Job and Die Setters

Employment of job and die setters is generally expected to decline, depending on the specific job, through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Although multiple machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic, will experience growth of 2 percent, declines are projected for most other positions. The most significant decline (21 percent) will occur among milling and planing machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic. In general, employment is affected by the rate of technological improvements being used in industry, the demand for the type of goods produced, the effects of international trade, and the reorganization of production processes. Computer-controlled equipment allows workers to simultaneously operate a greater number of machines and makes setup easier. This reduces the time spent on setting up each machine and the number of workers needed. However, if setters keep their skills current or develop a combination of skills, they will continue to be in demand as other workers transfer or leave the labor force. Most openings that occur will be due to retirements.