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Career Profile

Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

What they do:

Set up, operate, or tend milling or planing machines to mill, plane, shape, groove, or profile metal or plastic work pieces.

Also Called:

CNC Licensed Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Licensed Mill Operator), CNC Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator), CNC Mill Operator (Computerized Numerical Control Mill Operator), CNC Mill Set Up Operator (Computerized Numerical Control Mill Set Up Operator), Machine Operator, Machine Set Up Operator, Mill Operator, Miller, Milling Operator, Setup Man, CNC Licensed Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Licensed Mill Operator), CNC Mill Operator (Computer Numerical Control Mill Operator), CNC Mill Operator (Computerized Numerical Control Mill Operator), CNC Mill Set Up Operator (Computerized Numerical Control Mill Set Up Operator), Machine Operator, Machine Set Up Operator, Mill Operator, Miller, Milling Operator, Setup Man

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX Employment Data

*State data provided by O*NET & BLS
Compare State Data      Compare Metro Area Data   
$40,340
Starting Salary (2025)
$61,340
Median Salary (2025)
-14.4%
Projected Job Growth
130
TX Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Record production output.
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.
Position and secure workpieces on machines, using holding devices, measuring instruments, hand tools, and hoists.
Study blueprints, layouts, sketches, or work orders to assess workpiece specifications and to determine tooling instructions, tools and materials needed, and sequences of operations.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Self-Control
Persistence
Stress Tolerance
Initiative

What key skills are needed for this job?

Operations Monitoring
Operation and Control
Monitoring
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Quality Control Analysis

Expected Knowledge

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Production and Processing

Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Controlling Machines and Processes

Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings

Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 2

Some Preparation Needed

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • High school diploma 47%
  • Bachelor's degree 19%
  • Post-secondary certificate 15%
  • Less than high school 10%
  • Some college 9%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.