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 · Layout Technician · Metal Pattern Maker · Pattern Maker · Pattern Maker Programmer
Median pay (national)
$54,540
$39,150–$79,690 (10th–90th)
Employed (US)
1,570
BLS OEWS, May 2024
Outlook 2024–34
-24.4%
~100 openings/yr
Typical entry
High school diploma or equivalent
What the numbers say
Refit analysis ·Pay for patternmakers, metal and plastic shows a broad range: the top 10% earn $79,690 versus $39,150 at the bottom 10% — 2.0x. The median of $54,540 leaves roughly 46% of headroom to the 90th percentile, which is where seniority, specialization, and the skills below tend to pay off.
Refit analysis ·Employment is projected to change -24.4% from 2024 to 2034 — a projected decline, against +3% across all occupations. Even so, BLS projects about 100 openings a year, mostly to replace workers who retire or change careers.
Refit analysis ·Where you work moves the number a lot. Across the 15 states with released data, Illinois pays the most for this role (median $80,190, +47% vs the national median), while North Carolina sits lowest at $37,970 — a 111% spread for the same job title.
Refit analysis ·O*NET rates Reading Comprehension, Active Listening, Speaking as the highest-importance skills here — so a resume aimed at this role should lead with evidence of those, not a generic skills list.
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Top skills employers ask for
Ranked by O*NET importance for this occupation.
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Active Learning
- Mathematics
- Writing
- Learning Strategies
- Science
What they actually do
Core O*NET tasks for this role.
- 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.
- Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
- Mark identification numbers or symbols onto patterns or templates.
- Repair and rework templates and patterns.
- 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.
- Program computerized numerical control machine tools.
- Create computer models of patterns or parts, using modeling software.
Tools & technology
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- 3D Systems Geomagic Design X
- Delcam PowerMILL
- Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
Knowledge areas
- Production and Processing
- Mechanical
- Mathematics
- Design
- Engineering and Technology
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- English Language