SOC 51-4192
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ57/100
Elevated
US Employment
๐ฅ5,610
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$62K
$40K โ $93K
Projected Growth
๐-5.4%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค22/100
Low exposure
๐ก Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic face a risk score of 57/100 โ 13 points above the national average of 44. With only 22/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $62K ($16K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 57/100, Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like predictive maintenance reducing manual inspection roles are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 5,610 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions and coordinating workflow across diverse production teams to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Predictive maintenance reducing manual inspection roles
Industrial robotics replacing manual assembly tasks
AI quality inspection via computer vision systems
Automated CNC programming and machine operation
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions
Coordinating workflow across diverse production teams
Quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection
Handling non-standard materials and configurations
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Mark curves, lines, holes, dimensions, and welding symbols onto workpieces, using scribes, soapstones, punches, and hand drills.
Plan locations and sequences of cutting, drilling, bending, rolling, punching, and welding operations, using compasses, protractors, dividers, and rules.
Fit and align fabricated parts to be welded or assembled.
Locate center lines and verify template positions, using measuring instruments such as gauge blocks, height gauges, and dial indicators.
Plan and develop layouts from blueprints and templates, applying knowledge of trigonometry, design, effects of heat, and properties of metals.
๐ป Technology Skills
Computer aided design CAD software
Procedure management software
Inventory management software
Spreadsheet software
Office suite software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Mathematics
Design
Mechanical
Production and Processing
Engineering and Technology
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 59% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors | 25 | $62K | 69% |
| Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers | 33 | $68K | 78% |