Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
Woodworking machine setters, operators, and tenders run equipment like drill presses, lathes, shapers, routers, and sanders to shape and finish wood products. They work in woodworking shops, furniture factories, and manufacturing facilities, following specifications and adjusting machines to produce parts that meet required dimensions and quality standards.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against woodworking machine setters, operators, and tenders, except sawing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves setting up machines according to job specifications, loading wood stock, and running equipment to cut, shape, or sand pieces. Operators monitor machines during operation, measure finished parts to ensure accuracy, and make adjustments as needed. They maintain machines, keep work areas clean, and may operate computer numerically controlled equipment. Tasks repeat across different jobs and materials throughout the week.
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 do well in this work if you're practical and detail-oriented, preferring to work with your hands and follow established procedures. You're comfortable with repetitive tasks, have mechanical aptitude, and take satisfaction in producing accurate, finished products according to specifications.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $47,610 | $52,980 | $58,980 | 1,250 |
| Minnesota | $48,720 | $51,540 | $57,980 | 710 |
| Iowa | $49,460 | $51,200 | $57,470 | 1,100 |
| New Jersey | $38,020 | $49,680 | $68,100 | 410 |
| Oregon | $47,270 | $49,480 | $56,680 | 2,120 |
| Nebraska | $44,640 | $49,190 | $49,190 | 490 |
| Michigan | $43,320 | $47,680 | $49,040 | 5,250 |
| Louisiana | $43,010 | $47,170 | $52,920 | 400 |
| Connecticut | $39,450 | $47,140 | $50,630 | 150 |
| Colorado | $36,590 | $46,500 | $55,430 | 440 |
| Vermont | $42,900 | $46,480 | $49,050 | 200 |
| Maryland | $39,020 | $46,470 | $52,000 | 420 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Machining Level I - Turning I (Chucking Skills) — 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 woodworking machine setters, operators, and tenders, except sawing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-7042.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.