Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders
O*NET 51-9191.00 · SOC 51-9191
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator is a solid career choice. Median pay is $46k a year with +1.3% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 1,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Apply adhesive to surfaces using automated bonding machines
- →Load parts onto conveyor belts feeding the bonding machine
- →Monitor glue temperature and pressure during bonding cycles
- →Inspect bonded assemblies for gaps or weak adhesion spots
- →Clean adhesive nozzles and replace worn applicator tips
Education & How to Get In
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as an Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Adhesive Bonding Machine Operators and Tenders is projected to grow 1.3% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·44% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator make?
The median Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator earns $46k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator jobs?
Our model puts Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator at 55 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 44% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 1.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 1,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator?
Most Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become an Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →No account required · Matches are paid · 7 minutes