Metal and plastic machine workers
🤍 Save CareerMetal and plastic machine workers play a vital role in the US economy, with 1.0 million professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $46,800, with projected growth of -7% through 2034 (Decline).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — -7% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Metal and plastic machine workers
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Metal and plastic machine workers
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core of the work is physical and requires presence on a factory floor to handle materials and maintain machinery. However, AI and advanced automation are increasingly capable of handling the digital aspects of the job, such as CNC programming, machine monitoring, and quality inspection, which is already contributing to a projected decline in employment.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With -7% projected growth and a median salary of $46,800, this career offers stable prospects. The large employment base (1.0M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires see how to become one. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in metal and plastic machine workers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Metal and plastic machine workers make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Metal and plastic machine workers is $46,800 per year. Entry-level positions start around $28,080, while experienced professionals can earn up to $74,880 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Metal and plastic machine workers?▼
Entry typically requires see how to become one. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is no degree required.
What degree do you need to be a Metal and plastic machine workers?▼
Most Metal and plastic machine workers positions require no degree required. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Metal and plastic machine workers?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Metal and plastic machine workers. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Metal and plastic machine workers do on a daily basis?▼
As a metal and plastic machine worker, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Metal and plastic machine workers a good career in 2026?▼
With -7% projected growth and a median salary of $46,800, this career offers stable prospects. The large employment base (1.0M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at -7%, which is declining. The median salary of $46,800 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Metal and plastic machine workerss?▼
Metal and plastic machine workers has an AI automation risk score of 40/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Metal and plastic machine workers?▼
Anyone interested in metal and plastic machine workers who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Metal and plastic machine workers Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Metal and plastic machine workers matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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