[Core] [67% incumbents] Measure and examine extruded products to locate defects and to check for conformance to specifications, adjusting controls as necessary to alter products.
  DWAs: Inspect metal, plastic, or composite products. | Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Determine setup procedures and select machine dies and parts, according to specifications.
  DWAs: Determine production equipment settings. | Select production equipment according to product specifications.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Start machines and set controls to regulate vacuum, air pressure, sizing rings, and temperature, and to synchronize speed of extrusion.
  DWAs: Adjust temperature controls of ovens or other heating equipment. | Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Reel extruded products into rolls of specified lengths and weights.
  DWAs: Package products for storage or shipment.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Install dies, machine screws, and sizing rings on machines that extrude thermoplastic or metal materials.
  DWAs: Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Change dies on extruding machines, according to production line changes.
  DWAs: Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Clean work areas.
  DWAs: Clean work areas.

[Core] [67% incumbents] Troubleshoot, maintain, and make minor repairs to equipment.
  DWAs: Diagnose equipment malfunctions. | Repair production equipment or tools. | Maintain production or processing equipment.

[Supplemental] [67% incumbents] Load machine hoppers with mixed materials, using augers, or stuff rolls of plastic dough into machine cylinders.
  DWAs: Load materials into production equipment.

[Supplemental] [67% incumbents] Replace worn dies when products vary from specifications.
  DWAs: Replace worn equipment components.

[Supplemental] [67% incumbents] Select nozzles, spacers, and wire guides, according to diameters and lengths of rods.
  DWAs: Select production equipment according to product specifications.

[Supplemental] [67% incumbents] Operate shearing mechanisms to cut rods to specified lengths.
  DWAs: Operate cutting equipment.

[Supplemental] [66% incumbents] Weigh and mix pelletized, granular, or powdered thermoplastic materials and coloring pigments.
  DWAs: Measure ingredients or substances to be used in production processes. | Mix substances to create chemical solutions.

[Supplemental] [66% incumbents] Test physical properties of products with testing devices such as acid-bath testers, burst testers, and impact testers.
  DWAs: Inspect metal, plastic, or composite products.

[Supplemental] [66% incumbents] Maintain an inventory of materials.
  DWAs: Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.

[Supplemental] [66% incumbents] Adjust controls to draw or press metal into specified shapes and diameters.
  DWAs: Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

--- SKILLS ---
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Monitoring (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Speaking (imp:3.00 lvl:2.50) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Reading Comprehension (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Listening (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Writing (imp:2.62 lvl:2.00) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Active Learning (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Mathematics (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Science (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Production and Processing (imp:4.04 lvl:4.20) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Mathematics (imp:3.50 lvl:2.94) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  English Language (imp:3.47 lvl:2.87) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Administration and Management (imp:2.76 lvl:2.88) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Computers and Electronics (imp:2.55 lvl:2.62) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Mechanical (imp:2.50 lvl:2.03) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.34 lvl:1.95) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:2.30 lvl:1.87) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Education and Training (imp:2.21 lvl:1.94) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.20 lvl:1.87) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Design (imp:2.09 lvl:1.63) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Administrative (imp:1.88 lvl:1.56) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Transportation (imp:1.74) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.69 lvl:1.17) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.64 lvl:0.91) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.47) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Telecommunications (imp:1.43) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Foreign Language (imp:1.42) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Chemistry (imp:1.38) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Law and Government (imp:1.31) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Physics (imp:1.29) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Communications and Media (imp:1.27 lvl:0.44) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.26) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  History and Archeology (imp:1.25) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.22) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.22) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Fine Arts (imp:1.21) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.20) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Building and Construction (imp:1.16) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Food Production (imp:1.08) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Psychology (imp:1.07) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Biology (imp:1.06) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Geography (imp:1.05) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an

