Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend machines to mix or blend materials, such as chemicals, tobacco, liquids, color pigments, or explosive ingredients.
Common Job Titles
- Blender
- Machine Operator
- Mixer
- Mixer Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate mixing and blending machinery in production environments, following established procedures to process chemicals, pigments, and other materials.Proficient
- Hands-onHandle raw materials and finished products using forklifts, pallet movers, and manual equipment to load and unload mixing equipment.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate product quality and batch consistency by conducting quality control analysis using measuring instruments and comparing results to specifications.Proficient
- Hands-onInspect equipment, materials, and safety systems following regulatory requirements and facility safety protocols.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of production and processing principles to optimize batch timing, material sequencing, and equipment settings.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply operations monitoring techniques to assess machine performance and material flow during blending processes.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze equipment malfunctions and process deviations to troubleshoot and resolve operational issues independently.Developing
- Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical blending equipment using hand tools and power tools to ensure continuous operation.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret production specifications, batch formulas, and standard operating procedures to ensure accurate material measurements and mixing sequences.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in team coordination and training activities by communicating with supervisors and coworkers to maintain production schedules and safety standards.Developing
- Hands-onExecute documentation and record-keeping procedures using computers and operational databases to track batch data and production metrics.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
100,840
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,000. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,800. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,680. 75th percentile: U.S. $57,940. 90th percentile: U.S. $67,570. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,000 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $67,570 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,990 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing4.3/5
- English Language3.0/5
- Mechanical2.8/5
- Public Safety and Security2.7/5
- Mathematics2.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Email software
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Operational databases
- Spreadsheet software
- Word processing software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable wrenches
- Claw hammers
- Desktop computers
- Dollies
- Forklifts
- Gram scales
- Handtrucks
- Hydraulic lifts