Patternmakers (Metal and Plastic)
O*NET title: 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: Acoustical Tile Patternmaker, All-Around Patternmaker, Computer Patternmaker, Die Cast Die Maker, Die Technician, Extrusion Die Template Maker
Median pay
$58,000
per year, U.S.
Pay range (10th–90th)
$42,460 – $82,590
People employed
1,470
Holland code
RCA
Realistic · Conventional · Artistic
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Would you rather not deal with customers or the public?
- 2.Do you prefer working indoors?
- 3.Are you happy working mostly on your own, with little contact with others?
- 4.Are you OK with physical risk, such as hazardous equipment or conditions, with proper training?
- 5.Do you prefer doing your own work rather than directing others?
- 6.Are you comfortable following clear instructions?
The hard parts
- Tight deadlines are common
- Long hours on your feet
Patternmakers (Metal and Plastic) pay by state
Annual median pay by state (12 states with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025.
What patternmakers (metal and plastic) do
- 01Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
- 02Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
- 03Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
- 04Repair and rework templates and patterns.
- 05Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.
- 06Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
Skills that matter most
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Monitoring
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Active Learning
Knowledge
- Mathematics
- Design
- Engineering and Technology
- Mechanical
- Production and Processing
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
Education and first steps
O*NET has no education survey data for this job.
How people get started
- Usually needs vocational training or an associate degree (O*NET Job Zone 3).
- Related work experience: over 4 years, up to and including 6 years.
- On-the-job training: over 6 months, up to and including 1 year.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from patternmakers (metal and plastic)
- Patternmakers, Wood85% · −14%
- Model Makers, Wood82% · −2%
- Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters80% · −12%
- Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers77% · +8%
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians74% · +28%
Change into patternmakers (metal and plastic)
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Patternmakers, Wood87% · $49,630
- Model Makers, Wood85% · $56,550
- Etchers and Engravers84% · $43,310
- Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers77% · $62,750
- Prepress Technicians and Workers76% · $48,690
Majors that lead here
- Sheet Metal Technology/Sheetworking
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.