--- ABILITIES ---
  Control Precision (imp:3.75 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.62 lvl:3.25) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Reaction Time (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.38 lvl:2.88) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Rate Control (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Near Vision (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Information Ordering (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Static Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Visualization (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Selective Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Stamina (imp:3.00 lvl:2.62) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Far Vision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Auditory Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.00 lvl:2.50) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.62) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Written Comprehension (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Oral Expression (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Category Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Response Orientation (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Depth Perception (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Number Facility (imp:2.50 lvl:2.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Time Sharing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.38 lvl:1.88) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.38 lvl:2.00) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Originality (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Written Expression (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Explosive Strength (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Peripheral Vision (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Sound Localization (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Night Vision (imp:1.75 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.75 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:4.66 lvl:5.19) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.25 lvl:3.83) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Getting Information (imp:4.00 lvl:3.43) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.00 lvl:3.91) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.95 lvl:3.83) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.93 lvl:4.08) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.90 lvl:4.19) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.88 lvl:3.91) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.82 lvl:5.24) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.71 lvl:4.11) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.61 lvl:3.41) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Processing Information (imp:3.41 lvl:3.63) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.39 lvl:2.45) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.35 lvl:3.77) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.32 lvl:4.04) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.25 lvl:3.44) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.23 lvl:3.32) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.21 lvl:2.81) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.17 lvl:2.96) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.15 lvl:3.52) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:3.13 lvl:2.63) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.06 lvl:2.71) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Working with Computers (imp:3.05 lvl:2.72) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.01 lvl:3.27) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Thinking Creatively (imp:2.90 lvl:3.45) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.89 lvl:2.11) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.87 lvl:2.82) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:2.66 lvl:2.25) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.62 lvl:2.64) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.60 lvl:1.93) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:2.58 lvl:2.76) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.27 lvl:2.17) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.26 lvl:1.92) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.26 lvl:1.68) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.14 lvl:2.08) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:1.96 lvl:1.22) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.91 lvl:1.45) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:1.82) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.61 lvl:0.95) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:1.56 lvl:0.77) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:1.49 lvl:0.77) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.41) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.06) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Dependability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:1.99) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.97) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.93) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Perseverance (imp:0.81) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Integrity (imp:0.74) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Adaptability (imp:0.66) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Control (imp:0.57) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.39) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Cooperation (imp:0.32) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.31) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Initiative (imp:0.16) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Sincerity (imp:0.04) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Optimism (imp:-0.04) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Empathy (imp:-0.20) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Humility (imp:-0.27) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Innovation (imp:-0.30) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.30) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.37) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.43) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Operation and Control (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.00 lvl:2.62) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Troubleshooting (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Time Management (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.75 lvl:2.38) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Repairing (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Persuasion (imp:2.38 lvl:1.88) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Instructing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.25 lvl:1.75) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Installation (imp:2.12 lvl:1.62) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Technology Design (imp:1.88 lvl:0.88) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Negotiation (imp:1.75 lvl:1.50) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.75 lvl:1.38) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:1.25) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Programming (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 60,840
  annual_median    : $47,720
  annual_pct10     : $36,700
  annual_pct25     : $40,450
  annual_pct75     : $56,840
  annual_pct90     : $63,710
  annual_mean      : $49,480
  hourly_median    : $22.94

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Rhode Island ($61,350)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($26,030)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.357x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (47 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:   58,050  median: $  47,840
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:    1,290  median: $  47,520
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      850  median: $  36,980
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:      540  median: $  57,810
  Construction                             emp:       70  median: $  49,610

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (5 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:   58,050  median: $  47,840
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:    1,290  median: $  47,520
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      850  median: $  36,980
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:      540  median: $  57,810
  Construction                             emp:       70  median: $  49,610

exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T23:07:02.886978Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Biomedical equipment technician (similarity: 0.1982)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomedical_equipment_technician
  QID: Q55605490
  Extract: A biomedical equipment technician (BMET) is an electro-mechanical technician that assembles, configures, maintains, and repairs medical equipment. In healthcare environments, BMETs often work with or officiate as a biomedical and/or clinical engineer, since the career field has no legal distinction 

  Title: List of United States Marine Corps MOS (similarity: 0.2881)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_Marine_Corps_MOS
  QID: Q6601850
  Extract: 
The United States Marine Corps uses a system of categorizing career fields called Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). All enlisted and officer Marines are assigned a four-digit code denoting their primary occupational field and specialty. Additional MOSs may be assigned through a combination of 

  Title: Diving team (similarity: 0.1978)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diving_team
  QID: Q60752851
  Extract: A diving team is a group of people who work together to conduct a diving operation. A characteristic of professional diving is the specification for minimum personnel for the diving support team. This typically specifies the minimum number of support team members and their appointed responsibilities

  Title: Electronics technician (United States Navy) (similarity: 0.2602)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronics_technician_(United_States_Navy)
  QID: Q5358483
  Extract: The United States Navy job rating of electronics technician (ET) is a designation given by the Bureau of Naval Personnel (BUPERS) to enlisted members who satisfactorily complete initial Electronics Technician "A" school training.

