Forming Machine Operator

Your Fit

Income

$45K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-1.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Forming Machine Operator?

A Forming Machine Operator is responsible for operating machines designed to shape and form metal or other materials. These operators set up, maintain, and operate machinery, ensuring products meet specific dimensions and quality standards.

Sample job titles:

Extruder Operator, Extrusion Operator, Machine Operator, Press Operator

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Forming Machine Operator.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a Forming Machine Operator earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$35K per year	$38K per year	$45K per year	$52K per year	$65K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $4.37K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Forming Machine Operator do?

Work environment

Forming Machine Operators typically work in manufacturing settings, such as factories or production plants. The environment can be noisy and may require wearing protective gear. The job often involves standing for long periods and may require working with heavy materials.

Quick task list

Sets up and operates forming machines according to production specifications.
Adjusts machine settings for different materials and sizes.
Inspects finished products for quality and adherence to specifications.
Performs routine machine maintenance and troubleshoots issues.
Adheres to safety guidelines and protocols.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Metal Forming: Specializing in shaping and forming metal parts and components.
Plastic Forming: Working with plastic materials to create various products.
Glass Forming: Specializing in forming glass items, requiring knowledge of glass properties.
Composite Material Forming: Working with composite materials used in various industries like aerospace.
Precision Forming: Focusing on high-precision components for specialized applications.

Description

Forming Machine Operators are integral to the manufacturing process, playing a key role in shaping raw materials into finished products. They must understand the properties of the materials they work with and how to adjust machine settings accordingly. Precision and attention to detail are crucial, as the specifications for each product must be met accurately.

Operators need a good understanding of mechanical systems to perform routine maintenance and identify any issues with the machinery. The ability to read blueprints or production diagrams is often necessary. This role requires a blend of technical skills and physical stamina, as operators may handle heavy materials and spend most of their shift on their feet.

Career advancement opportunities exist for those who gain experience and additional skills. Operators can move into supervisory roles, quality control, or even machine repair and maintenance positions.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a crucial role in the production of tangible goods.
Opportunities to work with various machinery and materials.
The satisfaction of mastering technical skills.
Potential for career advancement within manufacturing.

You might make a good Forming Machine Operator if you are...

Interested in how machines work and enjoy operating them.
Good at following detailed instructions and blueprints.
Physically capable of handling materials and standing for extended periods.
Detail-oriented, ensuring products meet quality standards.
Keen on working in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

Pros:

Steady work in the manufacturing sector.
Opportunities to develop specialized technical skills.
Satisfaction from creating physical products.

Cons:

Potentially repetitive tasks.
The noisy and busy environment of manufacturing plants.
Physical demands, including standing for long periods and handling heavy materials.

How to become a Forming Machine Operator

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Many operators receive on-the-job training, but additional technical education in machine operation can be beneficial. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in a manufacturing setting.

High school preparation

Courses:

Industrial arts or shop classes to learn about machinery and materials.
Mathematics for understanding machine operation and measurements.
Physical education to maintain fitness for the physical aspects of the job.
Technical drawing or drafting classes for blueprint reading.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Robotics club or similar groups for hands-on experience.
Part-time jobs or internships in manufacturing or related fields.
Volunteering in community projects that involve building or crafting.

Preparation after high school

Technical or vocational training in machine operation.
Apprenticeships in manufacturing to gain hands-on experience.
Certification programs for specific types of machinery.
Entry-level positions in manufacturing for practical experience.

More resources

National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) - Offers certifications and training resources in metalworking skills.
The Fabricators & Manufacturers Association, International (FMA) - Provides educational programs and industry resources for metal forming and fabricating.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Guidelines and training for safety in the workplace, particularly relevant for manufacturing settings.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.