Career Overview
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
Also Known As
- Metal Pattern Maker
- Pattern Maker
- Patternmaker
- Wax Molder
Alternate Job Titles
- Acoustical Tile Patternmaker
- All-Around Patternmaker
- Boilermaker Loftsman
- Chart Writer
- Computer Patternmaker
- Die Cast Die Maker
- Die Inspector
- Die Technician
- Extrusion Die Coordinator
- Extrusion Die Corrector
- Extrusion Die Template Maker
- Fixture Builder
- Foundry Patternmaker
- Freelance Patternmaker
- Layout Technician
What You'll Do
In this role, your typical responsibilities include:
- Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
- Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
- Repair and rework templates and patterns.
- Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
- Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
- Construct platforms, fixtures, and jigs for holding and placing patterns.
- Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.
Knowledge You'll Use
You'll need solid knowledge in these areas:
- Production and Processing
Key Abilities
This career requires key abilities in:
- Near Vision
- Arm-Hand Steadiness
- Visualization
- Control Precision
- Problem Sensitivity
- Manual Dexterity
- Deductive Reasoning
- Finger Dexterity
- Information Ordering
- Selective Attention
Work Style
People who excel in this career typically demonstrate:
- Attention to Detail
- Dependability
- Cautiousness
- Achievement Orientation
- Perseverance
What Matters in This Career
This career tends to satisfy these work values:
- Support
- Independence
- Relationships
- Working Conditions
- Achievement
Education & Preparation
Typical Education: Some College Courses
Related Work Experience Needed: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
On-the-Job Training: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Education Details: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience Required: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Technology You'll Use
Popular Technologies & Software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
Tools & Equipment
- 2/3 axis computer numerically controlled CNC milling machines
- Bandsaws
- Benchtop drill presses
- Computer numerical control CNC turning centers
- Crucible furnaces
- Digital bench scales
- Digital calipers
- Digital micrometers
- Disc sanders
- Dividers
- Draw knives
- Drying chambers
- Electric hoists
- Flat cold chisels
- Foundry casting ladles
Work Environment
- Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Time Pressure
- Exposed to Contaminants
Salary & Job Market
| Salary Percentile | Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th percentile) | $39,150 |
| Median | $54,540 |
| Top Earners (90th percentile) | $79,690 |
Workers Employed Nationally: 1,570
Related Careers
If you're interested in this career, you might also consider:
Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Median Salary: $67,670
Patternmakers, Wood
Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Median Salary: $52,520
Tool and Die Makers
Education: Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production)
Median Salary: $63,180
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Median Salary: $61,870
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
Median Salary: $62,700
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Occupational data sourced from the O*NET OnLine database, developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Wage data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), 2024.