  Title: Aviation support equipment technician (similarity: 0.2735)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aviation_support_equipment_technician
  QID: Q4828677
  Extract: Aviation Support Equipment Technician is a United States Navy occupational rating. The United States Marine Corps currently maintains 3 separate aviation support equipment military occupational specialties. They are: 6071, 6072 aircraft maintenance support equipment hydraulic/ pneumatic structures m

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong confidence based on comprehensive O*NET data including detailed work activities, skills, and wage information from BLS OEWS May 2025. Education and industry distribution data provide clear career entry and market context.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T01:18:02.472703+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,950
tokens_output        : 4,446
cost_usd             : $0.048120
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No direct Wikipedia match found for this specialized manufacturing occupation. The role represents a specific subset of machine operation in metal and plastic processing that lacks comprehensive encyclopedic coverage.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Extruding and drawing machine setters, operators, and tenders work with specialized equipment to transform metal and plastic materials into specific shapes like tubes, rods, hoses, wire, bars, and structural components. These manufacturing professionals set up machines, monitor production processes, and ensure quality control throughout the extrusion and drawing operations. They combine technical skills with physical coordination to maintain production efficiency in manufacturing environments.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Operators begin their shift by determining setup procedures and selecting appropriate machine dies based on production specifications. They install dies, screws, and sizing rings on extrusion equipment, then start machines and adjust controls for vacuum, air pressure, temperature, and speed synchronization. Throughout production, they continuously monitor processes and inspect extruded products for defects and conformance to specifications. When quality issues arise, they troubleshoot equipment, replace worn dies, and make minor repairs to maintain production flow. They also load raw materials into machine hoppers, reel finished products into specified lengths and weights, and maintain clean work areas.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful machine operators possess strong attention to detail and dependability, as evidenced by the top work styles requiring careful monitoring and consistent performance. They excel at control precision and manual dexterity, with the physical coordination needed to manage multiple machine functions simultaneously. These workers are methodical problem-solvers who can quickly identify issues through problem sensitivity and react appropriately with good reaction time. The realistic work environment appeals to individuals who prefer hands-on technical work with tangible results, while the conventional aspects suit those comfortable with established procedures and quality standards.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent, with 84.7% of workers having this educational background according to O*NET data. Entry-level workers typically receive on-the-job training to learn specific machine operations, safety procedures, and quality control processes. Some employers prefer candidates with post-secondary certificates in manufacturing, mechanical technology, or related technical fields, representing 11.2% of the workforce. Physical abilities including trunk strength, manual dexterity, and near vision are essential for safe and effective job performance.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Experienced operators can advance to lead operator or supervisor roles, overseeing multiple machines or training new workers. Career progression may lead to positions in maintenance, quality assurance, or production planning within manufacturing operations. Some operators transition to related machine operator roles in cutting, molding, or forming operations, leveraging their transferable skills in operations monitoring and quality control. Advanced technical training can open pathways to manufacturing technician or process improvement specialist roles.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The occupation employs 60,840 workers nationally with a median annual wage of $47,720 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, ranging from $36,700 at the 10th percentile to $63,710 at the 90th percentile. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Rhode Island offering the highest median wage at $61,350 compared to Puerto Rico's $26,030, representing a 2.36x ratio. Manufacturing accounts for 95% of employment at 58,050 positions, with smaller concentrations in wholesale trade and administrative services. The concentration in manufacturing indicates stable demand tied to industrial production cycles, particularly in regions with strong plastics and metals processing industries.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
While machine setup and quality inspection tasks involving critical thinking and problem sensitivity remain largely human-dependent, routine monitoring activities face potential automation pressure. The emphasis on control precision and reaction time suggests that advanced sensors and automated control systems may supplement human operators, but the complex decision-making required for troubleshooting and die changes will likely preserve human roles in the near term.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [skill_overlap] Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles share identical top transferable skills in operations monitoring (3.5/3.6) and operation and control (3.4/3.5), indicating strong skill transferability.
    data: Operations Monitoring skill levels
    data: Operation and Control skill levels
    data: Metal and plastic material focus
  [riasec_cluster] Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4031.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both occupations share high realistic orientation (R:6.70) and conventional secondary traits, working with metal and plastic materials in manufacturing settings.
    data: RIASEC realistic orientation
    data: Metal and plastic processing
    data: Manufacturing environment
  [task_similarity] Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4081.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve controlling machines and processes (4.7 importance), inspecting equipment and materials (4.0 importance), and making decisions about production quality.
    data: Controlling Machines and Processes activity
    data: Inspecting Equipment activity
    data: Metal and plastic focus
  [knowledge_overlap] Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-9041.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require identical production and processing knowledge (4.0+ importance) and similar mathematics knowledge for quality control and measurement tasks.
    data: Production and Processing knowledge
    data: Mathematics knowledge
    data: Extrusion processes
  [wage_band] Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4023.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations fall within Job Zone 2 requiring minimal preparation and focus on metal and plastic processing in manufacturing environments.
    data: Job Zone 2 classification
    data: Manufacturing sector employment
    data: Metal and plastic materials

