Metal making and treating process operatives Salary
Median salary £31,893 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £32,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For metal making and treating process operatives, £32,871 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -16% versus the national average.
About this role
Rubber process operatives operate machinery in rubber manufacturing, producing tyres, seals, hoses, belts and other rubber products. They mix rubber compounds, operate moulding and extrusion equipment and check quality against specifications.
Key responsibilities
- Operating rubber mixing, moulding and extrusion machinery
- Mixing rubber compounds to formulations
- Setting up and adjusting machinery for production runs
- Inspecting products for defects and dimensional accuracy
- Maintaining equipment and following safety procedures
Qualifications and entry routes
No formal qualifications typically required. On-the-job training provided. NVQ in Polymer Processing available.
Career outlook
Niche manufacturing sector with steady demand. Automotive and medical rubber products offer the most stable opportunities.
Key skills
Common industries
- Tyre manufacturing
- Rubber seals and gaskets
- Industrial hose production
- Automotive components
- Medical rubber products
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£22,879
0-2 years
Mid Level
£25,854
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£978
Metal making and treating process operatives salary: common questions
How much do metal making and treating process operatives earn in the UK?
Is £32,871 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for metal making and treating process operatives?
Have metal making and treating process operatives salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).