To work as a metal and plastic processing worker, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education beyond high school is required for this job.

On-the-job training

Almost all metal and plastic processing workers learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. You begin by doing simple tasks such as helping other workers. Later, you learn to adjust feed speeds and change cutting tools.

The complexity of processing machines determines how much training you need to become an operator. You can learn basic machine functions in a few weeks. However, workers receive up to one year of training.