Occupation · SOC 51-4062
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
Median wage
$54,540
$39,150–$79,690
Projected growth
—
—
Annual openings
—
per year
Employed (US)
1,570
Job Zone 3
Typical preparation
Medium preparation
Stackable credential programs
45 mapped
Core skills
Operations MonitoringOperation and ControlQuality Control AnalysisActive ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingMonitoringReading Comprehension
Knowledge areas
Production and ProcessingMechanicalMathematicsDesignEngineering and Technology
Technology & tools
Computer aided design CAD softwareComputer aided manufacturing CAM softwareSpreadsheet softwareElectronic mail software
Representative tasks
Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instrumentsSet up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to Repair and rework templates and patterns.
Competency framework
Skill expectations by proficiency level.
emerging
Blueprint dimensions and notation — read and interpret under direct supervision to identify basic part geometry on entry-level casting assignments.Calipers, scales, and micrometers — select and apply to verify that pattern dimensions match specification tolerances on straightforward workpieces.Milling machines and drill presses — operate under close guidance following established setup sheets to produce simple pattern features.Hand tools and fasteners — use bolts, screws, and glue to assemble pre-cut pattern sections according to step-by-step work instructions.Emery cloths and hand files — apply to clean and smooth pattern surfaces to specified finish requirements under supervisor review.Identification numbers and symbols — mark onto completed patterns or templates using approved scribing or stamping methods in a supervised shop environment.Pattern defects and surface irregularities — recognize and report to senior patternmakers during routine inspection on the shop floor.Basic shop mathematics — perform dimensional calculations including fractions, decimals, and tolerances to support pattern layout tasks.Machine tool safety protocols — follow established procedures when staging and cleaning equipment to maintain a safe production environment.CAD drawing files — open and navigate to locate dimensional data in support of supervised patternmaking tasks.
developing
Micrometer and caliper measurements — execute independently to verify pattern conformance to engineering specifications across multiple workpiece materials.Lathes and grinders — set up and operate with reduced oversight to machine casting patterns to required dimensional accuracy in a production shop.Pattern sections and subassemblies — assemble using hand tools, rivets, and welding equipment following blueprint sequences with minimal supervision.Worn or damaged templates — repair and rework by identifying deviation sources and applying appropriate corrective machining or filling techniques.Platform fixtures and jigs — construct to hold and position patterns accurately during machining and inspection operations.Operational sequences — plan from blueprint interpretation, computing shrinkage allowances and draft angles for routine casting patterns.Quality control checks — conduct at defined production intervals using go/no-go gauges and precision instruments to maintain dimensional conformance.Power grinders and scrapers — apply systematically to finish pattern surfaces to drawing-specified smoothness standards in a timely manner.CAM software — use to generate basic toolpaths for straightforward pattern features, verifying output against drawing requirements.Spreadsheet tools — maintain dimensional inspection records and track rework status across active pattern assignments.
proficient
Complex casting blueprints and 3-D drawings — interpret autonomously to compute all derived dimensions, tolerances, and allowances for non-standard patterns.Multi-axis milling machines and precision lathes — set up and operate across the full range of pattern geometries, resolving tooling and fixturing challenges independently.Difficult pattern rework scenarios — diagnose root cause, develop a corrective action plan, and execute repairs that restore full dimensional conformance.Custom jigs and holding fixtures — design and fabricate for complex or irregular pattern profiles to ensure repeatable positioning during machining.Shrinkage rates, draft angles, and parting-line placement — calculate and apply for diverse alloy specifications to optimize pattern performance in foundry conditions.CAD software — use to model pattern geometry, verify fit of assembled sections, and generate updated drawings reflecting as-built conditions.Precision surface finishing — select and apply sequences of files, scrapers, and power grinders to achieve tight surface quality criteria on high-value patterns.Operations monitoring — evaluate machine behavior and in-process measurements continuously to detect drift and adjust parameters before nonconforming parts are produced.Cross-functional communication — convey technical pattern specifications clearly to foundry, engineering, and quality personnel to support seamless production transitions.Pattern identification and traceability systems — maintain rigorous marking and documentation practices ensuring full audit trail across pattern lifecycle.
advanced
Patternmaking workflow standards and best practices — establish and enforce across a production department to achieve consistent quality and throughput targets.Junior and mid-level patternmakers — mentor in blueprint interpretation, machine setup, and precision measurement to accelerate skill development and reduce error rates.Complex problem-solving initiatives — lead when recurring dimensional nonconformances or casting defects require cross-disciplinary root-cause analysis and permanent corrective action.CAD/CAM technology adoption — champion and direct integration of updated software tools and digital workflows to improve accuracy and reduce pattern lead times.Capital equipment selection — evaluate and recommend milling machines, CNC lathes, and inspection instruments based on production capability requirements and budget constraints.Pattern design reviews — chair with engineering and foundry teams to validate manufacturability, establish allowances, and approve operational sequences before production release.Quality management systems — develop and maintain inspection criteria, measurement system analyses, and corrective-action protocols aligned with ISO or industry standards.Resource and capacity planning — forecast patternmaking labor and tooling needs across project pipelines to align department output with organizational production schedules.Safety and regulatory compliance — audit shop practices and machine guarding measures, driving continuous improvement to meet OSHA and facility safety standards.Organizational knowledge transfer — document advanced patternmaking techniques, repair procedures, and institutional process knowledge to preserve capability and support workforce continuity.
Also known as
48 alternate job titles map to this occupation.
Plaster PatternmakerStencil CutterPatternmaker Apprentice, MetalStencil MakerAcoustical Tile PatternmakerWax MolderLayout TechnicianFixture BuilderPatternmaker, Metal, BenchExtrusion Die CoordinatorPattern Maker ProgrammerLoftsmanPatternmakerDie Cast Die MakerPatternmaker, All-AroundPatternmaker, MetalPatternmaker, SampleMetal Bench PatternmakerDie TechnicianMetal PatternmakerPattern Repair PersonPattern ScratcherPlastics PatternmakerExtrusion Die CorrectorTemplate Maker, Extrusion DiePattern Chart WriterStonework PatternmakerComputer PatternmakerPattern FitterDie InspectorMetal Products PatternmakerAll-Around PatternmakerPattern DeveloperPattern CutterMold ToolerPattern MakerTemplate MakerExtrusion Die Template MakerFreelance PatternmakerBoilermaker Loftsman