Career Development Grid

If you are interested in a career as a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender in Nigeria, you will need to complete a vocational training program in metalworking or plastics. This training can be obtained through a technical school, community college, or apprenticeship program.
Typical job duties and responsibilities of someone in this career include setting up and operating machines that shape metal or plastic into parts or products. They must also inspect finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and adjust machine settings as needed.
In terms of earning potential, the starting salary for this career in Nigeria is around ₦50,000 per month, with the potential to earn up to ₦150,000 per month with experience and skill development. Long-term earning potential can also increase with career advancement opportunities.
Opportunities for career advancement in this field include becoming a supervisor or manager of a production line or starting your own manufacturing business.
The biggest challenges facing people in this career include the physical demands of the job, such as standing for long periods of time and lifting heavy materials. However, these challenges can be overcome with proper training and safety protocols.
The best ways to gain experience and build a network in this field include completing vocational training programs, participating in apprenticeships, and joining professional organizations such as the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises.
The current job prospects for this career in Nigeria are good, as there is a high demand for skilled workers in the manufacturing industry. However, it is important to stay up-to-date with new technologies and industry trends to maintain job security.
The most important skills or qualities someone needs to succeed in this career include attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and problem-solving skills.
This career is in demand in a variety of sectors and industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods manufacturing.
A common misconception about this career is that it is low-skilled and low-paying. However, with the right training and experience, this career can offer a stable and lucrative career path.

The education and training required for a career as a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, or Tender in the metal and plastic industry can vary depending on the specific job and employer. However, most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Some employers may also require completion of a vocational or technical training program in machining or a related field. These programs may be available at community colleges, vocational schools, or technical institutes and typically take one to two years to complete.
On-the-job training is also common for this occupation. New workers typically receive training from experienced employees or supervisors, learning the specific skills and techniques necessary to operate and maintain the machines.
In addition to formal education and training, employers may also look for candidates with strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail. Good communication and teamwork skills may also be important in this occupation, as workers may need to collaborate with others to ensure efficient production and quality control.

The typical job duties and responsibilities of a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender, Metal and Plastic include:
1. Setting up and operating multiple machines, such as lathes, drills, milling machines, and grinders.
2. Reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and work orders to determine machine setup and production specifications.
3. Adjusting machine settings to ensure proper dimensions and tolerances of finished products.
4. Monitoring machine operation and making necessary adjustments to ensure quality and productivity.
5. Inspecting finished products to ensure they meet customer specifications and quality standards.
6. Performing routine maintenance on machines, such as cleaning and lubricating parts.
7. Troubleshooting and resolving issues with machines and production processes.
8. Maintaining production records and reporting any issues or concerns to supervisors.
9. Following safety procedures and guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries.
10. Training and mentoring new machine operators.
Overall, the job of a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender, Metal and Plastic requires a high degree of technical skill, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

The earning potential for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry.
In the short term, entry-level positions in this field typically pay around $12 to $15 per hour. However, with experience and skill development, workers in this field can earn higher wages, with some earning up to $25 per hour.
In the long term, the earning potential for this career can be quite good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic was $36,980 as of May 2020. However, top earners in this field can earn upwards of $60,000 per year.
It’s also worth noting that there may be opportunities for advancement in this field, such as becoming a supervisor or manager, which could lead to higher salaries.

The opportunities for career advancement in the field of Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic include:
1. Supervisor/Manager: With experience and additional training, individuals in this field can advance to supervisory or management positions, where they oversee the work of other machine tool operators.
2. Quality Control Inspector: Those with a keen eye for detail can become quality control inspectors, responsible for ensuring that the products produced by the machines meet the required specifications.
3. CNC Programmer: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming is a highly specialized skill that involves writing code to control the machines. With additional training, individuals can advance to become CNC programmers.
4. Maintenance Technician: Experienced machine tool operators can transition to maintenance roles, where they are responsible for repairing and maintaining the machines.
5. Sales Representative: Those with excellent communication and interpersonal skills can become sales representatives for machine tool manufacturers, selling their products to manufacturing companies.
6. Manufacturing Engineer: Individuals with a degree in engineering can become manufacturing engineers, responsible for designing and optimizing the manufacturing processes that involve the use of machine tools.
Overall, the field of Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic offers a wide range of opportunities for career advancement, depending on an individual’s skills, interests, and educational background.

One of the biggest challenges facing people in the career of Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is the potential for physical strain or injury due to the repetitive motions and heavy machinery involved in the job. Additionally, the job can be mentally demanding, requiring focus and attention to detail for extended periods of time.
To overcome these challenges, it is important for individuals in this career to prioritize safety and take appropriate precautions to prevent injury. This may include wearing protective gear, taking breaks as needed, and following proper procedures for operating machinery.
To address the mental demands of the job, individuals may benefit from developing strategies for staying focused and maintaining concentration, such as taking short breaks or practicing mindfulness techniques.
In addition, ongoing training and professional development can help individuals stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques in the field, which can help improve efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Building a supportive network of colleagues and seeking out mentorship opportunities can also be helpful in navigating the challenges of this career.

