Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Guide 2025
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn a national median salary of $46,330 per year, or about $22 an hour. The middle 80% of workers make between $35,760 and $65,510.
How much Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a mean annual wage of $48,430 for this occupation, with a typical range from $35,760 at the 10th percentile to $65,510 at the 90th. Hourly pay averages $22. Most workers are paid by the hour and may receive overtime for shifts beyond 40 hours.
Experience and location are the biggest factors driving pay. Entry-level positions often start near the 10th percentile, while senior operators in high-paying states can exceed $60,000.
Pay by state
Oregon tops the list at $53,680, followed by Maine ($51,820), Washington ($51,160), Colorado ($50,790), and Minnesota ($49,770). These states tend to have higher manufacturing wages or strong union presence.
Lower-paying states include Idaho ($39,580), Florida ($39,440), and New Mexico ($39,430). Note that cost-of-living differences may offset some of the dollar gaps.
How to become Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
This job typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Most training happens on the job, with new workers learning from experienced operators over several months. Some employers prefer candidates with vocational training in machine operation or metalworking.
Key skills include mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to read blueprints or work orders. Certification is not required but may help—programs like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) credential are industry-recognized. Physical stamina is important as jobs involve standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 pounds.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically 6-12 months).
- Consider a vocational certificate in machine tool technology.
- Learn to read blueprints and use precision measuring tools.
- Gain experience through entry-level operator roles.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 20,700 jobs. Despite the shrink, there will be roughly 14,400 openings per year on average, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Automation and offshoring are reducing demand, but the role will persist in smaller shops and specialty production.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly pay for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
The mean hourly wage is $22, according to BLS data.
Which state pays the highest salary for this job?
Oregon pays the most, with an average of $53,680 per year.
Is this job growing or declining?
Declining. The BLS projects a 12.1% decrease in employment from 2024 to 2034.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic data.