A molding, coremaking, and casting machine setter, operator, or tender controls and maintains the equipment that shapes metal and plastic into finished parts. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school diploma.
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You operate machines that mold, cast, and form metal and plastic materials into parts and products. Your day involves setting up machines, monitoring their performance, handling and moving materials, and inspecting finished work for quality. You read technical specifications, communicate with supervisors and coworkers about production needs, and identify any problems with equipment or output. The work requires attention to detail and the ability to spot defects before parts leave the line. You may adjust machine settings based on what you observe, keeping production running smoothly and safely.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic earn a median of $44,350 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 15,900 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. You will learn on the job, starting with basic machine operation and gradually taking on more complex setup and troubleshooting tasks. Some employers offer formal training programs or apprenticeships in molding and casting operations. You should be comfortable with math and mechanics, and willing to follow written and verbal instructions closely. Reading comprehension helps you understand technical manuals and production specifications. Many operators advance by developing deeper knowledge of machine systems and production processes over time.
Entry routes typically include direct hire with on-the-job training or formal apprenticeship programs in manufacturing. If you are exploring which path fits your situation, Pathly can map the molding, coremaking, and casting machine setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic path that fits you with your school counselor or career advisor to map out the steps and timeline that work for you.
You do not need a license to work as a molding, coremaking, and casting machine setter, operator, and tender, metal and plastic, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You like working with your hands and solving practical problems. You are detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable learning how machines work through hands-on experience.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).