Foundry Mould Maker
Job Description:Foundry moulders make moulds to shape molten metal into castings used to make parts for industry.
Job Category:What you will do:
In your day-to-day duties you could:
- mix sand and clay to make moulds
- inject resin into sand to create shell moulds
- make replicas of moulds with wax for use in ‘investment’ casting
- pour molten metal into polystyrene patterns
- make moulds from heat resistant materials
- bond silica gel with ceramic powders to produce castings
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- concentration skills
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
Entry Requirements:
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
College
You can do an engineering course at college, which may help when you start looking for work. Courses include:
- Certificate in Skills for Engineering (Level 1 in the UK)
- Diploma in Engineering and Manufacturing (Level 1 in the UK)
- Certificate in Engineering (Level 2 in the UK)
Apprenticeship
You can complete an engineering operative intermediate apprenticeship or a metal casting and foundry technician advanced apprenticeship.
Work
You could start as a foundry process worker and do training on the job to become a mould maker.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work in a foundry workshop.
Your working environment may be hot and physically demanding.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
You could move into supervisory management, quality control or engineering design as you get more experience.