Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
SOC Code: 51-4035
Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastics remove workpieces from machines, and check to ensure that they conform to specifications, using measuring instruments such as microscopes, gauges, calipers, and micrometers. This career typically requires moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year). With an AI-proof score of 84.2/100, this role has high resilience to automation. Key skills include Operations Monitoring, Operations Monitoring, Operation and Control.
AI-Proof Score: 84.2 — Very High
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Median Salary
$48,310
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Job Growth
-14.4%
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Training Time
Moderate-term on-the-job training (months to 1 year)
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Job Zone
Zone 2 / 5
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Training Cost
~$5,000
Key Skills
- •Operations Monitoring
- •Operation and Control
- •Monitoring
- •Critical Thinking
- •Active Listening
- •Quality Control Analysis
Common Tasks
- ✓Remove workpieces from machines, and check to ensure that they conform to specifications, using measuring instruments such as microscopes, gauges, calipers, and micrometers.
- ✓Verify alignment of workpieces on machines, using measuring instruments such as rules, gauges, or calipers.
- ✓Move controls to set cutting specifications, to position cutting tools and workpieces in relation to each other, and to start machines.
- ✓Observe milling or planing machine operation, and adjust controls to ensure conformance with specified tolerances.
- ✓Select and install cutting tools and other accessories according to specifications, using hand tools or power tools.
Training & Resources
Why AI-Proof?
- ✅Requires hands-on physical presence and dexterity
- ✅Demands human empathy, judgment, and trust
- ✅Operates in unpredictable, variable environments
- ✅Social and regulatory barriers to full automation