Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic

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

Also called: Die Cast Die Maker, Fixture Builder, Journeyman Patternmaker, Layout Technician (Layout Tech), Metal Mold Maker, Metal Patternmaker, Model Maker, Mold Maker, Pattern Repair Person, Wax Molder, Acoustical Tile Patternmaker, All-Around Patternmaker, Computer Patternmaker, Die Technician, Extrusion Die Template Maker, Foundry Patternmaker, Freelance Patternmaker, Loftsman, Metal Bench Patternmaker, Metal Products Patternmaker, Pattern Fitter, Pattern Mechanic, Pattern Scratcher, Pattern Worker, Plaster Patternmaker, Stonework Patternmaker

This is a career information profile, not an advertised job opening.

What the worker does

Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
Repair and rework templates and patterns.
Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.
Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
Mark identification numbers or symbols onto patterns or templates.
Lay out and draw or scribe patterns onto material, using compasses, protractors, rulers, scribes, or other instruments.
Design and create templates, patterns, or coreboxes according to work orders, sample parts, or mockups.
Construct platforms, fixtures, and jigs for holding and placing patterns.

Skills, machines and equipment

Operation and Control
Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Operations Monitoring
Quality Control Analysis
Active Listening
Speaking
Monitoring
Time Management
Complex Problem Solving
Social Perceptiveness
Judgment and Decision Making

Education and training

Most frequently reported education in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED) (33.31% of responses). This is survey context, not a universal hiring requirement. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

O*NET Job Zone 3: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. 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. This is broad occupational preparation context; confirm the requirements for a specific employer or apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships

Ask an employer or registered apprenticeship sponsor about current programs, eligibility, training and pay. A career profile does not confirm that a program is available.

Salary reference

49,070–69,960 USD per year · United States · 2025. Source: BLS OEWS via O*NET · 25th–75th percentiles · SOC 51-4062.

Occupational-group wage references are not guaranteed pay for this specialty or an employer's offer.

Career advancement

Explore setup, CNC programming, precision tooling, or process-improvement responsibilities after demonstrating safe, accurate machining.
Ask employers which demonstrated skills, education, or credentials are needed for the next role. Related careers are exploration options, not automatic promotions.

How Do I Get This Job?

Review the skills and responsibilities above.
Most frequently reported education in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED) (33.31% of responses). This is survey context, not a universal hiring requirement. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
O*NET Job Zone 3: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. 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. This is broad occupational preparation context; confirm the requirements for a specific employer or apprenticeship.
Compare real openings and confirm requirements directly with the employer.

View available jobs — availability is not guaranteed; sample listings are not real openings.

Related career information

Sources and limitations

O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, under CC BY 4.0. ShopFloor adapted occupational grouping, selected manufacturing-relevant occupations, and retained seven legacy guide titles. Specialties and alternative titles are grouped under O*NET occupations; these occupations can also occur outside manufacturing. Source: https://www.onetcenter.org/database.html. No wage, vacancy, certification, or video data is implied. ShopFloor advancement suggestions are general editorial guidance, not O*NET findings or guaranteed career progression. BLS wage ranges, when available, are national 25th–75th percentiles for the source occupational grouping, across industries; they are not local, apprentice, entry-level, or specialty-specific offers.

Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic