Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing: 2025 Salary Guide and Career Outlook
The median annual wage for woodworking machine setters, operators, and tenders (except sawing) is $43,380, with half of workers earning between $32,110 and $56,830, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The occupation employs about 61,420 people, and while overall employment is expected to decline 1.8% from 2024 to 2034, roughly 6,400 openings per year will arise from workers leaving the field.
How much Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing earn
Nationally, the mean hourly wage is about $21. The bottom 10% earn around $32,110 or less, and the top 10% earn $56,830 or more. Actual pay depends on experience, location, and the specific industry. Workers in specialized wood product manufacturing or furniture production may earn differently than those in other sectors.
Pay by state
Location affects earnings significantly. The highest-paying states for this occupation are Washington ($52,980), Minnesota ($51,540), Iowa ($51,200), New Jersey ($49,680), and Oregon ($49,480). On the lower end, workers in Oklahoma ($35,990), Tennessee ($35,290), and Texas ($33,840) earn considerably less. Regional demand and cost of living explain much of this variation.
How to become Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
Most workers enter the occupation with a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training. No formal postsecondary education is required, but trade schools or community colleges offer certificate programs in woodworking or cabinetmaking that can help. Key skills include attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and basic math for measurements. Some employers may require a brief apprenticeship or prior experience with power tools.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- On-the-job training lasting a few months to a year
- Optional: certificate in woodworking or cabinetmaking
- Develop mechanical skills and attention to detail
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline 1.8% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 1,100 jobs. Automation and imported wood products are reducing demand. Still, about 6,400 openings each year will come from workers retiring or moving to other occupations. Job prospects are best for those willing to relocate to higher-demand regions or who have advanced skills in CNC machine operation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for woodworking machine setters, operators, and tenders (except sawing)?
The national median salary is $43,380, with a mean of $43,570. Hourly, that's about $21. Pay ranges from $32,110 at the 10th percentile to $56,830 at the 90th.
Is there a demand for woodworking machine setters?
Employment is expected to decline by about 1.8% over the next decade, but roughly 6,400 job openings per year will exist due to workers leaving the field. Competition may be higher in declining regions.
What education is needed to become a woodworking machine setter?
A high school diploma is typically sufficient. Most training happens on the job. Certification from a trade school can help you stand out but is 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 Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing data.