Careers · Production

Pourers and Casters, Metal

Pourers and casters operate hand-controlled mechanisms to direct molten metal into molds, creating castings or ingots. This work takes place in foundries, metal processing plants, and manufacturing facilities where metal is heated and shaped into specific forms.

$51,810median pay, U.S., per year

$45,190–$61,700middle half earn

4,560employed in the U.S.

High school diplomatypical education

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A day in the work

A typical week involves monitoring temperature controls, positioning molds, and operating pouring equipment. Workers pour molten metal with precision timing, adjust flow rates to prevent defects, and monitor cooling processes. Tasks include preparing molds, maintaining equipment, keeping work areas clean and organized, and documenting production records.

Who this work suits

Realistic

100Conventional

46Investigative

24Artistic

2Social

1Enterprising

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, structured work with clear procedures and measurable results. People who succeed in this role are detail-oriented, follow safety protocols carefully, and take satisfaction in producing quality metal parts according to specifications.

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

Operations MonitoringOperation and ControlActive ListeningCritical ThinkingMonitoringJudgment and Decision MakingCoordinationQuality Control Analysis

Knowledge areas

English LanguageProduction and ProcessingEducation and Training

Pay by state

State	25th pct	Median	75th pct	Employed
Tennessee	$61,360	$71,880	$72,690	120
Massachusetts	$49,550	$62,820	$72,850	—
Florida	$59,320	$62,090	$80,900	40
Indiana	$45,930	$61,430	$61,700	530
Ohio	$46,160	$60,770	$70,380	460
Michigan	$44,860	$60,280	$60,280	360
North Carolina	$45,090	$57,700	$58,900	100
Illinois	$50,570	$57,200	$84,290	330
Washington	$48,890	$54,210	$89,170	80
Texas	$47,210	$52,100	$62,640	500
Oregon	$46,670	$52,010	$62,580	60
Kansas	$41,820	$50,530	$55,500	70

All 23 states

Training

Local training programs Certifications Licenses in your state Apprenticeships

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

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Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against pourers and casters, metal and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.

Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 51-4052.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.