Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend machines that cut or slice materials, such as glass, stone, cork, rubber, tobacco, food, paper, or insulating material.
SOC: 51-9032.00
Common Job Titles
Cutter
Cutter Operator
Machine Operator
Paper Cutter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate cutting and slicing machines (CNC cutters, laser cutters, guillotines, and food slicing equipment) following production specifications and safety protocols in manufacturing environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess machine operations and output quality continuously monitoring processes to detect deviations from specifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate finished product dimensions and quality against specifications using precision measurement instruments (calipers, micrometers, rulers) to ensure compliance.
Proficient
Hands-onCalibrate cutting and slicing equipment settings adjusting blade depth, speed, and alignment to meet material specifications.
Developing
KnowledgeDiagnose machine malfunctions and operational issues troubleshooting mechanical and control system problems to minimize production downtime.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine maintenance and lubrication of cutting machinery using hand tools, cleaning equipment, and lubrication systems per manufacturer guidelines.
Developing
Hands-onHandle raw materials and finished products loading, unloading, and transporting materials using forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor systems.
Developing
KnowledgeApply production processing knowledge and mathematical calculations determining material yields, cut dimensions, and waste minimization strategies.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in safety protocols and teamwork coordination communicating with supervisors and peers to maintain safe and efficient production flow.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret work orders, production schedules, and equipment documentation reading and comprehending technical instructions to set up jobs correctly.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
47,540
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,890. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,540. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,700. 75th percentile: U.S. $52,000. 90th percentile: U.S. $60,430. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$34,890
10% of workers earn the following or more
$60,430
Workers on average earn
$46,420
+ 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 Processing3.5/5
Mathematics3.2/5
Mechanical3.1/5
English Language2.7/5
Administration and Management2.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
