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Metal Processing Plant Operator

OFO Code: 712101

Last checked 3 October 2026

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1. Occupation identity

OFO code
712101
Occupation
Metal Processing Plant Operator
Classification
OFO 2021
Major group
PLANT AND MACHINE OPERATORS AND ASSEMBLERS
Unit group
7121 · Metal Processing Plant Operators

Official description
Metal processing plant operators, operate, monitor, adjust and maintain, single process machinery and equipment to process and convert mineral ores and refine, harden, roll and extrude metals.

More official OFO detail

Specialisations: Metal Heat Treating Operator, Metal Extrusion Plant Operator, Metal Drawer / Extruder, Steel Roller, Metal Production Plant Operator, Ladle Pourer

  • Controlling process start-up and shut-down, troubleshooting and monitoring outside process equipment
  • Observing gauges, meters, computer printouts, video monitors and products to ensure correct operation of machine and verify specified processing conditions
  • Operating single-function machinery to grind, separate, filter, mix, treat, cast, roll, refine or otherwise process metals and mineral ores
  • Setting up, preparing and adjusting mineral ore and metal processing machinery to carry out one step in the overall mineral ore or metal processing operation
  • Analyzing sample products, performing tests, recording data and writing production log
  • Controlling the preparation, measuring and feeding of raw materials and processing agents into plant
  • Adjusting equipment, valves, pumps, controls and process equipment
  • Verifying equipment for malfunctions, carrying out routine operating tests and arranging for maintenance

2. Demand status

Demand evidence not yet linked

This is an official OFO 2021 occupation. Demand status is separate evidence and is not inferred from inclusion in the OFO.

A national demand signal is not a promise of a vacancy in your town.

3. Salary evidence

No sourced salary record has been ingested for this OFO code yet.

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5. Qualification

Qualification evidence pending.

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7. Industry, sector and provincial context

National occupation classification. Industry and provincial context are shown only where a separate official source supports the link.

No source-backed modern OFO↔SIC 7 industry link has been ingested for this occupation yet. PathLens does not infer one from the job title.

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8. Next steps — official links

Career explorationNCAP / KhethaOfficial destination ↗QualificationQCTOOfficial destination ↗Public employment serviceESSA / labour centreOfficial destination ↗

9. Decision tools

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