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

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX Employment Data

*State data provided by O*NET & BLS
Compare State Data      Compare Metro Area Data   
$32,760
Starting Salary (2025)
$43,970
Median Salary (2025)
-3.8%
Projected Job Growth
2,280
TX Employment (2025)

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
Critical Thinking

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.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 2

Some Preparation Needed

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • High school diploma 57%
  • Less than high school 30%
  • Post-secondary certificate 11%
  • Some college 2%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

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Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers
Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.