1. Look for internships or apprenticeships: Many technical schools, vocational schools, and community colleges offer internships or apprenticeships that allow students to gain hands-on experience in the field. This is a great way to learn about the industry, build skills, and make connections.
2. Join a professional organization: Joining a professional organization can provide access to networking events, job listings, and other resources. The National Tooling & Machining Association and the Precision Machined Products Association are two examples of organizations that cater to the metal and plastic machining industry.
3. Attend trade shows and conferences: Attending industry trade shows and conferences is a great way to meet people in the industry, learn about new technologies and trends, and gain exposure to potential job opportunities.
4. Volunteer or work part-time: Volunteering or working part-time in a machine shop or manufacturing facility can provide valuable experience and help build a network of contacts in the industry.
5. Build a portfolio: Creating a portfolio of work samples, projects, and certifications can help demonstrate your skills and experience to potential employers. This can be especially helpful for those just starting out in the field.

The job prospects for Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic, are currently stable. These professionals are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, where they operate and maintain machines that shape and form metal and plastic parts.
However, with the advancement of technology and automation, there is a possibility that some of the tasks performed by these professionals may become automated, leading to a decline in the number of jobs available.
On the other hand, the increasing demand for precision parts in industries such as medical devices and electronics could lead to an increase in job opportunities for those with specialized skills and training in this field.
Overall, it is important for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, or Tender, Metal and Plastic, to stay updated with the latest technological advancements and acquire the necessary skills and training to remain competitive in the job market.

The skills and qualities that are important for someone to succeed as a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender, Metal and Plastic include:
1. Technical knowledge: This career requires a good understanding of the principles of metal and plastic machining, as well as experience in operating and setting up various types of machines.
2. Attention to detail: Being able to pay close attention to details is important for ensuring that parts are manufactured to the correct specifications and that the machines are set up properly.
3. Physical dexterity: This job involves working with machinery and tools, so having good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity is essential.
4. Problem-solving skills: Operators must be able to troubleshoot problems that arise during the machining process, such as tool wear or machine malfunctions.
5. Time-management skills: The ability to manage time effectively is important in this career, as operators are often responsible for multiple machines at once and must ensure that production schedules are met.
6. Communication skills: Being able to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and other team members is important for ensuring that everyone is on the same page and that work is completed efficiently.
7. Safety awareness: Operators must be aware of safety protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.

The career of Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is in demand in various sectors or industries, including:
1. Manufacturing industry: This is the primary sector where the demand for machine tool operators is high. The manufacturing industry includes the production of machinery, equipment, vehicles, and other goods.
2. Aerospace industry: The aerospace industry requires skilled machine operators to manufacture aircraft parts, engines, and other components.
3. Automotive industry: The automotive industry also requires machine tool operators to produce various automotive parts and components.
4. Medical device manufacturing: The medical device manufacturing industry also requires machine tool operators to produce medical equipment and devices.
5. Construction industry: The construction industry requires machine tool operators to produce metal and plastic parts for construction equipment and machinery.
6. Electrical and electronics industry: The electrical and electronics industry requires machine tool operators to produce various electronic components and devices.
7. Defense industry: The defense industry requires machine tool operators to produce military equipment and components.
8. Furniture manufacturing: The furniture manufacturing industry requires machine tool operators to produce metal and plastic parts for furniture production.
9. Tool and die manufacturing: The tool and die manufacturing industry requires machine tool operators to produce precision tools and dies for various industries.
10. Energy industry: The energy industry requires machine tool operators to produce metal and plastic parts for energy production equipment.

Misconception: One common misconception about being a Multiple Machine Tool Setter, Operator, and Tender, Metal and Plastic is that it is a low-skilled job that anyone can do.
Reality: In reality, this job requires a high level of skill and technical knowledge. Operators must be able to read and interpret blueprints and schematics, make precise measurements, and use a variety of tools and machines to shape and mold metal and plastic materials. They must also have a strong understanding of safety protocols and be able to troubleshoot and make adjustments to machines as needed.
Misconception: Another misconception is that this job is becoming obsolete due to advances in automation and robotics.
Reality: While some tasks may be automated, there is still a high demand for skilled operators who can oversee and maintain the machines, troubleshoot issues, and make necessary adjustments. Additionally, there are certain tasks that still require a human touch, such as inspecting finished products for quality control and making decisions about the appropriate tools and settings to use for a specific job.
Misconception: Some people may also assume that this job is low-paying and lacks opportunities for advancement.
Reality: While entry-level positions may have lower pay, skilled operators with experience and specialized knowledge can earn competitive salaries. Additionally, there are opportunities for advancement into supervisory or management roles, as well as opportunities to specialize in a particular type of machine or material. Continuing education and training can also lead to higher-paying positions and increased job security.