Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Set up, operate, or tend metal or plastic molding, casting, or coremaking machines to mold or cast metal or thermoplastic parts or products.
SOC: 51-4072.00
Common Job Titles
Machine Operator
Molder
Process Technician
Production Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate injection molding machines, die casting machines, and coremaking equipment in metal and plastic production environments following established process parameters.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform machine setup, calibration, and adjustment procedures using digital micrometers, pressure gauges, and thermocouples to meet production specifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate molded parts and cast products for quality defects using precision measurement tools and visual inspection techniques to ensure compliance with dimensional tolerances.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute material handling procedures for metal and thermoplastic feedstock using powered industrial trucks and overhead cranes under safety protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze process monitoring data and machine performance indicators to identify deviations from standard operating conditions and prevent production losses.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and troubleshooting on molding and casting machinery using hand tools, pneumatic grinders, and mechanical knowledge to minimize downtime.
Developing
KnowledgeApply production and processing principles to optimize cycle times, temperature controls, and pressure settings for efficient operations.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in team communications regarding production schedules and quality issues collaborating with supervisors, quality inspectors, and fellow operators.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret work orders, technical specifications, and standard operating procedures to set up dies, molds, and machine controls accurately for each production run.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate mold clamps, sprue pullers, and deflashing tools to remove finished parts and prepare equipment for subsequent cycles.
Developing
KnowledgeCalculate material quantities, cycle times, and production rates using mathematics and measurement data to meet shift production targets.
Developing
MindsetEngage in continuous learning about new molding technologies and safety practices attending training sessions and applying updated procedures on the production floor.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
154,820
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,990. 25th percentile: U.S. $36,290. 50th percentile: U.S. $41,230. 75th percentile: U.S. $49,100. 90th percentile: U.S. $60,110. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,990
10% of workers earn the following or more
$60,110
Workers on average earn
$44,130
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing3.5/5
Mechanical3.5/5
Mathematics3.1/5
English Language2.9/5
Administration and Management2.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
