A drilling and boring machine tool setter operates precision equipment that shapes metal and plastic parts. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You set up, operate, and maintain drilling and boring machines that cut holes and shapes into metal and plastic materials. You monitor machines during production runs, inspect finished parts for quality, and make adjustments to keep everything running smoothly. You read technical drawings and specifications, communicate with supervisors about production issues, and document your work. The role combines mechanical knowledge with attention to detail. You solve problems when machines need tweaking and keep detailed records of what you produce.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn a median of $49,080 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 20 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 400 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. You will learn on the job, starting with basic machine operation and moving toward setup and troubleshooting. Some employers offer formal training programs or apprenticeships that teach you the mathematics, mechanical principles, and production processes you need. You should be comfortable reading technical drawings and specifications. Building skills in monitoring equipment, critical thinking, and communication will help you advance into lead or supervisory roles.
Entry routes include direct hire with on-the-job training or formal apprenticeship programs. Since paths vary by employer and region, Pathly can map the drilling and boring machine tool setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic path that fits you with your counselor to map out the timeline and steps that fit your situation.
You do not need a license to work as a drilling and boring machine tool setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like working with your hands and solving practical problems. You are detail-oriented, comfortable with machines and technical processes, and prefer learning by doing rather than theory alone.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).