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The differences between molder operators and machine operators can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. Additionally, a machine operator has an average salary of $32,874, which is higher than the $31,707 average annual salary of a molder operator.
The top three skills for a molder operator include GMP, quality checks and dexterity. The most important skills for a machine operator are basic math, CNC, and math.
| Molder Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Yearly salary | $31,707 | $32,874 |
| Hourly rate | $15.24 | $15.80 |
| Growth rate | -5% | -6% |
| Number of jobs | 66,217 | 96,834 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 51% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Average age | 45 | 44 |
| Years of experience | - | - |
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.
Machine operators are responsible for managing the machines assigned to them. They set up, install, operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and ensure quality output. Machine operators must know the inner workings of the machine such that they can easily address any problems that may arise. They must ensure that all components of the machine are working well. They perform maintenance routine checks to ensure that the machine is working at the most efficient capacity, is well-stocked with needed materials, and producing the best output. Machine operators are also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and sanitation of the machine.
Molder operators and machine operators have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Molder Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average salary | $31,707 | $32,874 |
| Salary range | Between $26,000 And $38,000 | Between $26,000 And $40,000 |
| Highest paying City | Milford, CT | Minneapolis, MN |
| Highest paying state | Alaska | Minnesota |
| Best paying company | BD | BD |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a molder operator and a machine operator in terms of educational background:
| Molder Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 51% | High School Diploma, 53% |
| Most common major | Business | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between molder operators' and machine operators' demographics:
| Molder Operator | Machine Operator | |
| Average age | 45 | 44 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 66.6% Female, 33.4% | Male, 72.3% Female, 27.7% |
| Race ratio | 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% | Black or African American, 12.0% Unknown, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 16.0% Asian, 7.5% White, 60.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 5% |