Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Colorado
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Colorado | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $48,680 | $45,590 | +6.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #7 of 50 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,710 jobs | 174,430 jobs | 1.0% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,360 | $18.44 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,050 | $20.22 |
| Median | $48,680 | $23.40 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,310 | $28.03 |
| 90th Percentile | $69,910 | $33.61 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Colorado in 2026?
With a median salary of $48,680 in Colorado and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +43.6%, cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic are still in strong and growing demand.
How can cutting, punching, and press machine setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic increase their salary in Colorado?
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Colorado can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Colorado currently ranks #7 out of 50 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Colorado?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors | $82,530 |
| Motor Vehicle Manufacturing | $62,490 |
| Utility System Construction | $61,360 |
How are Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic paid in Colorado compared to the national average?
The median salary for Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic in Colorado is $48,680, which is 6.8% above the national median of $45,590.