Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic Salary Guide 2025: $49,030 Median Pay
Forging machine setters, operators, and tenders earn a median annual salary of $49,030, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates. The mean wage is $51,680, or about $24 an hour. The typical range spans from $36,800 at the 10th percentile to $68,720 at the 90th percentile. With employment at 8,930 nationwide, this is a relatively small occupation concentrated in manufacturing states.
How much Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn
The median annual salary for forging machine setters, operators, and tenders is $49,030. Half of workers earn between $36,800 (10th percentile) and $68,720 (90th percentile). The average hourly wage is roughly $24. Pay varies by experience, industry, and location.
Top earners in the 90th percentile pull in over $68,720, often with years of experience or in high-paying states. Entry-level positions start near $36,800.
Pay by state
Earnings differ sharply by location. The five highest-paying states for this occupation are: Oregon ($69,210), Oklahoma ($61,720), Michigan ($61,620), Nebraska ($60,460), and Wisconsin ($60,310). These states have strong manufacturing bases, especially in automotive and aerospace forging.
At the low end, wages are considerably lower: West Virginia ($37,390), Kentucky ($36,110), and New Jersey ($35,630). Workers in these states earn roughly $15,000 less than the national median.
How to become Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Most workers enter this field with a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is the primary path, often lasting several months to a year. Some technical schools offer certificates in metalworking or machine operation, but a degree is not required.
Key steps include: applying for entry-level positions at forging plants, receiving safety and machine-specific training, and learning to read blueprints and use measuring tools. Certification through the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) can improve advancement prospects.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a steep decline of -18.9% for this occupation from 2024 to 2034, meaning about 1,690 jobs lost. Despite the drop, roughly 600 openings per year will arise from workers leaving the field or retiring. Automation and overseas competition are major factors reducing demand. However, experienced setters and those in specialized forging (e.g., aerospace) may face better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for forging machine setters, operators, and tenders?
The national median salary is $49,030 per year, with a typical range of $36,800 to $68,720.
How do I become a forging machine setter, operator, or tender?
A high school diploma and on-the-job training are the most common entry points. Technical certificates can help, but a degree is not required.
Is forging machine operator a dying career?
The BLS projects a -18.9% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, so overall jobs are decreasing. However, about 600 openings per year will still occur due to turnover and retirements.
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 Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic data.