Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Set up, operate, or tend forging machines to taper, shape, or form metal or plastic parts.

Median Annual Wage: $33,710

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (95%); Less than high school diploma (3%); Post-secondary certificate (1%)

Projected Growth: Decline (-3% or lower)

Related Job Titles: Process Technician; Machine Operator; Forge Operator; Hammer Operator; Header Set-Up Operator; Set Up Techncian; Blacksmith; Cold Header Operator; Forge Press Operator; Manipulator Operator

Browse Job Listings

Browse Schools

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

More Production Careers

  • Read work orders or blueprints to determine specified tolerances and sequences of operations for machine setup.
  • Start machines to produce sample workpieces, and observe operations to detect machine malfunctions and to verify that machine setups conform to specifications.
  • Remove dies from machines when production runs are finished.
  • Turn handles or knobs to set pressures and depths of ram strokes and to synchronize machine operations.
  • Confer with other workers about machine setups and operational specifications.
  • Repair, maintain, and replace parts on dies.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic.

Search Local Job Listings