Foundry Mold and Coremakers
Foundry mold and coremakers create the sand or wax forms that metal gets poured into during casting production. Working in foundries, they shape materials by hand or machine to exact specifications, then prepare these molds and cores for the actual metal casting process. The work is precise and follows established procedures.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against foundry mold and coremakers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves measuring and preparing sand or wax materials, using hand tools and machines to form cores and molds according to blueprints and patterns. Coremakers inspect their work for accuracy and defects before cores are used in production. Tasks may include assembling multiple parts together, applying coatings, and arranging finished molds on assembly lines or storage areas. Much of the work follows set procedures and quality standards.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results rather than abstract tasks. You do well with detailed instructions, value doing things the right way, and find satisfaction in precision work that directly supports manufacturing processes.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $52,590 | $67,060 | $67,940 | 270 |
| Missouri | $60,540 | $61,480 | $61,480 | 590 |
| Illinois | $48,820 | $57,110 | $57,110 | 390 |
| Minnesota | $51,220 | $56,840 | $71,940 | 470 |
| Massachusetts | $47,480 | $55,940 | $71,190 | 60 |
| New Jersey | $49,610 | $55,210 | $55,210 | 330 |
| New York | $45,180 | $54,380 | $58,970 | 110 |
| Alabama | $46,980 | $51,040 | $54,800 | 850 |
| Indiana | $44,970 | $49,860 | $55,750 | 720 |
| Iowa | $43,250 | $49,060 | $54,920 | 480 |
| Ohio | $42,630 | $49,040 | $60,130 | 980 |
| Washington | $43,400 | $48,440 | $58,280 | 160 |
All 33 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Level I - Certified Die Casting Technician — North American Die Casting Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against foundry mold and coremakers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4071.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.