SOC 51-4081
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ63/100
High Risk
US Employment
๐ฅ129,850
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$46K
$34K โ $73K
Projected Growth
๐-0.5%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค45/100
Moderate exposure
๐ก Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic face a risk score of 63/100 โ 19 points above the national average of 44. With only 45/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $46K. 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 63/100, Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like industrial robotics replacing manual assembly tasks are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 129,850 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions and quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Industrial robotics replacing manual assembly tasks
AI quality inspection via computer vision systems
Cobots handling repetitive material handling tasks
Automated CNC programming and machine operation
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions
Quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection
Setup and calibration of custom production runs
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
Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.
Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.
Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.
Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.
Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.
๐ป Technology Skills
Computer aided design CAD software
Electronic mail software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Spreadsheet software
Office suite software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Production and Processing
Mechanical
Mathematics
English Language
Design
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 | 51% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors | 25 | $62K | 61% |
| Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers | 33 | $68K | 75% |