Production
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Also called: Die Cast Die Maker, Fixture Builder, Journeyman Patternmaker, Layout Technician (Layout Tech)
US median pay
$58,000
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
-22.8%
declining
Openings a year (US)
100
1,500 employed
Typical entry education
High school diploma or equivalent
Preparation 3/5 · Medium preparation
What this job is
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
What they do day to day
- 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 and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Operation and Control3.2/5
- Quality Control Analysis3.1/5
- Operations Monitoring3.1/5
- Time Management3.0/5
- Complex Problem Solving2.9/5
- Social Perceptiveness2.8/5
- Judgment and Decision Making2.8/5
- Coordination2.6/5
Knowledge
- Mathematics4.1/5
- Design4.0/5
- Engineering and Technology4.0/5
- Mechanical3.9/5
- Production and Processing3.9/5
- English Language2.8/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 3 of 5 — Medium preparation. Usually vocational training, an associate's degree or an apprenticeship.
Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent.
Who this job suits
Mostly Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Artistic
Creating, designing and self-expression
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.