Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Production
Foundry patterns, core boxes, and match plates are the forms used to shape molds for castings, and this work is making those forms to drawing. Dimensions are read from blueprints, computed, and checked with calipers, scales, and micrometers. Milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders cut the pieces; sections are then fitted and assembled with bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welds. Platforms, fixtures, and jigs get built to hold the patterns, and surfaces are cleaned and finished with files, scrapers, and grinders before identification marks go on. The work favors careful layout, machining, and fitting so each pattern matches the drawing.
Typical education: Some College Courses
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$58'000
Median Wage Market Position
$58'000
What you might do
- Read drawings and figure pattern dimensions
- Machine patterns on mills, lathes, and grinders
- Check pattern sizes with calipers and micrometers
- Assemble pattern sections with bolts or welds
- Build fixtures and jigs to hold patterns
- Repair worn or inaccurate templates and patterns
Skills that matter
- Machining foundry patterns to the drawing
- Verifying sizes with calipers and micrometers
- Interpreting blueprints and computing dimensions
- Assembling pattern sections with bolts or welds
- Repairing templates that no longer match
- Building fixtures that hold patterns in place
AI & the future of this role
Digital design and 3D printing can generate patterns and molds that once required long layout and machining cycles. Assembly and foundry fit still need tactile skill, but software-led pattern work may erode a large slice of traditional demand.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details