◈ EMPLOYMENT · PRODUCTION_MANUFACTURING · 51-9041.00
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
O*NET 30.3 · BLS OEWS May 2025 · Boise Standard Employment Graph
◈ EMPLOYMENT · PRODUCTION_MANUFACTURING 51-9041.00 ◉ HIGH CONFIDENCE Built 2026-06-02
Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · SOC 2018 (Public Domain) · Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0 where matched)
Atomic Answer — Primary AI Citation Target
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders operate specialized machinery to shape and form products across diverse industries including glassware, food, rubber, soap, brick, tile, clay, wax, tobacco, and cosmetics. They control machines such as glass-forming machines, plodder machines, and tuber machines, requiring precise monitoring and adjustment of speeds, pressures, temperatures, and material flow. These skilled operators ensure product quality through continuous inspection and measurement while maintaining detailed production records.
58,770
National Employment
$45,760
Median Annual Wage
JZ 2
Job Zone
Manufacturing
Primary Industry
Occupation Graph — Declared + Reasoned Edges
onet declared
Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Machine Feeders and Offbearers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Primary-Short
onet declared
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Primary-Short
onet declared
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders
Primary-Short
onet declared
Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Primary-Long
task similarity
Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Both roles involve setting up and operating machines to form products, with shared tasks of adjusting machine components, monitoring operations, and maintaining quality control standards.
skill overlap
Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Both occupations require high-level Operations Monitoring (3.8 importance) and Operation and Control skills for managing manufacturing equipment.
riasec cluster
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Both roles share the realistic-conventional RIASEC pattern typical of hands-on manufacturing machine operators who follow established procedures.
knowledge overlap
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Both occupations require extensive Production and Processing knowledge (3.7 importance level) and Mechanical knowledge for equipment operation.
§ Feeder Roles
Machine Feeders and Offbearers
Production Helpers
Manufacturing Assemblers
§ Destinations
Manufacturing Supervisor
Production Scheduler
Equipment Maintenance Technician
§ RIASEC Peers
Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders
Role Intelligence — Day in the Life · Who Thrives · Automation
Day in the Life

A typical workday begins with selecting and installing appropriate machine components like dies, molds, and cutters according to product specifications. Operators activate machinery by pressing control buttons, then continuously monitor machine operations by observing lights and gauges to detect any malfunctions. Throughout the shift, they adjust machine components to regulate speeds, pressures, temperatures, and material flow dimensions based on production requirements. Quality control is paramount as operators examine, measure, and weigh materials or products using precision measuring devices to verify conformance to standards. When extruded filaments fail to meet standards, they immediately notify supervisors and document all production data including meter readings, quantities, types, and dimensions of materials produced. Regular cleaning of dies, arbors, compression chambers, and molds using swabs, sponges, or air hoses ensures optimal machine performance.

Who Thrives

Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate exceptional attention to detail and dependability, as evidenced by the top work styles requiring careful monitoring and quality control. The high importance of perceptual speed, reaction time, and arm-hand steadiness indicates those with strong psychomotor abilities and manual dexterity succeed in operating complex machinery. The realistic and conventional RIASEC profile suggests people who prefer working with tangible objects, following established procedures, and solving practical problems in structured environments. Those with good mechanical aptitude, comfort with technology tools like Microsoft Excel and SAP software, and the ability to work independently while maintaining consistent communication with supervisors and peers will find satisfaction in this hands-on manufacturing role.

Automation Outlook

While some routine monitoring tasks may become increasingly automated through advanced sensors and control systems, the role's emphasis on manual dexterity, problem-solving, and quality judgment provides moderate protection from automation. The need for human operators to handle machine setup, component installation, and complex troubleshooting when malfunctions occur suggests continued demand for skilled workers who can adapt to evolving technology.

