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Transportation and Logistics

Machine Feeders and Offbearers

Feed materials into or remove materials from machines or equipment that is automatic or tended by other workers.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Machine Feeders and Offbearers
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Median pay

$39,700
Median annual pay for Machine Feeders and Offbearers.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

-13%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

4,700
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

46,500
Estimated U.S. employment for Machine Feeders and Offbearers in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

-6,000
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

No formal educational credential
Typical additional preparation: Short-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Monitoring
  2. 2Active Listening
  3. 3Reading Comprehension
  4. 4Speaking
  5. 5Critical Thinking
  6. 6Writing

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Production and Processing
  2. 2Mechanical
  3. 3Mathematics
  4. 4English Language
  5. 5Public Safety and Security
  6. 6Education and Training

Abilities

  1. 1Arm-Hand Steadiness
  2. 2Control Precision
  3. 3Rate Control
  4. 4Reaction Time
  5. 5Near Vision
  6. 6Oral Expression

Career interests

  1. 1Realistic
  2. 2Conventional
  3. 3Investigative
  4. 4Artistic
  5. 5Enterprising
  6. 6Social

Work styles

  1. 1Dependability
  2. 2Attention to Detail
  3. 3Cautiousness
  4. 4Integrity
  5. 5Stress Tolerance
  6. 6Cooperation

Work activities

  1. 1Handling and Moving Objects
  2. 2Controlling Machines and Processes
  3. 3Getting Information
  4. 4Performing General Physical Activities
  5. 5Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  6. 6Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events

Work context

  1. 1Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  2. 2Spend Time Standing
  3. 3Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
  4. 4Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
  5. 5Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
  6. 6Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

Representative tasks

  • Inspect materials and products for defects, and to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Record production and operational data, such as amount of materials processed.
  • Push dual control buttons and move controls to start, stop, or adjust machinery and equipment.
  • Weigh or measure materials or products to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Identify and mark materials, products, and samples, following instructions.
  • Clean and maintain machinery, equipment, and work areas to ensure proper functioning and safe working conditions.
  • Load materials and products into machines and equipment, or onto conveyors, using hand tools and moving devices.
  • Transfer materials and products to and from machinery and equipment, using industrial trucks or hand trucks.

Software and tools

Microsoft Excel · hot technologyMicrosoft Office software · hot technologyMicrosoft Outlook · hot technologyMachine operation softwareWork time tracking software

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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