Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

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  Career Profile

Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

What they do

Set up, operate, or tend metal or plastic molding, casting, or coremaking machines to mold or cast metal or thermoplastic parts or products.

Also Called: Core Machine Operator, Die Cast Technician, Diecast Machine Operator, Machine Operator, Mold Setter, Mold Technician, Molder, Process Technician, Production Technician, Core Machine Operator, Die Cast Technician, Diecast Machine Operator, Machine Operator, Mold Setter, Mold Technician, Molder, Process Technician, Production Technician

$30,280
Starting Salary (2023)
$38,870
Median Salary (2023)
-3.7%
Projected Job Growth
158,980
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Observe continuous operation of automatic machines to ensure that products meet specifications and to detect jams or malfunctions, making adjustments as necessary.
Measure and visually inspect products for surface and dimension defects to ensure conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments.
Turn valves and dials of machines to regulate pressure, temperature, and speed and feed rates, and to set cycle times.
Remove parts, such as dies, from machines after production runs are finished.
Observe meters and gauges to verify and record temperatures, pressures, and press-cycle times.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Dependability
Attention to Detail
Cooperation
Integrity
Independence
Initiative

What key skills are needed for this job?

Operations Monitoring
Active Listening
Operation and Control
Monitoring
Reading Comprehension
Time Management

Expected Knowledge

Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

More Info

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