Market Intelligence — BLS OEWS May 2025
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, the occupation employs 58,770 workers with a median annual wage of $45,760, ranging from $34,630 at the 10th percentile to $63,450 at the 90th percentile. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Maine offering the highest wages at $57,990 compared to Puerto Rico's lowest at $23,330, representing a 2.49x ratio. Manufacturing dominates employment with 54,340 positions (92.5% of total), followed distantly by Administrative and Support Services (2,400) and Wholesale Trade (1,350). The concentration in manufacturing reflects the essential role these operators play in diverse production processes across industries from food processing to construction materials.
$34,630
10th
$38,360
25th
$45,760
Median
$52,580
75th
$63,450
90th
Highest Paying State
Maine
$57,990 median
Geographic Dispersion
2.486x
highest / lowest median
Manufacturing 54,340 emp $46,220
Administrative and Support and Waste Manageme 2,400 emp $31,110
Wholesale Trade 1,350 emp $43,290
Transportation and Warehousing 230 emp $49,010
Retail Trade 90 emp $38,060
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics May 2025 ↗ · Public Domain · US Government
Skills + Knowledge — O*NET 30.3 Scored Dimensions
§ Essential Skills (importance 1-5)
Monitoring 3.4
Speaking 3.1
Reading Comprehension 3.0
Active Listening 3.0
Critical Thinking 3.0
Writing 2.8
Active Learning 2.6
Mathematics 2.1
Learning Strategies 2.1
Science 1.8
§ Knowledge Domains (importance 1-5)
Production and Processing 3.7
Mechanical 3.5
Computers and Electronics 3.1
Mathematics 2.9
Engineering and Technology 2.9
Food Production 2.8
English Language 2.8
Public Safety and Security 2.8
Education and Training 2.7
Administration and Management 2.6
Source: O*NET 30.3 Database ↗ · CC BY 4.0
RIASEC Interest Profile + Personality Fit — O*NET 30.3
R
Realistic
6.54
TOP FIT
I
Investigative
2.23
TOP FIT
A
Artistic
1.28
S
Social
1.04
E
Enterprising
1.25
C
Conventional
4.30
TOP FIT
§ Who Thrives
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate exceptional attention to detail and dependability, as evidenced by the top work styles requiring careful monitoring and quality control. The high importance of perceptual speed, reaction time, and arm-hand steadiness indicates those with strong psychomotor abilities and manual dexterity succeed in operating complex machinery. The realistic and conventional RIASEC profile suggests people who prefer working with tangible objects, following established procedures, and solving practical problems in structured environments. Those with good mechanical aptitude, comfort with technology tools like Microsoft Excel and SAP software, and the ability to work independently while maintaining consistent communication with supervisors and peers will find satisfaction in this hands-on manufacturing role.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Career Interest Types ↗ · Scale: OI Occupational Interests 1-7
Tasks + Detailed Work Activities — O*NET 30.3
Activate machines to shape or form products, such as candy bars, light bulbs, balloons, or insulation panels.
Supplemental 105% of incumbents
Operate metal or plastic forming equipme
Monitor machine operations and observe lights and gauges to detect malfunctions.
Core 104% of incumbents
Monitor equipment operation to ensure pr
Turn controls to adjust machine functions, such as regulating air pressure, creating vacuums, and adjusting coolant flow.
Core 104% of incumbents
Adjust equipment controls to regulate co
Clean dies, arbors, compression chambers, and molds, using swabs, sponges, or air hoses.
Core 104% of incumbents
Clean production equipment.
Select and install machine components, such as dies, molds, and cutters, according to specifications, using hand tools and measuring devices.
Supplemental 104% of incumbents
Select production equipment according toMount attachments or tools onto producti
Adjust machine components to regulate speeds, pressures, and temperatures, and amounts, dimensions, and flow of materials or ingredients.
Core 103% of incumbents
Adjust equipment controls to regulate flAdjust temperature controls of ovens or Operate metal or plastic forming equipme
Press control buttons to activate machinery and equipment.
Core 103% of incumbents
Operate metal or plastic forming equipme
Examine, measure, and weigh materials or products to verify conformance to standards, using measuring devices such as templates, micrometers, or scales.
Core 103% of incumbents
Inspect metal, plastic, or composite proWeigh finished products.Measure dimensions of completed products
Notify supervisors when extruded filaments fail to meet standards.
Core 103% of incumbents
Notify others of equipment repair or mai
Record and maintain production data, such as meter readings, and quantities, types, and dimensions of materials produced.
Core 103% of incumbents
Record operational or production data.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Task Statements + DWA Mappings ↗ · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
◈ Software Tools — O*NET 30.3 · Hot Technology + In Demand Flagged
Microsoft Excel
Spreadsheet software
HOT
Microsoft Office software
Office suite software
HOT
Microsoft Outlook
Electronic mail software
HOT
Microsoft Word
Word processing software
HOT
Operational databases
Data base user interface and query softw
Production scheduling software
Materials requirements planning logistic
SAP software
Enterprise resource planning ERP softwar
HOT
Source: O*NET 30.3 Software Skills ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Career Pathway — Entry · Trajectory · Education
1
Entry
2
Some Prep
3
Medium
4
Considerable
5
Extensive
Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little trainin
Most positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent, with 78.2% of workers having this education level according to O*NET data. Post-secondary certificates in relevant technical fields like engineering technologies, construction trades, or precision production represent 9.1% of the workforce and can provide competitive advantages. On-the-job training typically covers machine operation, safety procedures, quality control standards, and company-specific production processes, with Job Zone 2 indicating very little to some preparation is needed for entry.
Experienced operators can advance to lead operator or supervisor positions, taking responsibility for training new workers and coordinating production activities. Some workers transition to machine maintenance and repair roles, leveraging their deep understanding of equipment operation and troubleshooting. Others may pursue specialized roles in quality control, production planning, or move into related machine operator positions in different industries that utilize similar forming and shaping processes.
High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for 78.2%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for trai 9.1%
Some College Courses 7.8%
First Professional Degree - awarded for compl 3.9%
Less than a High School Diploma 0.7%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) 0.3%
Source: O*NET 30.3 Education + Job Zones ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Live Job Feed — Active Postings
Live Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders job postings populate here as the crawler feeds data. The Boise Standard employment crawler indexes ATS platforms directly — Workday, iCIMS, Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby, Taleo — and normalizes every posting to the O*NET ontology.

Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
Browse Production Manufacturing Feed → Submit Open Position →
◈ SEMANTIC MANIFOLD — MULTI-SOURCE WORD FREQUENCY FINGERPRINT
Top 40 terms across five provenance layers: O*NET Tasks · O*NET Dimensions · DWAs · Wikipedia · Inference · Stop words removed · Deterministic · Constitutional Law III
equipment tendency others production materials products control machines machine principles standards objects quality includes tools procedures forming monitoring ideas operators
§ Full Frequency Ranking — 40 terms
TERM COUNT FREQ BAR SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
equipment 50 0.0158
dwas 48% onet dimensi 46%
tendency 42 0.0133
onet dimensi 100%
others 40 0.0127
onet dimensi 95% dwas 2%
production 30 0.0095
dwas 37% onet dimensi 27%
materials 29 0.0092
onet dimensi 34% onet tasks 28%
products 26 0.0082
onet tasks 38% dwas 35%
control 20 0.0063
onet dimensi 60% inference 35%
machines 18 0.0057
onet tasks 39% onet dimensi 39%
machine 17 0.0054
inference 53% onet tasks 35%
principles 16 0.0051
onet dimensi 100%
standards 13 0.0041
onet dimensi 62% inference 23%
objects 13 0.0041
onet dimensi 92% inference 8%
quality 12 0.0038
onet dimensi 50% inference 50%
includes 12 0.0038
onet dimensi 100%
tools 11 0.0035
onet dimensi 45% dwas 36%
procedures 11 0.0035
onet dimensi 73% inference 18%
forming 11 0.0035
dwas 45% inference 36%
monitoring 11 0.0035
onet dimensi 73% inference 27%
ideas 11 0.0035
onet dimensi 100%
operators 11 0.0035
inference 73% wikipedia 27%
hand 10 0.0032
onet dimensi 70% onet tasks 20%
problems 10 0.0032
onet dimensi 90% inference 10%
techniques 10 0.0032
onet dimensi 100%
activities 10 0.0032
onet dimensi 90% inference 10%
body 10 0.0032
onet dimensi 100%
molds 9 0.0028
onet tasks 56% dwas 22%
specifications 9 0.0028
dwas 44% onet tasks 22%
material 9 0.0028
onet dimensi 33% wikipedia 33%
processing 9 0.0028
onet dimensi 44% onet tasks 22%
needs 9 0.0028
onet dimensi 89% dwas 11%
BOISE STANDARD — FINE-TUNING RECORD · Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
51-9041.00 · 8 QA pairs · jsonl · O*NET 30.3 + BLS OEWS
How many Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are currently employed in the United States?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, there are 58,770 workers employed in this occupation nationwide.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
What is the median annual wage for this occupation and what wage range covers the middle 80% of earners?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025, the median annual wage is $45,760. The 10th percentile earns $34,630 and the 90th percentile earns $63,450, representing the middle 80% of wage distribution.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
Which state offers the highest median wages for this occupation and how much higher is it than the national median?
Maine offers the highest median wages at $57,990 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, which is $12,230 above the national median of $45,760—approximately 27% higher.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
What are the primary industry sectors hiring machine setters and operators, and which offers the strongest employment outlook?
Manufacturing, Administrative and Support Services, and Wholesale Trade are the top hiring sectors. Manufacturing dominates employment; however, Administrative and Support Services shows growth potential for specialized roles requiring technical certification.
market_intel Bundle data - TOP INDUSTRIES
What educational pathways can a high school graduate take to advance in this field?
High school graduates typically enter directly; progression comes through post-secondary certificates in machine operation, engineering technology, or precision production (9.1% of workforce hold these), positioning workers for supervisory roles or specialized equipment positions.
career_advice O*NET education distribution data
Which technical skills are most critical for succeeding in this occupation and why?
Perceptual speed, rate control, and reaction time (all rated 3.8) are most critical because operators must detect material defects, adjust machine parameters precisely, and respond immediately to equipment malfunctions to prevent product waste and safety incidents.
career_advice O*NET abilities data
How does the Extruding and Forming Machine Setters occupation compare to related Paper Goods Machine Setters in terms of employment and wage potential?
Extruding and Forming Machine Setters employ 58,770 workers with a $45,760 median wage. Related roles like Paper Goods Machine Setters are separate specializations with different material focus; career mobility exists between these Primary-Short related occupations.
comparative BLS OEWS May 2025O*NET related occupations
What personality traits and work styles differentiate successful operators from underperformers in this role?
Attention to detail (2.2 importance), dependability (2.1), and cautiousness (1.8) are distinguishing work styles. Successful operators exhibit exceptional focus on quality control and reliability; those lacking these traits struggle with precision requirements and safety protocol compliance.
comparative O*NET work styles data
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 51-9041.00 · minted 2026-06-02T16:18:30Z · Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · BS: https://boisestandard.org/employment/51-9041-extruding_forming_pressing_and_compacting_machine_setters_operators_and_tenders
Boise Standard — Employment Intelligence
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Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 51-9041.00 · Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders 7 source blocks · click to expand
O*NET Identity onetonline.org ↗ · O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · retrieved 2026-06-02
[('onet_soc_code', '51-9041.00'), ('soc_code', '51-9041'), ('title', 'Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders'), ('vertical', 'production_manufacturing'), ('job_zone', '2'), ('job_zone_name', 'Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed'), ('job_zone_exp', 'Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For e'), ('description', 'Set up, operate, or tend machines, such as glass-forming machines, plodder machines, and tuber machines, to shape and form products such as glassware, food, rubber, soap, brick, tile, clay, wax, tobacco, or cosmetics.'), ('bundle_version', '1'), ('built_at', '2026-06-02T16:18:30Z')]
O*NET Task Statements (26 tasks, 0 emerging) O*NET 30.3 Task Statements · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
[Supplemental] [105% incumbents] Activate machines to shape or form products, such as candy bars, light bulbs, balloons, or insulation panels.
  DWAs: Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

