Die Casting Machine Operator

Also called: Die Caster, Aluminum Die Cast Operator

Runs machines that inject molten aluminum or zinc into steel molds to make engine parts, housings and door handles.

A day in the life

Molten aluminum shoots into a closed steel die and seconds later the machine opens and a robot pulls out a glowing part. You check parts for holes, spray the die and change molds for new jobs. EV makers are now die-casting entire car frames in one giant shot.

Pay over a career

Starting
$35k
Typical
$44k
High
$58k

BLS molding, coremaking and casting machine setters.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. High school diploma; trained on the job.

Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.

Outlook

Shrinking (about -3% over 10 years). Molding and casting machine setters overall.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

High risk for 10 years. Die-casting cells use robots for ladling, extraction and trimming; few operators are needed per machine.

Could start right away

Age 18+. One way to start: Apply at die-casting plants or through a staffing agency; new hires are trained on the job

Start now, in high school

Classes: Shop class, Algebra.

Official data: O*NET occupation 51-4072.

More Metalworking, Welding & Fabrication careers

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.