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.
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
Compare with another occupationCompare with Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Job Zone
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 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.
- 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 supplementalWhat people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).
- 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
- Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.Importance 4.5
- Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.Importance 4.3
- Repair and rework templates and patterns.Importance 4.1
- Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.Importance 4.1
- Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.Importance 4.0
- Design and create templates, patterns, or coreboxes according to work orders, sample parts, or mockups.Importance 4.0
- Lay out and draw or scribe patterns onto material, using compasses, protractors, rulers, scribes, or other instruments.Importance 4.0
- Mark identification numbers or symbols onto patterns or templates.Importance 4.0
- Construct platforms, fixtures, and jigs for holding and placing patterns.Importance 3.8
- Select pattern materials such as wood, resin, and fiberglass.Importance 3.6
- Paint or lacquer patterns.Importance 3.3
Show the other 3
- Program computerized numerical control machine tools.Importance 4.0
- Create computer models of patterns or parts, using modeling software.Importance 3.9
- 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
Show all 52
- 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.
Technology
6 toolsSoftware 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.
Closest occupations
Compare any occupation →Other O*NET occupations whose importance ratings on the 35 skills both rate are nearest to this one's, with the biggest differences named. A plain rule, not a hidden score.
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Average difference 0.2 points · Quality Control Analysis −0.8, Programming −0.8
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Etchers and Engravers
Average difference 0.2 points · Science −0.5, Management of Financial Resources +0.4
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Model Makers, Wood
Average difference 0.2 points · Operations Analysis +0.9, Programming −0.9
O*NET · Zone 3 · Compare
Stone Cutters and Carvers, Manufacturing
Average difference 0.2 points · Operation and Control −0.8, Quality Control Analysis −0.7
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Pourers and Casters, Metal
Average difference 0.2 points · Management of Material Resources +0.6, Programming −0.6
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Average difference 0.2 points · Programming −0.9, Troubleshooting +0.7
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Average difference 0.2 points · Operations Monitoring +0.8, Installation +0.6
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers
Average difference 0.2 points · Writing +1.2, Quality Control Analysis +0.7
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
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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.