[Core] [104% incumbents] Monitor machine operations and observe lights and gauges to detect malfunctions.
  DWAs: Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.

[Core] [104% incumbents] Turn controls to adjust machine functions, such as regulating air pressure, creating vacuums, and adjusting coolant flow.
  DWAs: Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.

[Core] [104% incumbents] Clean dies, arbors, compression chambers, and molds, using swabs, sponges, or air hoses.
  DWAs: Clean production equipment.

[Supplemental] [104% incumbents] Select and install machine components, such as dies, molds, and cutters, according to specifications, using hand tools and measuring devices.
  DWAs: Select production equipment according to product specifications. | Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Adjust machine components to regulate speeds, pressures, and temperatures, and amounts, dimensions, and flow of materials or ingredients.
  DWAs: Adjust equipment controls to regulate flow of production materials or products. | Adjust temperature controls of ovens or other heating equipment. | Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Press control buttons to activate machinery and equipment.
  DWAs: Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Examine, measure, and weigh materials or products to verify conformance to standards, using measuring devices such as templates, micrometers, or scales.
  DWAs: Inspect metal, plastic, or composite products. | Weigh finished products. | Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Notify supervisors when extruded filaments fail to meet standards.
  DWAs: Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Record and maintain production data, such as meter readings, and quantities, types, and dimensions of materials produced.
  DWAs: Record operational or production data.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Review work orders, specifications, or instructions to determine materials, ingredients, procedures, components, settings, and adjustments for extruding, forming, pressing, or compacting machines.
  DWAs: Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements. | Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements. | Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Synchronize speeds of sections of machines when producing products involving several steps or processes.
  DWAs: Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

[Core] [103% incumbents] Move materials, supplies, components, and finished products between storage and work areas, using work aids such as racks, hoists, and handtrucks.
  DWAs: Move products, materials, or equipment between work areas.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Couple air and gas lines to machines to maintain plasticity of material and to regulate solidification of final products.
  DWAs: Connect supply lines to production equipment or tools.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Pour, scoop, or dump specified ingredients, metal assemblies, or mixtures into sections of machine prior to starting machines.
  DWAs: Load materials into production equipment.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Remove materials or products from molds or from extruding, forming, pressing, or compacting machines, and stack or store them for additional processing.
  DWAs: Stack finished items for further processing or shipment. | Remove workpieces from molds.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Feed products into machines by hand or conveyor.
  DWAs: Feed materials or products into or through equipment.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Measure arbors and dies to verify sizes specified on work tickets.
  DWAs: Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Complete work tickets, and place them with products.
  DWAs: Mark products, workpieces, or equipment with identifying information. | Record production information.