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['extruder', 'extrusion', 'drawing machine', 'metal forming', 'plastic forming', 'die setting', 'machine operator', 'thermoplastic']
  exclude_keywords : ['injection molding', 'blow molding', 'welding', 'machinist', 'assembly']
  title_patterns   : ['extruder operator', 'extrusion operator', 'draw machine operator', 'extruding press operator', 'forming machine operator']
  common_variations: ['extruder', 'extrusion operator', 'drawing machine operator', 'metal extruder', 'plastic extruder', 'wire drawing operator', 'tube extruder', 'profile extruder']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['equipment', 'tendency', 'others', 'production', 'materials', 'control', 'products', 'principles', 'machine', 'machines', 'quality', 'procedures', 'includes', 'objects', 'monitoring', 'operations', 'ideas', 'specifications', 'physical', 'problem']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
equipment                  48  0.01736  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:48%  dwas:31%  wikipedia:12%
tendency                   42  0.01519  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     38  0.01374  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
production                 25  0.00904  dwas                 dwas:36%  onet_dimensions:32%  inference:28%
materials                  18  0.00651  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:56%  onet_tasks:22%  dwas:11%
control                    18  0.00651  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:33%
products                   17  0.00615  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:29%  onet_dimensions:29%  dwas:29%
principles                 16  0.00579  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
machine                    15  0.00543  inference            inference:60%  onet_tasks:27%  onet_dimensions:13%
machines                   13  0.00470  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:54%  onet_tasks:23%  inference:23%
quality                    13  0.00470  inference            inference:54%  onet_dimensions:46%
procedures                 12  0.00434  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:25%  onet_tasks:8%
includes                   12  0.00434  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
objects                    12  0.00434  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
monitoring                 11  0.00398  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  inference:27%
operations                 11  0.00398  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:55%  inference:45%
ideas                      11  0.00398  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
specifications             10  0.00362  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:30%  dwas:30%  onet_dimensions:20%
physical                   10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:60%  inference:30%  onet_tasks:10%
problem                    10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  inference:30%
techniques                 10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
human                      10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  inference:30%
quickly                    10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
activities                 10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
body                       10  0.00362  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
problems                    9  0.00326  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
performance                 9  0.00326  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
resources                   9  0.00326  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
standards                   9  0.00326  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
orientation                 9  0.00326  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
speed                       8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  onet_tasks:12%  inference:12%
metal                       8  0.00289  dwas                 dwas:50%  onet_tasks:25%  inference:25%
needs                       8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
rules                       8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
tools                       8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  dwas:38%
events                      8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needed                      8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
performing                  8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
actions                     8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
developing                  8  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%