Operators risk injury from cutting tools, moving equipment, abrasive dust, and toxic chemicals. They wear safety glasses, earplugs, and shop aprons or coveralls. Many machine operators belong to unions. In some shops, operators may work evening, night, or rotating shifts. They work as part of a team with little supervision.
Wages vary according to training, experience and location.
Entry level wages may be lower. Pay varies by employer, geographic location, and size of firm. The workers level of experience and training can also affect wages. Workers who belong to a union tend to receive higher wages. There were 3,940 people employed as numerical control machine tool operators and tenders in Indiana in 1998.