Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic: Career & Application Guide

What do patternmakers, metal and plastic do?

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

This describes a U.S. occupation, not a live vacancy. Individual employers may use different titles and requirements.

O*NET reports these titles for this occupation. Compare the responsibilities in each posting before treating titles as equivalent.

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.

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