Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

Mold, shape, form, cast, or carve products such as food products, figurines, tile, pipes, and candles consisting of clay, glass, plaster, concrete, stone, or combinations of materials.

The occupation "Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic" carries an automation risk of 44.3%, which is closely aligned with its base risk of 44.8%. This moderate risk level reflects a balance between tasks that are readily automatable and those that present significant challenges for current technology. The work often involves repetitive manual processes, but also demands specific skills that are difficult to fully replicate with machines. Automation is more likely in roles focused on straightforward and highly repeatable tasks, while less predictable or craft-oriented duties are somewhat insulated from technological replacement. Among the tasks most susceptible to automation, reading work orders or examining parts to determine production requirements is highly structured and can be handled by automated systems or software. Similarly, trimming or removing excess material using basic tools like scrapers, knives, or band saws is increasingly within reach of robotic manipulators and guided cutting systems. Additionally, brushing or spraying mold surfaces with parting agents or inserting paper for smoothness are standardized, repetitive actions, making them prime candidates for automated machinery in modern manufacturing settings, especially where high volumes are involved. Conversely, the most automation-resistant tasks tend to require augmented dexterity, hands-on judgment, or adaptability to new designs. Pouring, packing, spreading, or pressing materials like plaster or concrete into intricate molds benefits from subtle, real-time human adjustments not easily replicated by rigid automation. Constructing or forming the molds themselves demands creativity and material familiarity, particularly when patterns are complex or experimental—a need reflected in the relatively low (but essential) bottleneck skill levels for originality at 2.4% and 2.0%. Lastly, tapping or tilting molds to ensure even distribution calls for nuanced feedback and on-the-fly corrections, further illustrating why this occupation, despite significant automation potential, retains a substantial need for human workers.