Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers
O*NET 51-6091.00 · SOC 51-6091
Extruding and Forming Machine Setter is a risky career choice. Median pay is $46k a year with -3.3% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 1,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Set up extruding machines to produce synthetic fiber strands
- →Monitor spinneret nozzles for clogging during fiber extrusion
- →Adjust extrusion temperature and pressure to meet fiber specifications
- →Collect extruded fiber samples and check diameter measurements
- →Clear fiber breaks and rethread strands through machine guides
Education & How to Get In
Extruding and Forming Machine Setter roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as an Extruding and Forming Machine Setter? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Extruding and Forming Machine Setter involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Extruding and Forming Machine Setter?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Extruding and Forming Machine Setter Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers is projected to decline 3.3% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·41% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
- ·45% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Extruding and Forming Machine Setter make?
The median Extruding and Forming Machine Setter earns $46k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Extruding and Forming Machine Setter jobs?
Our model puts Extruding and Forming Machine Setter at 53 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 41% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; 45% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Extruding and Forming Machine Setter a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 3.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 1,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Extruding and Forming Machine Setter?
Most Extruding and Forming Machine Setter roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become an Extruding and Forming Machine Setter?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Extruding and Forming Machine Setter career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes