SOC 51-9041
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Risk Score
⚠️64/100
High Risk
US Employment
👥57,310
Total workers
Median Wage
💰$45K
$35K – $65K
Projected Growth
📈+2%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
🤖48/100
Moderate exposure
💡 Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders face a risk score of 64/100 — 20 points above the national average of 44. With only 48/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology →
💡 Workers in this field earn $45K. The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths →
🔍 AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 64/100, Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, 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 57,310 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions and quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, 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
AI quality inspection via computer vision systems
Automated CNC programming and machine operation
Predictive maintenance reducing manual inspection roles
🛡️ Tasks Safe from Automation
Troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions
Quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection
Setup and calibration of custom production runs
📊 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 | 53% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors | 25 | $62K | 63% |
| Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers | 33 | $68K | 77% |