Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 34,750 molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastics, and they earn a median of $45,690/year. The range runs from $35K to $61K. Hawaii pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastics start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($46K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $61K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $75K | 40 |
| Maryland | $51K | 150 |
| New Hampshire | $51K | 90 |
| New York | $50K | 1,350 |
| Connecticut | $50K | 160 |
| Massachusetts | $50K | 1,150 |
| Montana | $49K | N/A |
| Oregon | $49K | 520 |
| New Jersey | $49K | 800 |
| California | $48K | 4,090 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastic make?▼
The median molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastic salary in the United States is $45,690 per year ($22/hour). Entry-level positions start around $34,950, while experienced professionals earn up to $61,050.
What education do you need to become a molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastic?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastics?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastics.
What are the highest paying states for molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastics?▼
The highest paying states for molders, shapers, and casters, except metal and plastics are Hawaii ($74,780), Maryland ($51,470), New Hampshire ($50,690), New York ($50,470), Connecticut ($50,350). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.