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The differences between handle machine operators and molder operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a molder operator has an average salary of $31,707, which is higher than the $29,598 average annual salary of a handle machine operator.
The top three skills for a handle machine operator include forklifts, cranes and production lines. The most important skills for a molder operator are GMP, quality checks, and dexterity.
| Handle Machine Operator | Molder Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $29,598 | $31,707 |
| Hourly rate | $14.23 | $15.24 |
| Growth rate | 7% | -5% |
| Number of jobs | 110,258 | 66,217 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 57% | High School Diploma, 51% |
| Average age | 44 | 45 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
A handle machine operator is responsible for operating production machines, conducting preventive maintenance, and ensuring optimal performance to prevent delays in orders or project deliverables. Handle machine operators analyze schematics and blueprints, inspect components for inconsistencies, replace defective parts, and upgrade systems as needed for higher operational efficiency. They also create resolution records for reference and manage maintenance standards to prevent downtimes. A handle machine operator must have excellent mechanical skills, especially on identifying machine problems and following specifications.
A molder operator sets up for the production of millwork, which is a crucial and major output of precision wood products. This position requires experience with all machinery associated with the woodworking industry. The responsibilities of a molder operator include setting up and operating the molder, inspecting the stock being cut, and verifying the dimensions of cut material to ensure they match specifications.
Handle machine operators and molder operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Handle Machine Operator | Molder Operator | |
| Average salary | $29,598 | $31,707 |
| Salary range | Between $23,000 And $36,000 | Between $26,000 And $38,000 |
| Highest paying City | Redwood City, CA | Milford, CT |
| Highest paying state | Pennsylvania | Alaska |
| Best paying company | Land O'Lakes | BD |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a handle machine operator and a molder operator in terms of educational background:
| Handle Machine Operator | Molder Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 57% | High School Diploma, 51% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between handle machine operators' and molder operators' demographics:
| Handle Machine Operator | Molder Operator | |
| Average age | 44 | 45 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 79.6% Female, 20.4% | Male, 66.6% Female, 33.4% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 12.1% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 15.8% Asian, 7.1% White, 60.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2% | Black or African American, 10.0% Unknown, 4.0% Hispanic or Latino, 15.7% Asian, 7.3% White, 62.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7% |
| LGBT Percentage | 5% | 3% |