Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Set up, operate, or tend drilling machines to drill, bore, ream, mill, or countersink metal or plastic work pieces.
Median pay: $49,080/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -19.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 400 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Verify conformance of machined work to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, micrometers, or fixed or telescoping gauges.
• Study machining instructions, job orders, or blueprints to determine dimensional or finish specifications, sequences of operations, setups, or tooling requirements.
• Move machine controls to lower tools to workpieces and to engage automatic feeds.
• Verify that workpiece reference lines are parallel to the axis of table rotation, using dial indicators mounted in spindles.
• Establish zero reference points on workpieces, such as at the intersections of two edges or over hole locations.
• Change worn cutting tools, using wrenches.
• Select and set cutting speeds, feed rates, depths of cuts, and cutting tools, according to machining instructions or knowledge of metal properties.
• Position and secure workpieces on tables, using bolts, jigs, clamps, shims, or other holding devices.
What's the median pay for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
The median pay for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is $49,080 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
Employment for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is projected to change -19.6% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
About 400 openings per year, on average, over the decade.