[Supplemental] [103% incumbents] Disassemble equipment to repair it or to replace parts, such as nozzles, punches, and filters.
  DWAs: Disassemble equipment for maintenance or repair.

[Core] [102% incumbents] Clear jams, and remove defective or substandard materials or products.
  DWAs: Remove products or workpieces from production equipment. | Clear equipment jams.

[Supplemental] [102% incumbents] Measure, mix, cut, shape, soften, and join materials and ingredients, such as powder, cornmeal, or rubber to prepare them for machine processing.
  DWAs: Measure ingredients or substances to be used in production processes. | Cut industrial materials in preparation for fabrication or processing. | Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.

[Supplemental] [102% incumbents] Swab molds with solutions to prevent products from sticking.
  DWAs: Apply parting agents or other solutions to molds.

[Supplemental] [102% incumbents] Install, align, and adjust neck rings, press plungers, and feeder tubes.
  DWAs: Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.

[Supplemental] [101% incumbents] Remove molds, mold components, and feeder tubes from machinery after production is complete.
  DWAs: Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment. | Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.

[Supplemental] [98% incumbents] Send product samples to laboratories for analysis.
  DWAs: Send information, materials or documentation.
O*NET Scored Dimensions — Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, Work Activities O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · domain_source: Incumbent/Analyst/Machine Learning
--- SKILLS ---
  Monitoring (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Speaking (imp:3.12 lvl:2.38) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Listening (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Writing (imp:2.75 lvl:2.38) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Active Learning (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Mathematics (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Science (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Production and Processing (imp:3.67 lvl:3.72) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Mechanical (imp:3.55 lvl:3.25) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Computers and Electronics (imp:3.13 lvl:3.05) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Mathematics (imp:2.92 lvl:2.75) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.85 lvl:2.81) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Food Production (imp:2.84 lvl:2.30) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  English Language (imp:2.83 lvl:2.50) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.79 lvl:2.43) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Education and Training (imp:2.73 lvl:2.64) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Administration and Management (imp:2.60 lvl:2.80) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Chemistry (imp:2.55 lvl:2.50) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Administrative (imp:2.44 lvl:1.44) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Physics (imp:2.33 lvl:2.06) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:2.30 lvl:1.87) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Design (imp:2.23 lvl:2.08) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Telecommunications (imp:2.08 lvl:1.24) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.06 lvl:1.38) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Communications and Media (imp:2.04 lvl:1.59) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Transportation (imp:2.01 lvl:1.34) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.91 lvl:1.12) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Building and Construction (imp:1.91 lvl:1.68) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.91 lvl:1.20) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Biology (imp:1.82 lvl:1.48) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Psychology (imp:1.82 lvl:1.31) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.81 lvl:1.12) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Foreign Language (imp:1.78 lvl:1.28) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.67) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Geography (imp:1.66) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Law and Government (imp:1.60 lvl:1.03) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.59) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  History and Archeology (imp:1.47) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Fine Arts (imp:1.41) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.33) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r

