Plating machine setters, operators, and tenders coat metal and plastic parts with protective or decorative finishes. The work is hands-on, in demand, and you can start without a four-year degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You set up, operate, and tend plating machines that apply coatings to metal and plastic components. You handle and move materials, monitor processes to catch problems early, and communicate with supervisors and coworkers about production needs. You make decisions to solve problems on the line, identify defects or quality issues, and control machines to keep them running smoothly. The work requires attention to detail, basic math skills, and understanding of chemistry and mechanical systems.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn a median of $43,960 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 14 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 2,500 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require some high school education or equivalent, but not a four-year degree. You typically start with on-the-job training at a manufacturing facility, where experienced workers teach you machine operation, safety protocols, and quality standards. Some employers offer formal apprenticeships or short training programs. You will build skills in monitoring equipment, reading technical instructions, active listening, and critical thinking as you work. Starting in entry-level roles helps you move into setter and operator positions.
Most people enter this field through direct hire and on-the-job training at manufacturing plants. If you are exploring whether this path fits your timeline and goals, Pathly can map the plating machine setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic path that fits you with your counselor to map out the steps and find local opportunities.
You do not need a license to work as a plating machine setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like hands-on work with machines and systems. You are practical, detail-oriented, and comfortable learning through doing. You work well in structured environments and take pride in keeping operations running smoothly.
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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).