FAQ
Foundry Moldmaker FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a foundry moldmaker.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a foundry moldmaker: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about foundry moldmakers
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects a steep decline.
Is dust a concern?
Yes, silica safety is required.
How much does a foundry moldmaker make?
The median annual wage for foundry moldmakers was $48,110 ($23.13 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,160 and the highest 10% earned more than $62,640.
How long does it take to become a foundry moldmaker?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a foundry moldmaker?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is foundry moldmaker a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -23.0% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 800 openings each year. Upsides include hands-on craft; a common challenge is that steep decline.
What skills does a foundry moldmaker need?
Key technical skills include sand molding, core making, core setting, and mold repair. Employers also value attention to detail, teamwork, and stamina.
What certifications are available for foundry moldmakers?
Common credentials include AFS training, Silica safety training, OSHA 10, and Crane training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Foundry Moldmaker fit quiz, compare with Metal Pourer, or explore Foundry Moldmaker training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-4071 (Foundry mold and coremakers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Foundry mold and coremakers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.