Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend continuous flow or vat-type equipment; filter presses; shaker screens; centrifuges; condenser tubes; precipitating, fermenting, or evaporating tanks; scrubbing towers; or batch stills. These machines extract, sort, or separate liquids, gases, or solids from other materials to recover a refined product. Includes dairy processing equipment operators.
SOC: 51-9012.00
Common Job Titles
Brewer
Cellar Worker
Machine Tender
Pulper Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate continuous flow equipment, filter presses, centrifuges, and batch stills in industrial production settings to extract, sort, or separate liquids, gases, or solids.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate process parameters and material quality against production standards using hydrometers, pH indicators, colorimeters, and refractometers during continuous operations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze process flow data, equipment readings, and quality control results to identify deviations and determine corrective actions during production runs.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate machine operation sequences and material handling workflows in multi-stage separation processes to maintain production efficiency and product recovery rates.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform routine maintenance on separation and filtration equipment using hand tools, grease guns, and diagnostic instruments to ensure optimal machine performance.
Developing
KnowledgeApply safety protocols and hazardous material handling procedures when operating fermenting tanks, evaporating equipment, and chemical processing systems.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, process diagrams, and standard operating procedures to set up and configure equipment for different separation and filtration operations.
Developing
Hands-onExecute troubleshooting procedures for malfunctioning processing equipment using diagnostic tools and mechanical knowledge to restore normal operations with minimal downtime.
Developing
MindsetEngage in collaborative communication with supervisors and coworkers to coordinate shift activities, report process irregularities, and share operational insights.
Developing
KnowledgeCompute material measurements, flow rates, and batch quantities using mathematical calculations and spreadsheet software to maintain accurate production records.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
54,200
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,810. 25th percentile: U.S. $41,830. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,500. 75th percentile: U.S. $61,350. 90th percentile: U.S. $75,860. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,810
10% of workers earn the following or more
$75,860
Workers on average earn
$53,830
+ 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 Processing3.8/5
Mechanical3.3/5
English Language3.1/5
Public Safety and Security2.9/5
Mathematics2.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
