Pourers and Casters, Metal
Operate hand-controlled mechanisms to pour and regulate the flow of molten metal into molds to produce castings or ingots.
Common Job Titles
- Caster
- Melter
- Metal Handler
- Pourer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate hand-controlled pouring mechanisms and ladles to regulate molten metal flow into molds and produce castings in foundry settings.Developing
- KnowledgeIdentify equipment malfunctions and process deviations through continuous monitoring of molten metal casting operations.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate electric arc furnaces, tilt furnaces, and die casting machines following established safety protocols in high-temperature environments.Developing
- KnowledgeApply quality control standards to metal castings and ingots using precision measurement tools such as gauges and coordinate measuring machines.Developing
- Hands-onExecute mechanical equipment maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance of foundry machinery and tooling.Developing
- KnowledgeApply judgment and decision-making skills to adjust pouring parameters in response to real-time temperature, flow rate, and mold condition variations.Developing
- Hands-onHandle molten metal materials and heavy castings using overhead cranes, forklifts, and manual lifting equipment while adhering to safety standards.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret production specifications and work orders to determine appropriate mold selection, metal composition, and pouring techniques.Developing
- MindsetEngage in team communication and coordination with supervisors, peers, and support personnel to maintain production schedules and resolve operational issues.Developing
- Hands-onPerform troubleshooting and minor repair tasks on casting equipment using hand tools and diagnostic procedures to minimize production downtime.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Pourers and Casters, Metal (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,830
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,250. 25th percentile: U.S. $41,410. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,940. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,850. 90th percentile: U.S. $68,030. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $37,250 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $68,030 |
| Workers on average earn | $51,320 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language3.1/5
- Production and Processing2.8/5
- Education and Training2.6/5
- Mechanical2.5/5
- Administration and Management2.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Husky Injection Molding Systems Shotscope NX
Tools & Equipment
- Acetylene torches
- Automatic extractors
- Automatic ladles
- Bandsaws
- Chain falls
- Cold chamber die casting machines
- Coordinate measuring machines CMM
- Deburring tools