Metal Caster

Your Fit

Income

$49K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-9.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Metal Caster?

Metal Casters are skilled workers involved in the process of casting metal into different shapes and sizes. They operate equipment that melts and molds metal into specified forms, essential in manufacturing a wide range of metal products.

Sample job titles:

Caster, Melter, Metal Handler, Pourer

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Metal Caster.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Metal Caster earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$37K per year	$41K per year	$49K per year	$60K per year	$68K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $560 below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Metal Caster do?

Work environment

Metal Casters typically work in foundries or manufacturing plants. The environment can be hot, noisy, and physically demanding, with exposure to molten metal and heavy machinery. Safety protocols are critical due to the high-risk nature of the work.

Quick task list

Operates furnaces to melt metals.
Pours molten metal into molds to create castings.
Inspects completed castings for quality and defects.
Maintains and cleans casting equipment and work areas.
Follows safety procedures to handle equipment and molten metal.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Iron and Steel Casting: Specializing in casting ferrous metals.
Non-Ferrous Casting: Working with non-ferrous metals like aluminum and copper.
Precision Casting: Creating highly detailed and accurate castings.
Die Casting: Using high-pressure techniques to produce metal castings.
Investment Casting: Specializing in casting complex shapes using a wax model.

Description

Metal Casters play a crucial role in the manufacturing sector, contributing to the production of everything from automotive parts to decorative items. They need a good understanding of metal properties and melting points, as well as proficiency in operating furnaces and other casting equipment. The ability to read and interpret blueprints or production schematics is also important, as it helps ensure that the final products meet the desired specifications.

This occupation requires precision and attention to detail, as errors in casting can lead to defects in final products. Metal Casters must be vigilant about quality control, regularly inspecting castings for any imperfections. The job can be physically strenuous, involving lifting heavy materials and standing for long periods.

Safety is paramount for Metal Casters, as working with molten metal and high-temperature equipment poses significant risks. They must adhere to strict safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear, including heat-resistant clothing and eye protection. The ability to work well in a team is important, as metal casting often involves coordination with other foundry workers.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The tangible results of creating useful and sometimes intricate metal products.
The skill and craftsmanship involved in metal casting.
Opportunities for continuous learning and mastering different casting techniques.

You might make a good Metal Caster if you are...

Skilled in working with your hands and enjoy creating physical objects.
Attentive to detail and committed to producing quality work.
Able to follow safety protocols and work in high-temperature environments.
Physically fit, capable of handling heavy materials and standing for long periods.
Interested in metallurgy and the properties of different metals.

Pros:

Steady demand in various industries for skilled Metal Casters.
Opportunities for skill development and specialization.
Satisfaction in creating a wide range of metal products.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work environment.
Exposure to high temperatures and loud noises.
Risk of burns and other injuries if safety protocols are not followed.

How to become a Metal Caster

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required. Training for this occupation mainly occurs on the job, although some may attend vocational schools or community college courses in metalworking or foundry technology, typically lasting 1-2 years.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in metalworking or welding.
Chemistry to understand metal properties and reactions.
Mathematics for precise measurements and calculations.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in technical or industrial arts clubs.
Engaging in hands-on workshops or maker fairs.
Volunteering or internships in manufacturing settings.

Preparation after high school

Vocational or technical training in foundry technology or metal casting.
On-the-job training in a foundry or manufacturing plant.
Certifications in specific casting techniques or safety protocols.

More resources

American Foundry Society (AFS) - Provides resources, education, and networking opportunities in the foundry industry.
The Non-Ferrous Founders' Society (NFFS) - Offers information and support for those working with non-ferrous metals.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Essential for understanding safety guidelines in metalworking environments.
Foundry Educational Foundation (FEF) - Offers scholarships and educational resources for those interested in foundry careers.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.