Skilled & Vocational · Trade
Foundryman
⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025A Foundryman works in metal casting shops, making moulds, cores and cast parts for industries like auto, machinery and engineering. It is a hands-on trade role usually entered through ITI and apprenticeship, with good scope in manufacturing and small-to-medium private foundries.
Who it's for: Best for students who like practical workshop work, machines, metals and process discipline, and are comfortable with heat, safety gear and shift-based factory environments.
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At a glance
Entry mode: Apprenticeship
Exam shape: none
Key exam: ITI
Min qualification: ITI
Duration: 2-3 yr
Starting salary: 1.8-3.5 LPA (approx, as of 2025)
Sector: Private
Category: Skilled & Vocational
Subjects / Stream
MathematicsSciencePhysicsChemistryITI trades / Mechanical basicsVocational education
Step-by-step path
- Complete Class 10, preferably with Mathematics and Science.
- Take admission in an ITI course relevant to foundry work or a related metal trade.
- Learn workshop safety, moulding, core making, melting basics and quality checks during training.
- Apply for apprenticeship or on-the-job training in a private foundry or manufacturing unit.
- Build practical skill in pattern reading, sand preparation, casting defects and finishing.
- Start as a foundry helper/operator and grow into moulding, core shop or production roles.
Key exams
ITI entrance/merit: admissionNCVT MIS: certificationApprenticeship portal: training
Top institutes / boards
NCVT-affiliated ITIsState ITIsDGT (Directorate General of Training)Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS) establishmentsMSME Tool Rooms / MSME Technology CentresCIPET centres with relevant shop-floor exposure
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Frequently asked questions
What is the qualification needed to become a Foundryman in India?
Usually Class 10 plus an ITI course is the common route. Some employers also accept equivalent vocational training and apprenticeship experience in a foundry.
Which ITI trade is best for Foundryman?
A foundry-related trade, moulding, or a closely related metalworking trade is useful. Exact trade names can vary by ITI and state, so check the local institute list.
Is there any entrance exam for Foundryman course admission?
Often admission is through merit or a state ITI process, not a national exam. Some states may have their own counselling or selection rules.
What is the age limit for ITI admission in India?
Age rules vary by state and institute. Many ITIs accept students around 14 years and above, but you should check the current state ITI notification for exact rules.
How many years does it take to become job-ready as a Foundryman?
Typically about 2 to 3 years after Class 10, including ITI training and apprenticeship or practical shop-floor learning.
What is the salary of a Foundryman in India?
Starting pay is often around 1.8 to 3.5 LPA in private industry, depending on city, company size and skill level, as of 2025.
Is Foundryman a good career in India?
Yes, if you want a practical manufacturing job. Foundry skills are needed in auto parts, machinery, casting units and repair workshops.
What kind of work does a Foundryman do?
A Foundryman helps make moulds and cores, prepares sand, handles molten metal processes, checks castings and supports finishing and quality control.
Can girls become Foundryman in India?
Yes. Girls and women can enter foundry and related manufacturing roles if they meet the training and workplace safety requirements.
Is there reservation in ITI admission for Foundryman-related courses?
Yes, reservation rules may apply in government ITIs as per central or state policy. The exact categories and percentages depend on the state and admission notice.
What are the fees for ITI Foundryman training?
Fees vary widely by government or private ITI. Government ITIs are usually much cheaper than private ones, but you should check the current institute fee notice.
Do I need Physics and Chemistry in Class 12 for this career?
No, Class 12 is not mandatory for the usual ITI route. However, Mathematics and Science at school level help with technical understanding.
Which stream should I choose in school for Foundryman?
Science or vocational education is helpful, but the main requirement is usually Class 10 completion. A technical mindset matters more than a specific school stream.
What are the job opportunities after ITI and apprenticeship?
You can work in private foundries, casting units, auto-component plants, metal workshops and small manufacturing firms as an operator or trainee.
Can a Foundryman get a government job?
Government jobs are fewer than private-sector jobs in this trade. Most opportunities are in private foundries, though some public-sector units may hire skilled workers.
Is apprenticeship compulsory for Foundryman?
It is not always legally compulsory, but apprenticeship or shop-floor training is highly valuable and often expected by employers for practical skill.
What skills are most important for a Foundryman?
Safety awareness, attention to detail, stamina, teamwork, basic measurement, and understanding of moulding and casting defects are very important.
Is this career physically demanding?
Yes. Foundry work can involve heat, dust, lifting and standing for long hours. Good fitness and strict safety habits are important.
Is Foundryman right for me?
It may suit you if you like practical work, machines and manufacturing, and do not mind a factory environment. It may not suit you if you want a desk-only job.
What are similar careers to Foundryman?
Related options include moulder, core maker, furnace operator, machine operator and welder. These also fit the manufacturing and metalworking sector.
Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.
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