Metal machining setters and setter-operators Pay Data UK — 2025

Metal machining setters and setter-operators roles in the UK earn a median of £35,014 per year, equivalent to £17.65 per hour as of 2025. This represents a 5.2% increase in annual pay compared to the previous year. Pay varies across the UK, ranging from £26,704 to £42,705 per year.

How Pay Varies Across the UK

Each bar shows how many areas of the UK have a median annual pay in that range for Metal machining setters and setter-operators roles. The dashed line marks the national median.

Based on sub-regional area data. Want a precise figure for your area?

About Metal machining setters and setter-operators

Metal machining setters and setter-operators operate machines to drill, bore, grind, cut, mill or otherwise shape metal workpieces.

Typical Tasks and Duties

• examines drawings and specifications to determine appropriate method, sequence of operations and machine setting
• selects and fixes work-holding devices and appropriate cutting, shaping, grinding and/or forming tools
• sets machine controls for rotation speeds, depth of cut and stroke, and adjusts machine table, stops and guides
• operates automatic or manual controls to feed tool to workpiece or vice versa and checks accuracy of machining
• repositions workpiece, changes tools and resets machine as necessary during production run
• instructs operators on the safe and correct method of operation of the machine

Entry Routes and Qualifications

There are no formal academic requirements although some employers may require GCSEs/S grades. Engineering apprenticeships, BTEC and City and Guilds qualifications are available together with on-the-job training. NVQs/ SVQs at level 2 and 3 are available.

Related Occupations

Salary data is sourced from official UK pay datasets and updated periodically.