--- ABILITIES ---
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.75 lvl:3.75) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Rate Control (imp:3.75 lvl:3.12) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Reaction Time (imp:3.75 lvl:3.75) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.62 lvl:3.25) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  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
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Near Vision (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Information Ordering (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Control Precision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Far Vision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Auditory Attention (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Oral Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Visualization (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Selective Attention (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Static Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Stamina (imp:3.12 lvl:2.50) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Response Orientation (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Depth Perception (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Written Expression (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  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:2.38) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Time Sharing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  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:1.88) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.25 lvl:1.75) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Originality (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Number Facility (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Sound Localization (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Night Vision (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:4.42 lvl:5.09) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Getting Information (imp:4.09 lvl:3.60) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.09 lvl:4.39) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.08 lvl:4.15) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.99 lvl:3.51) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.93 lvl:3.54) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.92 lvl:3.94) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.87 lvl:3.23) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Processing Information (imp:3.86 lvl:3.79) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.85 lvl:4.92) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.84 lvl:4.10) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Working with Computers (imp:3.66 lvl:3.01) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.44 lvl:3.56) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.42 lvl:3.04) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.36 lvl:3.66) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.35 lvl:3.13) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.27 lvl:3.24) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.16 lvl:2.84) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:3.05 lvl:2.77) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.01 lvl:2.48) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.01 lvl:2.58) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.01 lvl:3.39) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:2.90 lvl:3.11) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Thinking Creatively (imp:2.86 lvl:2.97) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.81 lvl:2.74) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.80 lvl:2.66) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.77 lvl:2.51) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.67 lvl:2.42) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.66 lvl:2.45) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:2.65 lvl:2.11) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.62 lvl:2.54) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.60 lvl:2.41) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.53 lvl:1.88) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.38 lvl:1.85) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.35 lvl:1.98) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.19 lvl:1.84) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:1.93 lvl:1.48) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:1.87 lvl:1.21) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.68 lvl:1.19) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:1.56 lvl:1.03) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:1.50 lvl:1.06) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.19) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.14) — 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:1.82) — 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.
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.93) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.77) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Perseverance (imp:0.77) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Integrity (imp:0.76) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Self-Control (imp:0.75) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.48) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Adaptability (imp:0.44) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Cooperation (imp:0.39) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Initiative (imp:0.17) — 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
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:-0.06) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Optimism (imp:-0.13) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Empathy (imp:-0.16) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.23) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Innovation (imp:-0.24) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Humility (imp:-0.42) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.56) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.63) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.75 lvl:3.75) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Operation and Control (imp:3.75 lvl:3.62) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Troubleshooting (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.88 lvl:2.12) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.88 lvl:2.25) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Coordination (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Repairing (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Time Management (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Instructing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.38) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.12 lvl:1.62) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Persuasion (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Operations Analysis (imp:2.00 lvl:1.00) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Installation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Negotiation (imp:1.75 lvl:1.50) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Technology Design (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Programming (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
BLS OEWS May 2025 — 58,770 employed nationally bls.gov/oes ↗ · Public Domain · US Government · retrieved 2026-06-02
--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 58,770
  annual_median    : $45,760
  annual_pct10     : $34,630
  annual_pct25     : $38,360
  annual_pct75     : $52,580
  annual_pct90     : $63,450
  annual_mean      : $47,260
  hourly_median    : $22.00

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Maine ($57,990)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($23,330)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.486x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (46 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:   54,340  median: $  46,220
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:    2,400  median: $  31,110
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:    1,350  median: $  43,290
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:      230  median: $  49,010
  Retail Trade                             emp:       90  median: $  38,060
  Construction                             emp:       80  median: $  39,860
  Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting emp:       70  median: $       0
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:       60  median: $  43,770

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (8 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:   54,340  median: $  46,220
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:    2,400  median: $  31,110
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:    1,350  median: $  43,290
  Transportation and Warehousing           emp:      230  median: $  49,010
  Retail Trade                             emp:       90  median: $  38,060
  Construction                             emp:       80  median: $  39,860
  Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting emp:       70  median: $       0
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:       60  median: $  43,770
Wikipedia — no exact match (0 words) N/A ↗ · CC BY-SA 4.0
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         : 2026-06-02T23:22:31.635589Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: MakerBot (similarity: 0.1304)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MakerBot
  QID: Q1673617
  Extract: MakerBot Industries, LLC was an American desktop 3D printer manufacturer company headquartered in New York City. It was founded in January 2009 by Bre Pettis, Adam Mayer, and Zach "Hoeken" Smith to build on the early progress of the RepRap Project. It was acquired by Stratasys in June 2013. As of Ap

  Title: Compression molding (similarity: 0.2718)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compression_molding
  QID: Q940262
  Extract: Compression molding is a method of molding in which a precise quantity of molding compound containing thermosetting or elastomeric resin called a charge is placed in the bottom half of a heated mold cavity, then flows to fill the cavity as the 2 sides of the mold are pressed together. The heat cause

  Title: 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée (similarity: 0.2321)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1902_eruption_of_Mount_Pel%C3%A9e
  QID: Q386230
  Extract: The 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée was a volcanic eruption on the island of Martinique in the Lesser Antilles Volcanic Arc of the eastern Caribbean, which was one of the deadliest eruptions in recorded history. Eruptive activity began on 23 April as a series of phreatic eruptions from the summit of Mo

  Title: Wilson loop (similarity: 0.1263)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilson_loop
  QID: Q206552
  Extract: In quantum field theory, Wilson loops are gauge invariant operators arising from the parallel transport of gauge variables around closed loops. They encode all gauge information of the theory, allowing for the construction of loop representations which fully describe gauge theories in terms of these

