Also called: Mold and Pattern Maker
Makes the molds used to cast products, prototypes, props, and parts from plastic, rubber, or metal.
They build silicone or fiberglass molds around master models, then cast copies in resin or plastic. Precision and patience matter, since one tiny air bubble ruins a part. Product studios, prop shops, and factories hire them.
Based on BLS molders, shapers, and casters, May 2024 estimates.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. On-the-job training or trade school.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Trade school. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Manufacturing Technology.
Shrinking (about -3% over 10 years). Manufacturing automation is reducing jobs slightly.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. Automated machining and 3D-printed molds replace more routine molding; custom prop and art molds stay manual.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply to mold shops, prop shops and plastics plants for mold maker helper jobs
Classes: Machining or manufacturing CTE, Chemistry, Art 3-D Design.
Official data: O*NET occupation 51-9195.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.