How much does a foundry mechanic earn?
Foundry mechanics prepare and operate moulds, cores and casting plant: they ready melt and moulding materials, control casting processes and safeguard casting quality – for example in iron, steel and non-ferrous foundries. Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements, shift allowances and employer. As a guide, qualified workers in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,100–€3,700 gross per month; during apprenticeship around €970–€1,300 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. Actual pay depends on collective agreements, shift and hardship allowances, employer, region, experience and responsibility in the foundry and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
A foundry mechanic prepares moulds and plant, controls melting and casting processes and checks castings for dimensions and defects. Daily work often means shift work at hot equipment, precise work under strict safety rules, and close coordination with melting, moulding, finishing and quality assurance.
- Prepare moulds, cores and casting equipment; supply melt, moulding materials and consumables as specified.
- Control and monitor casting processes – from melting and pouring through shake-out and decoring.
- Inspect, finish and document castings; carry out dimensional, surface and defect checks.
- Maintain foundry machines and plant, clear faults and coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance.
- Wear PPE and strictly follow heat, dust, noise and hazardous-substance protection rules.
- Shift and teamwork in the foundry are common; coordination with melters, moulders and the lab is everyday practice.
