Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing

Set up, operate, or tend woodworking machines, such as drill presses, lathes, shapers, routers, sanders, planers, and wood nailing machines. May operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment.

SOC: 51-7042.00

Common Job Titles

Cabinet MakerMachine OperatorSanderSander Operator
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

63,350

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$30,920
10% of workers earn the following or more$54,340
Workers on average earn$42,290

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Mechanical3.3/5
  • Production and Processing3.0/5
  • Mathematics2.9/5
  • Public Safety and Security2.5/5
  • Building and Construction2.4/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe AcrobatAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopApple macOSAutodesk AutoCADDassault Systemes SolidWorksMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordOracle Java

Technology Skills

AS/400 DatabaseComputer aided design and drafting CADD softwareComputer aided manufacturing CAM softwareComputerized numerical control CNC softwareDassault Systemes CATIAEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareInventory control softwareMicrosoft operating system

Tools & Equipment

Adjustable hand wrenchesAutomatic panel sawsBench grindersBiscuit jointersBoring barsBoring machinesCase clampsClaw hammers