Patternmakers, Metal & Plastic

realistic interests pattern drawing measure dimensions product build template operate machine welding equipment metal sequence

Metal Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker, Patternmaker, Wax Molder

What they do:
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
On the job, you would:
  • 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.

Knowledge

Manufactured or Agricultural Goods

  • manufacture and distribution of products

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical
  • design

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Skills

Basic Skills

  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Abilities

Hand and Finger Use

  • keep your arm or hand steady
  • hold or move items with your hands

Ideas and Logic

  • notice when problems happen
  • order or arrange things

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

They do well at jobs that need:

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Cooperation
  • Independence
  • Integrity

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Computer aided design CAD software

  • 3D Systems Geomagic Design X
  • Autodesk AutoCAD Hot Technology

Computer aided manufacturing CAM software

  • Delcam PowerMILL
  • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel Hot Technology

Education

Education: (rated 3 of 5)
some college or
high school diploma/GED
usually needed

Get started on your career:

Find Training
Apprenticeship.gov

Job Outlook

Below Average
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
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