How to become molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plasticeducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$46,170
25th–75th pct. $39,280–$53,000
Top pay (est.)
$80,000
Top 10% $61,530
Pay in 5 years
$53,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$63,000est.
$54,200–$73,100
Outlook score
59/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
41%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+5.8%
5,100 openings / yr

How to become molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastic

Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Long-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
2.9
Operation and Control
2.6
Active Listening
2.6
Reading Comprehension
2.6
Critical Thinking
2.6
Time Management
2.6
Writing
2.5
Monitoring
2.5

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Production and Processing
3.0
Mechanical
3.0
Education and Training
2.7
English Language
2.7
Administration and Management
2.6
Engineering and Technology
2.5
Public Safety and Security
2.4
Mathematics
2.3

What the work involves

Handling and Moving ObjectsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesControlling Machines and ProcessesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings

Important abilities

Near VisionInformation OrderingOral ComprehensionVisualizationTrunk StrengthFinger Dexterity

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastic

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.