Occupation AtlasPatternmakers, Metal and Plastic

O*NET · 51-4062.00

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 · Fixture Builder · Foundry Patternmaker
19 more

Freelance Patternmaker · Journeyman Patternmaker · Layout Tech · Layout Technician (Layout Tech) · Loftsman · Metal Bench Patternmaker · Metal Mold Maker · Metal Patternmaker · Metal Products Patternmaker · Model Maker · Mold Maker · Pattern Fitter · Pattern Mechanic · Pattern Repair Person · Pattern Scratcher · Pattern Worker · Plaster Patternmaker · Stonework Patternmaker · Wax Molder

Job Zone 3 — Medium Preparation NeededHolland code RCA35 skills on file

Compare with another occupationCompare with Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

Job Zone

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Zone 3: Medium Preparation Needed

Medium preparation. Vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or an associate degree, with one to two years of training that combines experience and informal instruction.

Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.

Occupational interest profile

RCARealistic · Conventional · Artistic — the three strongest interests, in order

  • R Realistic6.21
  • C Conventional4.21
  • A Artistic3.37
  • I Investigative1.73
  • S Social1.00
  • E Enterprising1.00

RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.

Education and experience

The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.

  • Less than a High School Diploma4%
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent33%
  • Post-Secondary Certificate27%
  • Some College Courses4%
  • Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree32%
Related work experience
Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years (30%)
On-site or in-plant training
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year (25%)
On-the-job training
Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year (38%)

Typically associated skills

All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.

  • Operation and ControlImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Navigate the settings on an office printer to print on both sides of the paper
  • Operations MonitoringImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Monitor machine functions on an automated production line
  • Quality Control AnalysisImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Assess new parts for precision and accuracy to specifications
  • Critical ThinkingbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Determine whether a subordinate has a good excuse for being late
  • Reading ComprehensionbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Read step-by-step instructions for completing a form
  • MonitoringbasicImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Proofread and correct a letter
  • Active ListeningbasicImportance 3.0Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Take a customer's order
  • SpeakingbasicImportance 3.0Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Greet tourists and explain tourist attractions
  • Time ManagementImportance 3.0Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
  • Complex Problem SolvingImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Lay out tools to complete a job
  • Judgment and Decision MakingImportance 2.8Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
  • Social PerceptivenessImportance 2.8Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
Show the other 23
  • CoordinationImportance 2.6Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Schedule appointments for a medical clinic
  • Active LearningbasicImportance 2.6Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Think about the implications of a news article for job opportunities
  • Equipment MaintenanceImportance 2.4Level 2.3Level 2 looks like: Add oil to an engine as indicated by a warning light
  • MathematicsbasicImportance 2.3Level 2.4Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
  • TroubleshootingImportance 2.3Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machine
  • Systems AnalysisImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Determine how loss of a team member will affect the completion of a job
  • WritingbasicImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Write down a guest's order at a restaurant
  • Service OrientationImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Ask customers if they would like a cup of coffee
  • Management of Personnel ResourcesImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
  • NegotiationImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
  • PersuasionImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
  • RepairingImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 2 looks like: Tighten a screw to get a door to close properly
  • Equipment SelectionImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Select a tool to adjust a loose part on a bicycle
  • InstructingImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Instruct a new employee in the use of a timekeeping system
  • Learning StrategiesbasicImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Learn a different method of completing a task from a coworker
  • Systems EvaluationImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Determine why estimates for the time to complete a task are overly optimistic
  • Operations AnalysisImportance 2.0Level 1.8Level 2 looks like: Select a printer for an office
  • Technology DesignImportance 1.9Level 1.8Level 2 looks like: Adjust exercise equipment for use by a customer
  • ProgrammingImportance 1.9Level 1.0Level 2 looks like: Write a program to sort objects in a database
  • SciencebasicImportance 1.6Level 0.8
  • Management of Material ResourcesImportance 1.5Level 0.8
  • Management of Financial ResourcesImportance 1.5Level 0.6
  • InstallationImportance 1.0Level —

Tasks

12 core · 3 supplemental

What people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).

  1. Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.Importance 4.6
  2. Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.Importance 4.5
  3. Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.Importance 4.3
  4. Repair and rework templates and patterns.Importance 4.1
  5. Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.Importance 4.1
  6. Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.Importance 4.0
  7. Design and create templates, patterns, or coreboxes according to work orders, sample parts, or mockups.Importance 4.0
  8. Lay out and draw or scribe patterns onto material, using compasses, protractors, rulers, scribes, or other instruments.Importance 4.0
  9. Mark identification numbers or symbols onto patterns or templates.Importance 4.0
  10. Construct platforms, fixtures, and jigs for holding and placing patterns.Importance 3.8
  11. Select pattern materials such as wood, resin, and fiberglass.Importance 3.6
  12. Paint or lacquer patterns.Importance 3.3
Show the other 3
  1. Program computerized numerical control machine tools.Importance 4.0
  2. Create computer models of patterns or parts, using modeling software.Importance 3.9
  3. Apply plastic-impregnated fabrics or coats of sealing wax or lacquer to patterns used to produce plastic.Importance 3.2

Knowledge

Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.

