CNC Operator
Run computer-controlled machines that cut precise metal and plastic parts.
- $50,690
- A few months on the job
Mechanics, Maintenance & Manufacturing career
Multiple Machine Tool Operator
Also called: Machine Tool Operator · Machine Operator · Production Machinist · Cell Operator
What multiple machine tool operators do, what they earn, how long training takes and how to get started, with official BLS pay data and practical, job-level detail.
What does a multiple machine tool operator do?
Multiple machine tool setters, operators and tenders, metal and plastic, set up, operate or tend more than one type of cutting or forming machine tool or robot. The median pay is $47,180 per year (BLS, May 2025), most people train for about A few months on the job, and employment is projected to grow +0.6% from 2025–35.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
- Median pay$47,180$22.68/hour · May 2025
- Job growth+0.6%2025–35, little or no change
- Openings per year11,600Average, 2025–35
- Typical entry educationHigh school diploma or equivalentBLS classification
- Time to trainA few months on the jobTypical program length
- U.S. jobs127,100Employment, 2025
What multiple machine tool operators do
Multiple machine tool operators run work cells. They operate lathes, mills, drills, grinders and robots in one area, load and unload parts, check dimensions, change tools and keep several machines running.
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical. BLS projects little change.
Typical duties
- Run several machine types
- Load and unload parts
- Measure parts
- Change tools
- Adjust offsets
- Inspect quality
- Clean machines
Work environment and schedule
Operators work in machine shops and plants.
Schedule: Full time, often shifts.
A day in the life
- Check the cell.
- Start the lathe and mill.
- Measure parts.
- Change an insert.
See a full day in the life of a multiple machine tool operator →
Multiple Machine Tool Operator salary
Half of multiple machine tool operators earned more than $47,180 and half earned less in May 2025. Pay ranged from about $35,780 for the lowest 10% to $74,450 for the top 10%.
Full multiple machine tool operator pay scale and hourly rates →
How to become a multiple machine tool operator
- Finish high school
- Take machining classes
- Get hired
- Learn the cell
- Advance
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Step-by-step guide to becoming a multiple machine tool operator →
Skills and tools
Technical skills
- Machine operation
- Measurement
- Tool changes
- Offsets
- Blueprint reading
People skills
- Multitasking
- Attention to detail
- Reliability
- Focus
All multiple machine tool operator skills and tools →
Pros and cons
Pros
- Varied machines
- No degree needed
- Path to machinist
- Steady work
Cons
- Fast pace
- Noise
- Shift work
- Chips and coolant
Certifications and licenses
- NIMS credentials: Machining.
- Machining certificate: Community college.
- OSHA 10: Safety.
- Robot operator training: Helpful.
Career path
- Operator: Entry.
- Setup Operator: Setups.
- Machinist: Machining.
- Lead: Lead.
Learn the job before day one
Our Multiple Machine Tool Operator training (10 hours, $89.99) covers the role, 15+ key terms, step-by-step procedures such as run a multi-machine cell efficiently and adjust a tool offset, safety and how to land your first job.
Related careers
CNC Machinist
Set up and run computer-controlled machines that cut precision metal parts.
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Lathe Operator
Turn metal on a lathe to make shafts, bushings and round parts.
- $50,620
- A few months on the job
Milling Machine Operator
Cut slots, pockets and flat surfaces in metal with milling machines.
- $52,800
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Compare: Multiple Machine Tool Operator vs. CNC Operator · Multiple Machine Tool Operator vs. CNC Machinist · Multiple Machine Tool Operator vs. Lathe Operator · Multiple Machine Tool Operator vs. Milling Machine Operator
Multiple Machine Tool Operator FAQ
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects little change.
Can I become a machinist?
Yes.
How much does a multiple machine tool operator make?
The median annual wage for multiple machine tool operators was $47,180 ($22.68 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,780 and the highest 10% earned more than $74,450.
How long does it take to become a multiple machine tool operator?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a multiple machine tool operator?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
More multiple machine tool operator questions →
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-4081 (Multiple machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Multiple machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.