Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic: 2025 Salary Guide and Career Outlook
The median pay for Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is $50,620 per year, or about $24 an hour. The bottom 10% earn $36,670, while the top 10% bring in $69,700, according to the latest BLS data. This occupation employs 16,710 people nationwide, but the future is uncertain: employment is projected to shrink 13.6% from 2024 to 2034.
How much Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn
The national mean annual wage is $52,490. Most workers earn between $36,670 and $69,700, meaning the middle half—the 25th to 75th percentile—falls in that range. Your pay can vary significantly by state and experience. The occupation includes workers who set up, operate, or tend lathes and turning machines that cut metal or plastic workpieces.
- Median annual wage: $50,620
- 10th percentile: $36,670
- 90th percentile: $69,700
- Mean hourly wage: $24.07
Pay by state
Colorado pays the most, with an average annual wage of $71,670. Maine comes next at $64,800, followed by Minnesota ($61,000), Massachusetts ($60,870), and California ($60,180). At the other end, Oregon averages $41,640, Tennessee $40,730, and Arkansas $39,060. Relocating to a higher-paying state can boost your income by thousands of dollars.
How to become Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is standard—new operators typically learn from experienced workers over several months. Vocational schools and community colleges offer certificate programs in machine tool technology or CNC operations, which can give you an edge. No specific license or certification is required, but credentials like NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) may improve job prospects.
- 1. Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- 2. Complete a vocational program in machining or CNC operations (optional but helpful).
- 3. Start as a helper or entry-level operator and learn on the job.
- 4. Consider earning NIMS certifications to advance.
Job outlook
Employment is expected to decline 13.6% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of roughly 2,300 jobs. However, about 1,500 openings per year are projected due to the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation. Automation and overseas competition are driving the decline, but skilled operators who can set up and program CNC machines will still be in demand.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender do?
These workers set up, operate, or tend lathes and turning machines that cut, shape, or finish metal or plastic workpieces. They may also monitor machine operations, adjust speeds and feeds, and inspect finished parts.
Is this job in demand in 2025?
No, it’s a declining occupation. The BLS projects a 13.6% drop in employment from 2024 to 2034, though about 1,500 new openings arise each year from turnover.
How long does it take to become a lathe operator?
You can start with a high school diploma and learn on the job in a few months. A vocational program typically takes 6 months to 2 years, but it’s not required.
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 Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic data.