SOC 51-9192
Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders
Risk Score
⚠️59/100
Elevated
US Employment
👥13,890
Total workers
Median Wage
💰$41K
$33K – $57K
Projected Growth
📈+3.6%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
🤖53/100
Moderate exposure
💡 Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders face a risk score of 59/100 — 15 points above the national average of 44. With 53/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite strong projected growth. See our methodology →
💡 Workers in this field earn $41K. The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths →
🔍 AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 59/100, Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like industrial robotics replacing manual assembly tasks are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 13,890 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in coordinating workflow across diverse production teams and quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths →
⚠️ Top Risk Factors
Industrial robotics replacing manual assembly tasks
Cobots handling repetitive material handling tasks
Automated CNC programming and machine operation
Predictive maintenance reducing manual inspection roles
🛡️ Tasks Safe from Automation
Coordinating workflow across diverse production teams
Quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection
Handling non-standard materials and configurations
Troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions
📊 vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
🔄 Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 63% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors | 25 | $62K | 53% |
| Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers | 33 | $68K | 82% |