Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form continuous filaments from synthetic materials, such as liquid polymer, rayon, and fiberglass.
Median pay: $46,350/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: -1.1% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 2,000 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.
• Set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form filaments from synthetic materials such as rayon, fiberglass, or liquid polymers.
• Press buttons to stop machines when processes are complete or when malfunctions are detected.
• Notify other workers of defects, and direct them to adjust extruding and forming machines.
• Observe machine operations, control boards, and gauges to detect malfunctions such as clogged bushings and defective binder applicators.
• Load materials into extruding and forming machines, using hand tools, and adjust feed mechanisms to set feed rates.
• Move controls to activate and adjust extruding and forming machines.
• Record details of machine malfunctions.
• Clean and maintain extruding and forming machines, using hand tools.
What's the median pay for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers?
The median pay for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers is $46,350 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers?
Employment for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers is projected to change -1.1% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers?
About 2,000 openings per year, on average, over the decade.