  Title: Dewatering screw press (similarity: 0.2642)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewatering_screw_press
  QID: Q5268104
  Extract: A dewatering screw press is a screw press that separates liquids from solids. A screw press can be used in place of a belt press, centrifuge, or filter paper. It is a simple, slow moving device that accomplishes dewatering by continuous gravitational drainage. Screw presses are often used for materi
Claude Inference — claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · confidence:high · $0.0504 inferred_at: 2026-06-04T02:22:52 UTC · Boise Standard inference pipeline v1.0
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 covering tasks, skills, abilities, and work activities. BLS wage data provides reliable market intelligence. Related occupations clearly defined with logical skill and knowledge overlaps.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T02:22:52.145154+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,993
tokens_output        : 4,608
cost_usd             : $0.050375
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No exact Wikipedia match found for this specific manufacturing occupation. The semantic neighbors include compression molding, which relates to one of the forming processes these operators may work with.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders operate specialized machinery to shape and form products across diverse industries including glassware, food, rubber, soap, brick, tile, clay, wax, tobacco, and cosmetics. They control machines such as glass-forming machines, plodder machines, and tuber machines, requiring precise monitoring and adjustment of speeds, pressures, temperatures, and material flow. These skilled operators ensure product quality through continuous inspection and measurement while maintaining detailed production records.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
A typical workday begins with selecting and installing appropriate machine components like dies, molds, and cutters according to product specifications. Operators activate machinery by pressing control buttons, then continuously monitor machine operations by observing lights and gauges to detect any malfunctions. Throughout the shift, they adjust machine components to regulate speeds, pressures, temperatures, and material flow dimensions based on production requirements. Quality control is paramount as operators examine, measure, and weigh materials or products using precision measuring devices to verify conformance to standards. When extruded filaments fail to meet standards, they immediately notify supervisors and document all production data including meter readings, quantities, types, and dimensions of materials produced. Regular cleaning of dies, arbors, compression chambers, and molds using swabs, sponges, or air hoses ensures optimal machine performance.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role demonstrate exceptional attention to detail and dependability, as evidenced by the top work styles requiring careful monitoring and quality control. The high importance of perceptual speed, reaction time, and arm-hand steadiness indicates those with strong psychomotor abilities and manual dexterity succeed in operating complex machinery. The realistic and conventional RIASEC profile suggests people who prefer working with tangible objects, following established procedures, and solving practical problems in structured environments. Those with good mechanical aptitude, comfort with technology tools like Microsoft Excel and SAP software, and the ability to work independently while maintaining consistent communication with supervisors and peers will find satisfaction in this hands-on manufacturing role.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent, with 78.2% of workers having this education level according to O*NET data. Post-secondary certificates in relevant technical fields like engineering technologies, construction trades, or precision production represent 9.1% of the workforce and can provide competitive advantages. On-the-job training typically covers machine operation, safety procedures, quality control standards, and company-specific production processes, with Job Zone 2 indicating very little to some preparation is needed for entry.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Experienced operators can advance to lead operator or supervisor positions, taking responsibility for training new workers and coordinating production activities. Some workers transition to machine maintenance and repair roles, leveraging their deep understanding of equipment operation and troubleshooting. Others may pursue specialized roles in quality control, production planning, or move into related machine operator positions in different industries that utilize similar forming and shaping processes.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, the occupation employs 58,770 workers with a median annual wage of $45,760, ranging from $34,630 at the 10th percentile to $63,450 at the 90th percentile. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Maine offering the highest wages at $57,990 compared to Puerto Rico's lowest at $23,330, representing a 2.49x ratio. Manufacturing dominates employment with 54,340 positions (92.5% of total), followed distantly by Administrative and Support Services (2,400) and Wholesale Trade (1,350). The concentration in manufacturing reflects the essential role these operators play in diverse production processes across industries from food processing to construction materials.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
While some routine monitoring tasks may become increasingly automated through advanced sensors and control systems, the role's emphasis on manual dexterity, problem-solving, and quality judgment provides moderate protection from automation. The need for human operators to handle machine setup, component installation, and complex troubleshooting when malfunctions occur suggests continued demand for skilled workers who can adapt to evolving technology.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [task_similarity] Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4072.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve setting up and operating machines to form products, with shared tasks of adjusting machine components, monitoring operations, and maintaining quality control standards.
    data: Shared work activities of Controlling Machines and Processes (4.4 importance)
    data: Similar machine setup and component installation tasks
    data: Common quality inspection and measurement responsibilities
  [skill_overlap] Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4023.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both occupations require high-level Operations Monitoring (3.8 importance) and Operation and Control skills for managing manufacturing equipment.
    data: Operations Monitoring skill importance 3.8
    data: Operation and Control skill importance 3.8
    data: Shared mechanical knowledge requirements
  [riasec_cluster] Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-9032.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles share the realistic-conventional RIASEC pattern typical of hands-on manufacturing machine operators who follow established procedures.
    data: Realistic RIASEC score of 6.54
    data: Conventional RIASEC score of 4.30
    data: Job Zone 2 preparation level
  [knowledge_overlap] Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (51-9196.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations require extensive Production and Processing knowledge (3.7 importance level) and Mechanical knowledge for equipment operation.
    data: Production and Processing knowledge importance 3.7
    data: Mechanical knowledge importance 3.5
    data: Similar equipment monitoring requirements
  [career_pathway] Machine Feeders and Offbearers (53-7063.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Machine Feeders and Offbearers represents a natural entry point into machine operation roles, with potential progression to more complex machine setter and operator positions.
    data: Lower Job Zone 1 preparation requirement
    data: Related manufacturing environment
    data: Transferable machine operation experience