  • MathematicsImportance 4.1Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Analyze data to determine areas with the highest sales
  • DesignImportance 4.0Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Design plans for remodeling a kitchen
  • Engineering and TechnologyImportance 4.0Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Design a custom office chair
  • MechanicalImportance 3.9Level 4.8Level 4 looks like: Replace a valve on a steam pipe
  • Production and ProcessingImportance 3.9Level 4.5Level 4 looks like: Supervise an appliance assembly line
  • English LanguageImportance 2.8Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Edit an article for a news website
  • Administration and ManagementImportance 2.7Level 2.7
  • Computers and ElectronicsImportance 2.7Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Use a computer to format a document
Show all 33
  • Customer and Personal ServiceImportance 2.7Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Be responsible for 10 children at daycare
  • Education and TrainingImportance 2.7Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Lead a quality improvement seminar
  • Personnel and Human ResourcesImportance 2.4Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
  • Building and ConstructionImportance 2.2Level 2.1Level 1 looks like: Choose the proper type of wood for adding a deck onto a house
  • Public Safety and SecurityImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
  • AdministrativeImportance 2.0Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Direct phone calls to the appropriate staff member
  • Economics and AccountingImportance 2.0Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Answer billing questions from credit card customers
  • PhysicsImportance 2.0Level 1.7Level 1 looks like: Use a crowbar to pry open a box
  • PsychologyImportance 1.8Level 1.6Level 1 looks like: Monitor several children on a playground
  • Sales and MarketingImportance 1.8Level 1.7Level 1 looks like: Sell cakes at a bake sale
  • ChemistryImportance 1.7Level 1.3Level 1 looks like: Use a common household bug spray
  • Foreign LanguageImportance 1.5Level —
  • Communications and MediaImportance 1.3Level —
  • Philosophy and TheologyImportance 1.3Level —
  • TelecommunicationsImportance 1.3Level —
  • Therapy and CounselingImportance 1.3Level —
  • TransportationImportance 1.3Level —
  • Fine ArtsImportance 1.2Level —
  • Law and GovernmentImportance 1.2Level —
  • Food ProductionImportance 1.1Level —
  • History and ArcheologyImportance 1.1Level —
  • Sociology and AnthropologyImportance 1.1Level —
  • BiologyImportance 1.0Level —
  • GeographyImportance 1.0Level —
  • Medicine and DentistryImportance 1.0Level —

Abilities

Enduring capacities the work calls for.

  • Near VisionImportance 3.9Level 3.9
  • Arm-Hand SteadinessImportance 3.8Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Thread a needle
  • Manual DexterityImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Pack oranges in crates as quickly as possible
  • VisualizationImportance 3.3Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Follow a diagram to assemble a metal storage cabinet
  • Control PrecisionImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Adjust farm tractor controls
  • Deductive ReasoningImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
  • Finger DexterityImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Attach small dials to audio equipment on an assembly line
  • Information OrderingImportance 3.1Level 3.3Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
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  • Oral ExpressionImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Give instructions to a lost motorist
  • Problem SensitivityImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Notice from a subtle difference in a client's mood that something is bothering them
  • Selective AttentionImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Watch security monitors for intruders throughout the night shift
  • Category FlexibilityImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
  • Inductive ReasoningImportance 3.0Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Decide what to wear based on the weather report
  • Multilimb CoordinationImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Row a boat
  • Oral ComprehensionImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Understand a television commercial
  • Perceptual SpeedImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Sort mail according to ZIP codes with no time pressure
  • Speech ClarityImportance 3.0Level 2.9
  • Speech RecognitionImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
  • Written ComprehensionImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Understand signs on the highway
  • Far VisionImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
  • Visual Color DiscriminationImportance 2.9Level 2.9
  • Written ExpressionImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Write a job recommendation for a subordinate
  • Flexibility of ClosureImportance 2.8Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
  • Fluency of IdeasImportance 2.8Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Name four different uses for a screwdriver
  • Time SharingImportance 2.8Level 2.8Level 3 looks like: Watch street signs while driving at 30 miles an hour
  • Auditory AttentionImportance 2.6Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Listen to a lecture while people nearby are talking
  • OriginalityImportance 2.6Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Use a credit card to open a locked door
  • Hearing SensitivityImportance 2.5Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Notice a doorbell ringing
  • Mathematical ReasoningImportance 2.5Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Determine how much 20 oranges will cost when they are priced at 5 for 4 dollars
  • Number FacilityImportance 2.5Level 2.3Level 3 looks like: Calculate a discounted price
  • Reaction TimeImportance 2.5Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Start to slow down the car when a traffic light turns yellow
  • Trunk StrengthImportance 2.3Level 2.4Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
  • Depth PerceptionImportance 2.1Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Merge a car into traffic on a city street
  • Extent FlexibilityImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Reach to adjust the radio in a car
  • MemorizationImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
  • Speed of ClosureImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
  • Static StrengthImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Push an empty shopping cart
  • Wrist-Finger SpeedImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
  • Dynamic StrengthImportance 2.0Level 1.9Level 2 looks like: Use pruning shears to trim a bush
  • Explosive StrengthImportance 2.0Level 1.4Level 2 looks like: Hit a nail with a hammer
  • Glare SensitivityImportance 2.0Level 1.1Level 2 looks like: Drive on a familiar road on a cloudy day
  • Gross Body CoordinationImportance 2.0Level 1.6Level 2 looks like: Get in and out of a truck
  • Gross Body EquilibriumImportance 2.0Level 1.3Level 2 looks like: Stand on a ladder
  • Peripheral VisionImportance 2.0Level 1.0Level 2 looks like: Keep in step while marching in a band
  • Rate ControlImportance 2.0Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Ride a bicycle alongside a jogger
  • Response OrientationImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: When a doorbell and phone ring at the same time, quickly select which to answer first
  • Spatial OrientationImportance 2.0Level 1.1Level 2 looks like: Use the floor plan to locate a store in a mall
  • StaminaImportance 2.0Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Walk 1/4 mile
  • Night VisionImportance 1.9Level 0.9
  • Sound LocalizationImportance 1.9Level 0.9
  • Speed of Limb MovementImportance 1.6Level 0.6
  • Dynamic FlexibilityImportance 1.0Level —

