Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic

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  Production Occupations

Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic

Also Called: Die Cast Die Maker, Fixture Builder, Layout Technician, Metal Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker Programmer, Pattern Repair Person, Patternmaker, Wax Molder, Die Cast Die Maker, Fixture Builder, Layout Technician, Metal Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker Programmer, Pattern Repair Person, Patternmaker, Wax Molder

What they do

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

$36,280
Starting Salary (2023)
$49,670
Median Salary (2023)
-21.6%
Projected Job Growth
2,150
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.
Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
Repair and rework templates and patterns.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Stress Tolerance
Cooperation
Independence
Integrity

What key skills are needed for this job?

Operations Monitoring
Operation and Control
Quality Control Analysis
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking

Expected Knowledge

Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

More Info

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