Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Rolling machine setters, operators, and tenders operate industrial machinery that shapes metal and plastic by rolling, bending, flattening, or reducing material thickness. They work in manufacturing plants, steel mills, and fabrication facilities, adjusting machine settings, monitoring operations, and ensuring products meet specifications.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against rolling machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing machines by installing dies and adjusting rollers to required specifications, then running production batches while monitoring output for quality and consistency. Operators record measurements, make minor adjustments to pressure and speed settings, and perform routine maintenance. They may troubleshoot equipment problems, clean machines between runs, and coordinate with supervisors on production schedules and material changes.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you're detail-oriented and prefer structured, rule-based tasks over open-ended problem-solving. You're comfortable with repetitive mechanical work, follow procedures carefully, and take satisfaction in producing consistent, measurable results.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $58,700 | $72,670 | $72,670 | 660 |
| Pennsylvania | $54,330 | $66,970 | $69,240 | 3,070 |
| Vermont | $53,420 | $66,240 | $78,810 | 40 |
| Washington | $47,070 | $63,560 | $88,450 | 350 |
| Maryland | $58,430 | $61,470 | $64,410 | 310 |
| New York | $51,370 | $60,890 | $85,340 | 420 |
| Minnesota | $51,640 | $60,620 | $65,310 | 50 |
| Connecticut | $43,910 | $60,610 | $63,360 | 150 |
| New Hampshire | $48,700 | $60,570 | $73,040 | 40 |
| Colorado | $48,140 | $57,500 | $61,750 | 110 |
| Illinois | $47,610 | $54,180 | $62,590 | 550 |
| Alabama | $50,240 | $53,380 | $73,880 | 1,710 |
All 39 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Screw Machine Operations II (Single Spindle) — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against rolling machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4023.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.