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['extruding', 'forming', 'pressing', 'compacting', 'machine setter', 'machine operator', 'machine tender', 'production operator']
  exclude_keywords : ['supervisor', 'manager', 'engineer', 'technician', 'maintenance']
  title_patterns   : ['*Machine Setter*', '*Machine Operator*', '*Machine Tender*', '*Press Operator*', '*Forming Machine*']
  common_variations: ['Extruding Machine Operator', 'Forming Machine Setter', 'Press Operator', 'Compacting Machine Tender', 'Production Machine Operator', 'Manufacturing Machine Setter', 'Molding Machine Operator', 'Shaping Machine Tender']
Semantic Manifold — 40 terms · 5 provenance layers employment_word_extractor.py · sources: onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference · Constitutional Law III
total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['equipment', 'tendency', 'others', 'production', 'materials', 'products', 'control', 'machines', 'machine', 'principles', 'standards', 'objects', 'quality', 'includes', 'tools', 'procedures', 'forming', 'monitoring', 'ideas', 'operators']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
equipment                  50  0.01582  dwas                 dwas:48%  onet_dimensions:46%  onet_tasks:4%
tendency                   42  0.01329  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     40  0.01266  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:95%  dwas:2%  inference:2%
production                 30  0.00949  dwas                 dwas:37%  onet_dimensions:27%  inference:27%
materials                  29  0.00918  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:34%  onet_tasks:28%  dwas:24%
products                   26  0.00823  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:38%  dwas:35%  onet_dimensions:19%
control                    20  0.00633  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:60%  inference:35%  onet_tasks:5%
machines                   18  0.00570  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:39%  onet_dimensions:39%  inference:22%
machine                    17  0.00538  inference            inference:53%  onet_tasks:35%  onet_dimensions:12%
principles                 16  0.00506  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
standards                  13  0.00411  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  inference:23%  onet_tasks:15%
objects                    13  0.00411  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  inference:8%
quality                    12  0.00380  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  inference:50%
includes                   12  0.00380  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
tools                      11  0.00348  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:45%  dwas:36%  onet_tasks:9%
procedures                 11  0.00348  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  inference:18%  onet_tasks:9%
forming                    11  0.00348  dwas                 dwas:45%  inference:36%  onet_tasks:18%
monitoring                 11  0.00348  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  inference:27%
ideas                      11  0.00348  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
operators                  11  0.00348  inference            inference:73%  wikipedia:27%
hand                       10  0.00316  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  onet_tasks:20%  inference:10%
problems                   10  0.00316  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
techniques                 10  0.00316  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
activities                 10  0.00316  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
body                       10  0.00316  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
molds                       9  0.00285  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:56%  dwas:22%  inference:22%
specifications              9  0.00285  dwas                 dwas:44%  onet_tasks:22%  onet_dimensions:22%
material                    9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:33%  wikipedia:33%  inference:22%
processing                  9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:44%  onet_tasks:22%  dwas:22%
needs                       9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  dwas:11%
resources                   9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
quickly                     9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
orientation                 9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
operate                     9  0.00285  dwas                 dwas:56%  onet_dimensions:33%  inference:11%
identifying                 9  0.00285  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  dwas:11%
operations                  8  0.00253  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  onet_tasks:12%  inference:12%
adjust                      8  0.00253  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:38%  dwas:38%  onet_dimensions:12%
devices                     8  0.00253  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  onet_tasks:25%  inference:12%
press                       8  0.00253  wikipedia            wikipedia:75%  onet_tasks:25%
performance                 8  0.00253  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 51-9041.00 · built 2026-06-02 · Sources declared above are authoritative originals. This page synthesizes but does not replace them. Every claim traceable. Full provenance. Constitutional Law I.
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