Forging machine setters, operators, and tenders control and monitor the equipment that shapes metal and plastic into finished parts. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma. Here is what the job involves, what skills matter most, and how to get in.
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You control machines that heat and shape metal and plastic into parts for manufacturing. Your day involves setting up equipment, monitoring processes to catch problems early, handling and moving materials safely, and communicating with supervisors and coworkers about production needs. You read specifications, identify defects, and perform the physical work of keeping machines running smoothly. The role combines technical knowledge of production processes with attention to detail and the ability to respond quickly when something goes wrong.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn a median of $49,030 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 19 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 600 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Start with a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers prefer candidates who understand basic math and mechanical concepts. Look for entry-level positions as a machine operator or tender at manufacturing facilities. On the job, you will learn how to set up equipment, read technical drawings, and monitor production. Some employers offer formal training programs. As you gain experience, you can move into setter roles that involve more complex setup and troubleshooting. Continuing to develop your technical skills and knowledge of machinery keeps you competitive.
Most people enter this field directly from high school or through entry-level operator roles. If you are deciding between jumping in right away and pursuing additional training first, Pathly can map the forging machine setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic path that fits you with your counselor to map out a timeline that fits your situation.
You are drawn to hands-on work with machines and systems. You like solving practical problems, paying close attention to how things work, and taking responsibility for keeping equipment running.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
Start with a quick quiz and assessments that surface your personality, your EQ, and what really motivates you, so your next steps are built around who you actually are.
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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).