Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend continuous flow or vat-type equipment; filter presses; shaker screens; centrifuges; condenser tubes; precipitating, fermenting, or evaporating tanks; scrubbing towers; or batch stills. These machines extract, sort, or separate liquids, gases, or solids from other materials to recover a refined product. Includes dairy processing equipment operators.
Common Job Titles
- Brewer
- Cellar Worker
- Machine Tender
- Pulper Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate continuous flow equipment, filter presses, centrifuges, and batch stills in industrial production settings to extract, sort, or separate liquids, gases, or solids.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate process parameters and material quality against production standards using hydrometers, pH indicators, colorimeters, and refractometers during continuous operations.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze process flow data, equipment readings, and quality control results to identify deviations and determine corrective actions during production runs.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate machine operation sequences and material handling workflows in multi-stage separation processes to maintain production efficiency and product recovery rates.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform routine maintenance on separation and filtration equipment using hand tools, grease guns, and diagnostic instruments to ensure optimal machine performance.Developing
- KnowledgeApply safety protocols and hazardous material handling procedures when operating fermenting tanks, evaporating equipment, and chemical processing systems.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, process diagrams, and standard operating procedures to set up and configure equipment for different separation and filtration operations.Developing
- Hands-onExecute troubleshooting procedures for malfunctioning processing equipment using diagnostic tools and mechanical knowledge to restore normal operations with minimal downtime.Developing
- MindsetEngage in collaborative communication with supervisors and coworkers to coordinate shift activities, report process irregularities, and share operational insights.Developing
- KnowledgeCompute material measurements, flow rates, and batch quantities using mathematical calculations and spreadsheet software to maintain accurate production records.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
54,200
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,810. 25th percentile: U.S. $41,830. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,500. 75th percentile: U.S. $61,350. 90th percentile: U.S. $75,860. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,810 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $75,860 |
| Workers on average earn | $53,830 |
+ 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 Processing3.8/5
- Mechanical3.3/5
- English Language3.1/5
- Public Safety and Security2.9/5
- Mathematics2.8/5
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 PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Email software
- Spreadsheet software
- Word processing software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable wrenches
- Claw hammers
- Colorimeters
- Desktop computers
- Gauging rods
- Graduated burets
- Grease guns
- Handheld refractometers