CFChooseField
Production

Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic

Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
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Median pay

$54,540
Median annual pay for Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

-24.4%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

100
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

1,600
Estimated U.S. employment for Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

-400
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

High school diploma or equivalent
Typical additional preparation: Moderate-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Active Listening
  2. 2Critical Thinking
  3. 3Monitoring
  4. 4Reading Comprehension
  5. 5Speaking
  6. 6Active Learning

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Production and Processing
  2. 2Mechanical
  3. 3Mathematics
  4. 4Design
  5. 5Engineering and Technology
  6. 6Customer and Personal Service

Abilities

  1. 1Near Vision
  2. 2Arm-Hand Steadiness
  3. 3Control Precision
  4. 4Manual Dexterity
  5. 5Problem Sensitivity
  6. 6Visualization

Career interests

  1. 1Realistic
  2. 2Conventional
  3. 3Artistic
  4. 4Investigative
  5. 5Enterprising
  6. 6Social

Work styles

  1. 1Attention to Detail
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Cautiousness
  4. 4Achievement Orientation
  5. 5Perseverance
  6. 6Integrity

Work activities

  1. 1Controlling Machines and Processes
  2. 2Getting Information
  3. 3Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  4. 4Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  5. 5Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  6. 6Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Work context

  1. 1Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  2. 2Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  3. 3Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
  4. 4Time Pressure
  5. 5Contact With Others
  6. 6Exposed to Contaminants

Representative tasks

  • 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.
  • Mark identification numbers or symbols onto patterns or templates.

Software and tools

Autodesk AutoCAD · hot technologyMicrosoft Excel · hot technologyMicrosoft Outlook · hot technology3D Systems Geomagic Design XDelcam PowerMILLMastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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