Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood
Sawing machine setters, operators, and tenders set up and run machines that cut wood into specific sizes and shapes for construction, furniture, and other wood products. They work in sawmills, woodworking shops, and manufacturing facilities. Some operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment that cuts wood automatically based on programmed specifications.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against sawing machine setters, operators, and tenders, wood and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Workers spend their shift monitoring sawing machines, feeding wood into equipment, and checking that cuts meet required dimensions. They may adjust machine settings, change saw blades, and remove finished pieces. Setup work involves programming CNC machines or adjusting conventional saws before production runs begin. Regular maintenance tasks like cleaning and lubricating equipment are part of the routine. Most work occurs on the production floor in a workshop environment.
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 would do well in this work if you prefer practical, hands-on tasks and like working with machines and tools. People who thrive here tend to be detail-oriented and systematic, following established procedures and specifications carefully, which fits a conventional work style.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $50,160 | $52,680 | $53,460 | 100 |
| Washington | $46,370 | $51,940 | $60,630 | 1,720 |
| Minnesota | $47,050 | $51,330 | $58,390 | 500 |
| Connecticut | $41,430 | $51,150 | $58,270 | 110 |
| Oregon | $45,190 | $49,740 | $55,380 | 2,010 |
| Montana | $43,130 | $49,090 | $55,820 | 280 |
| Idaho | $42,330 | $48,350 | $57,550 | 700 |
| Iowa | $43,420 | $48,090 | $49,510 | 240 |
| California | $39,660 | $47,390 | $55,020 | 3,230 |
| Massachusetts | $45,480 | $47,210 | $64,440 | 60 |
| Maryland | $39,800 | $47,060 | $125,830 | 130 |
| Colorado | $42,090 | $47,030 | $48,600 | 350 |
All 46 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Operator Certification — Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association
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 sawing machine setters, operators, and tenders, wood and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-7041.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.