Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend machines to mix or blend materials, such as chemicals, tobacco, liquids, color pigments, or explosive ingredients.
SOC: 51-9023.00
Common Job Titles
Blender
Machine Operator
Mixer
Mixer Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate mixing and blending machinery in production environments, following established procedures to process chemicals, pigments, and other materials.
Proficient
Hands-onHandle raw materials and finished products using forklifts, pallet movers, and manual equipment to load and unload mixing equipment.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate product quality and batch consistency by conducting quality control analysis using measuring instruments and comparing results to specifications.
Proficient
Hands-onInspect equipment, materials, and safety systems following regulatory requirements and facility safety protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply knowledge of production and processing principles to optimize batch timing, material sequencing, and equipment settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply operations monitoring techniques to assess machine performance and material flow during blending processes.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze equipment malfunctions and process deviations to troubleshoot and resolve operational issues independently.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical blending equipment using hand tools and power tools to ensure continuous operation.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret production specifications, batch formulas, and standard operating procedures to ensure accurate material measurements and mixing sequences.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in team coordination and training activities by communicating with supervisors and coworkers to maintain production schedules and safety standards.
Developing
Hands-onExecute documentation and record-keeping procedures using computers and operational databases to track batch data and production metrics.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
100,840
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,000. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,800. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,680. 75th percentile: U.S. $57,940. 90th percentile: U.S. $67,570. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,000
10% of workers earn the following or more
$67,570
Workers on average earn
$49,990
+ 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 Processing4.3/5
English Language3.0/5
Mechanical2.8/5
Public Safety and Security2.7/5
Mathematics2.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
