Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Set up, operate, or tend machines to saw, cut, shear, slit, punch, crimp, notch, bend, or straighten metal or plastic material.
SOC: 51-4031.00
Common Job Titles
Machine OperatorPress OperatorSaw OperatorSet-Up Operator
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
174,430
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,000 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $62,650 |
| Workers on average earn | $47,060 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical3.5/5
- Production and Processing3.2/5
- Mathematics3.0/5
- English Language2.8/5
- Design2.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Autodesk AutoCADMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WordSAP software
Technology Skills
Automated inventory softwareComputerized numerical control CNC softwareOperational databasesStriker Systems SS-Punch
Tools & Equipment
Abrasive wheelsAdjustable hand wrenchesAllen wrenchesAnvilsBench grindersBench lathesBlanking pressesC clamps