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Foundry Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting foundry machinery and equipment. * Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. * Effective communication skills, both verbal and ...

Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting foundry machinery and equipment. * Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. * Effective communication skills, both verbal and ...

Foundry Lead

Tulsa, OK

$14.75 - $19/hr

Overview The Lead Foundry Worker is responsible for all Foundry Worker duties while assisting the ... Minimum 1 year of experience operating forklifts, overhead cranes, and front-end loaders. * General ...

Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting foundry machinery and equipment. * Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. * Effective communication skills, both verbal and ...

Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting foundry machinery and equipment. * Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. * Effective communication skills, both verbal and ...

Monitor production throughout the shift, identify operating constraints or disruptions, and ... Foundry Process & Equipment Support * Apply practical knowledge of foundry processes and equipment ...

The Foundry Machine Operator is responsible for supporting machine shop and foundry operations by operating production equipment, performing casting and material processing activities, and producing ...

The Foundry Machine Operator is responsible for supporting machine shop and foundry operations by operating production equipment, performing casting and material processing activities, and producing ...

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Foundry Operator information

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$13

$19

$27

How much do foundry operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for foundry operator in the United States is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foundry operator?

Foundry operators are skilled workers responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in metal casting processes. They prepare molds, handle molten metal, and monitor machinery to ensure the safe and efficient production of metal parts. Foundry operators must follow safety protocols, inspect finished products for quality, and perform routine maintenance on foundry equipment. Their role is essential in industries such as automotive, construction, and manufacturing, where metal components are produced.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foundry operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foundry Operator, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, furnace operation, casting processes, and typically a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and material handling systems is essential, and some roles may require forklift certification or OSHA training. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help operators maintain quality standards and coordinate effectively on the production floor. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality metal casting operations in a demanding industrial environment.

What are some common challenges faced by foundry operators and how can they be addressed?

Foundry Operators often encounter challenges such as working in high-temperature environments, managing heavy machinery, and maintaining strict safety standards. One way to address these challenges is by adhering closely to safety protocols and using the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Regular training on equipment handling and emergency procedures also helps minimize risks. Additionally, effective communication with team members ensures smooth workflow and quick response to any operational issues.

What is the difference between Foundry Operator vs Metal Casting Technician?

AspectFoundry OperatorMetal Casting Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in safety or equipment operationHigh school diploma; technical training or certifications in casting processes
Work EnvironmentFactories or foundries with heavy machinery and molten metalsManufacturing plants focusing on metal casting and finishing
Industry UsageCommonly employed in metal foundries and manufacturingOften used interchangeably but may focus more on casting process specifics
Job FocusOperating equipment, ensuring safety, and maintaining production flowPreparing molds, pouring metals, and inspecting castings

While both roles involve working with metal casting processes, a Foundry Operator primarily manages equipment and safety in foundries, whereas a Metal Casting Technician focuses more on the technical aspects of mold preparation and casting quality. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Foundry Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Foundry Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Foundry Operator job openings:

What states have the most Foundry Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Foundry Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Foundry Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Foundry Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Foundry Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,487 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Heavy Foundry Operator- 2nd or #rd Shift Mapleton Cast Metal Org. (CMO)

Caterpillar

Mapleton, IL • On-site

$23.22 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 480 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Career Area:
Operations
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
The Mapleton Foundry is looking to hire experienced Foundry Operators! The starting pay for training is $23.22, once fully trained it will go up to $26.66, plus $1.00 night-shift premium. As a Foundry Operator, you will operate stations to monitor and control processes related to casting products.
Job Duties/Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Applying safe working methods
  • Operates control station to monitor and control foundry processes
  • Analyzes control signals
  • Control melting operations
  • Detect deviations and initiate corrective action
  • Ability to operate powered industrial vehicles

Minimum Qualifications:
  • One-year prior foundry experience
  • Ability to frequently lift and carry boxes weighing up to 35 pounds
  • Ability to stand throughout an 8 to 12-hour shift
  • Ability to operate heavy machinery and manufacturing equipment

Top candidates will also have:
  • Previous machine shop, foundry, or manufacturing experience
  • Experience operating furnaces and other foundry related equipment
  • Knowledge of mold preparation and pouring techniques
  • Math skills
  • Verbal and written communication skills
  • Problem solving and decision-making

What You Will Get:
Our goal at Caterpillar is for you to have a rewarding career. Our teams are critical to the success of our customers who build a better world. Here you earn more than just wage, because we value your performance, we offer a total rewards package that provides:
  • Competitive base salary after training period: starting Pay rate- $26.66, plus $1.00 night-shift premium
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage (limited while supplemental)
  • Paid time off plan (prorated based on start date)
  • 401k savings plan
  • Wellness programs

Salary Range: $23.22 - $28.50
Additional Information:
  • Positions start as supplemental (40 or more hours per week but with no holiday pay and limited benefits) on 2nd or 3rd shift
  • Positions are in Mapleton, Illinois
  • There is no relocation offered for these positions

This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S. which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers
Summary Pay Range:
$0.00 - $0.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
August 4, 2026 - October 13, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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