Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other Salary 2025: $45,950 Median, -9.5% Decline
Metal workers and plastic workers, all other earned a median annual salary of $45,950 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $22 per hour. The middle half of workers earned between $35,350 and $65,510, with the top 10% earning above that range. This catch-all occupation covers a variety of roles in metal and plastic fabrication, finishing, and assembly that don't fit standard classifications.
How much Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $45,950, with a mean annual wage of $48,580. That's below the all-occupation median of about $48,060, but pay varies widely by experience and location. Entry-level workers (10th percentile) earn around $35,350, while the most experienced (90th percentile) make up to $65,510.
Pay by state
Hawaii tops the list with an average salary of $78,000, nearly 60% above the national mean. Washington follows at $65,760, then Oklahoma ($65,040), Kentucky ($61,320), and New York ($60,740). On the lower end, Tennessee pays a mean of $36,770, Florida $36,040, and New Jersey $33,790 — well below the national median. Cost of living and local industry mix drive these differences.
How to become Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other
Most workers enter through on-the-job training, often starting as helpers or machine operators. High school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some technical schools and community colleges offer certificates in machining, welding, or plastics processing, which can improve job prospects. Industry certifications — like those from the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) — are valued but not mandatory.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for entry-level positions such as machine tender or assembler.
- Complete on-the-job training (typically a few months to a year).
- Consider a certificate from a trade school in metalworking or plastics.
- Pursue voluntary NIMS certification to advance.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 9.5% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 1,700 jobs each year due to automation and overseas competition. However, around 1,700 annual openings will still arise from workers retiring or leaving the occupation. Job seekers should focus on states with higher pay and more diverse manufacturing bases to improve their chances.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Metal Worker and Plastic Worker, All Other do?
This occupation covers a variety of tasks in metal and plastic fabrication, such as operating machinery, finishing parts, assembling products, and performing quality checks. Specific duties depend on the employer and industry.
Is Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other a good career?
It offers stable pay but limited growth: median $45,950, with a projected 9.5% employment decline over the next decade. Higher wages are possible in top-paying states like Hawaii or Washington.
How long does it take to become a Metal Worker and Plastic Worker, All Other?
Most workers learn on the job in a few months to a year. A high school diploma is required, and optional certificates can add 6–12 months of training.
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 Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other data.