Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Guide 2025
The median annual salary for Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is $47,720, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With a mean wage of $49,480 (about $23 per hour), the typical range falls between $36,700 (10th percentile) and $63,710 (90th percentile). This occupation employs 60,840 workers nationwide.
How much Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn
Earnings vary by experience, location, and industry. The median wage of $47,720 means half of workers earn more and half earn less. Entry-level positions pay around $36,700, while experienced operators in the top 10% earn $63,710 or more. Pay is often hourly, with overtime common in manufacturing settings.
The highest-paying states include Rhode Island ($61,350), Vermont ($59,220), North Carolina ($53,330), Nebraska ($52,360), and Minnesota ($51,830). Lower-paying states are Florida ($39,730), Oklahoma ($38,820), and Idaho ($34,700).
- National median salary: $47,720
- Mean salary: $49,480 ($23.79/hr)
- 10th percentile: $36,700
- 90th percentile: $63,710
Pay by state
Location significantly affects earnings. The five highest-paying states for this role are Rhode Island ($61,350), Vermont ($59,220), North Carolina ($53,330), Nebraska ($52,360), and Minnesota ($51,830). On the other end, the lowest-paying states are Florida ($39,730), Oklahoma ($38,820), and Idaho ($34,700). These figures are the annual mean wages from the BLS.
How to become Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Most workers enter this occupation with a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is common, lasting several months. Some employers prefer vocational school or community college courses in machine operation, blueprint reading, or mathematics. No license is required, but certifications in safety or specific equipment can improve job prospects.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically a few months).
- Consider vocational training in machine operation.
- Gain experience in manufacturing or metalworking.
- Optional: obtain safety certifications (e.g., OSHA).
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 1.2% from 2024 to 2034, much slower than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 6,500 openings each year, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the field. Automation and increased productivity may limit growth, but replacement needs ensure steady opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
The mean hourly wage is $23.79, according to BLS data.
What education is needed to become an Extruding and Drawing Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender?
A high school diploma is typically required, along with on-the-job training.
What states pay the highest for this job?
Rhode Island ($61,350), Vermont ($59,220), and North Carolina ($53,330) are the top-paying states.
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 Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic data.