Careers: Woodworking Machine Operators
Woodworking Machine Operators
Set up, operate, or tend woodworking machines, such as drill presses, lathes, shapers, routers, sanders, planers, and wood nailing machines. May operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment. Workers who primarily program or operate CNC equipment are classified in “Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators and Programmers”.
$17.46
Median Hourly Wage
47
Average Annual Openings
100
Near-term Retirements
Choose your view: Select below to view the information by your role.
Information For Job Seekers
In this job, your typical duties would include:
- Controlling machines and processes
- Handling and moving objects
- Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials
- Getting information
- Performing general physical activities
Is this a good fit for you? Skills typically required:
- Operations monitoring
- Operation and control
- Quality control analysis
- Monitoring
- Critical thinking
Start Here
Short-Term Training:
- Manufacturing Tech
- CNC Academy
Professional Certifications
- 10-Hour OSHA General Industry Card
Experience in Related Occupations:
- Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Wood Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Metal and Plastic Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Opportunity Outlook (2022 -2032)
Current Jobs:
488
Projected Growth:
-11% in Maine
Hires:
248
Information For Career Advisors
Hire and Train
Little to no job preparation is required. Most workers have a high school diploma or equivalent and receive moderate-term on-the-job training, which can take 6 months or more. However, there are training programs and pathways available that can reduce the amount of time spent in training. Career progression can take multiple forms depending on the worker’s interests, prior experience, and skill attainment. To advance, workers need 1-5 years within the role and to demonstrate leadership, experience, and capabilities.
Training
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- No work experience required
Requirements/Typical Entry Points
Short-Term Training:
- Manufacturing Tech
- CNC Academy
Professional Certifications
- 10-Hour OSHA General Industry Card
Experience in Related Occupations:
- Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Textile Cutting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Wood Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Metal and Plastic Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
- Cutting and Slicing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Workforce Snapshot
Current Jobs:
488
Projected Growth:
-11% in Maine
Hires:
248
Find Out More!
Interested in finding out more about forestry positions, businesses, and careers here in Maine? Simply share some information below and we’ll have an industry representative reach out directly to you!