Work activities

Kinds of activity the work is made of.

  • Getting InformationImportance 4.3Level 3.7Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesImportance 4.2Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
  • Controlling Machines and ProcessesImportance 4.2Level 5.6
  • Making Decisions and Solving ProblemsImportance 4.2Level 4.7Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsImportance 4.1Level 4.3Level 4 looks like: Evaluate a complicated insurance claim for compliance with policy terms
  • Processing InformationImportance 4.1Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
  • Documenting/Recording InformationImportance 4.0Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and EventsImportance 4.0Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Judge the suitability of food products for an event
Show all 41
  • Handling and Moving ObjectsImportance 3.9Level 5.5Level 4 looks like: Arrange books in a library
  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsImportance 3.9Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentImportance 3.8Level 4.5Level 4 looks like: Specify the furniture and equipment for a new school
  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsImportance 3.8Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Inspect equipment in a chemical processing plant
  • Working with ComputersImportance 3.8Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
  • Analyzing Data or InformationImportance 3.7Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Determine the interest cost to finance a new building
  • Thinking CreativelyImportance 3.7Level 4.7Level 4 looks like: Adapt popular music for a high school marching band
  • Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeImportance 3.7Level 4.8Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentImportance 3.6Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Drive an 18-wheel tractor-trailer
  • Performing General Physical ActivitiesImportance 3.6Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Paint the outside of a house
  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentImportance 3.6Level 4.5Level 4 looks like: Change the oil on a tractor
  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersImportance 3.5Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Interpret how foreign tax laws apply to U.S. exports
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkImportance 3.5Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of OthersImportance 3.3Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Organize the cleanup crew after a major sporting event
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsImportance 3.3Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationImportance 3.2Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Estimate the time required to evacuate a city in the event of a major disaster
  • Scheduling Work and ActivitiesImportance 3.2Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Prepare the work schedule for salesclerks in a large retail store
  • Developing Objectives and StrategiesImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Develop the plan to complete the merger of two organizations over a 3-year period
  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleImportance 3.1Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
  • Performing Administrative ActivitiesImportance 3.1Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Complete tax forms for a small business
  • Communicating with People Outside the OrganizationImportance 3.0Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Present information to potential clients about available services
  • Monitoring and Controlling ResourcesImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Work as a chef responsible for ordering food for the menu
  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentImportance 2.9Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Make repairs by removing and replacing circuit boards
  • Training and Teaching OthersImportance 2.9Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
  • Coaching and Developing OthersImportance 2.6Level 2.6
  • Providing Consultation and Advice to OthersImportance 2.6Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Recommend a new software package to increase operational efficiency
  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersImportance 2.6Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Apologize to a customer who complains about waiting too long
  • Selling or Influencing OthersImportance 2.6Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Convince a coworker to assist with an assignment
  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesImportance 2.5Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Work occasionally as a backup supervisor
  • Developing and Building TeamsImportance 2.4Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Encourage two coworkers to stick with a tough assignment
  • Assisting and Caring for OthersImportance 2.3Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Help a coworker complete an assignment
  • Performing for or Working Directly with the PublicImportance 1.8Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Check tickets at a concert
  • Staffing Organizational UnitsImportance 1.8Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that has minimal staffing requirements

Work context

The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.

  • Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets5.0
  • Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls4.9
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate4.7
  • Exposed to Contaminants4.5
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams4.5
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team4.5
  • Exposed to Hazardous Equipment4.2
  • Time Pressure4.1
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled4.0
  • Spend Time Standing4.0

Technology

6 tools

Software used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.

Hot (3)

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook
Other tools (3)
  • 3D Systems Geomagic Design X
  • Delcam PowerMILL
  • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software

Related occupations

O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.

ESCO equivalents

From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.