Operate or tend bonding machines that use adhesives to join items for further processing or to form a completed product. Processes include joining veneer sheets into plywood; gluing paper; or joining rubber and rubberized fabric parts, plastic, simulated leather, or other materials.
SOC: 51-9191.00
Common Job Titles
Coater Operator
Glue Line Operator
Machine Operator
Utility Worker
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate adhesive bonding machines including hot melt applicators, edge gluers, and spray glue systems in production environments, following operational protocols to join materials such as veneer, paper, rubber, and plastics.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform machine monitoring and process adjustments continuously throughout production runs to maintain optimal bonding conditions and material flow.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess product quality and adhesive bond integrity by inspecting finished items against production specifications and quality standards.
Proficient
Hands-onHandle materials and workpieces during loading, positioning, and unloading operations to ensure proper alignment for adhesive application.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply troubleshooting procedures to diagnose and resolve machine malfunctions, adhesive flow issues, and bonding defects during production.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and minor repairs on bonding equipment using hand tools and mechanical knowledge to minimize downtime and ensure machine reliability.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret production specifications, work orders, and machine settings to configure bonding parameters including adhesive temperature, pressure, and application patterns.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate adhesive feeders, pumps, and control systems to regulate adhesive flow rates and distribution across multiple application points.
Developing
MindsetEngage with supervisors and team members to communicate production status, quality issues, and equipment needs effectively.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate knowledge of adhesive chemistry and material properties when selecting appropriate bonding methods for different substrates including wood, plastic, rubber, and paper products.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
12,170
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,290. 25th percentile: U.S. $36,420. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,210. 75th percentile: U.S. $52,060. 90th percentile: U.S. $60,420. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,290
10% of workers earn the following or more
$60,420
Workers on average earn
$45,670
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing4.0/5
Mechanical3.7/5
English Language3.4/5
Mathematics3.0/5
Customer and Personal Service3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
