Production · SOC 51-4081
Running multiple machine types demands broad physical skill and adaptability that current automation handles poorly in varied job shops.
Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
Timeline: Flexible manufacturing cells with robotic tending are growing, but the versatility required for job-shop multi-machine work will keep skilled operators in demand for 10+ years.
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$38,800 median pay
$45,130 median pay
$48,630 median pay
$36,000 median pay
$51,850 median pay
AI job-risk card
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is resilient on AIFear. Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is 24/100 (Resilient). Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
24 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Writing CNC programs for standard cutting operations, Computing gear dimensions and feeds from tables, Routine measurement of standard part dimensions. Harder to automate: Physical setup and tooling changeover across multiple machine types, Real-time defect detection by observation and feel, Positioning and securing varied workpieces manually, Responding to machine anomalies across different equipment.
Lean into Multi-machine CNC operation, Precision measurement and gauging, Blueprint and GD&T reading, Machine maintenance and troubleshooting, Lean manufacturing. Consider roles such as CNC Setup Technician or Manufacturing Cell Leader or Maintenance Technician (Machine Tools).
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.