Wood Patternmaker

Your Fit

Income

$52K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

-5.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Wood Patternmaker?

Wood Patternmakers are skilled artisans who create full-size models and templates (patterns) from wood, which are used in foundries and manufacturing to cast metal parts. Their work combines craftsmanship with precision to ensure that the patterns they create lead to accurate final products.

Sample job titles:

Mold Maker, Pattern Maker, Patternmaker, Wood Pattern Maker

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Wood Patternmaker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Wood Patternmaker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$41K per year	$45K per year	$52K per year	$77K per year	$83K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $3.02K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Wood Patternmaker do?

Work environment

Patternmakers typically work in manufacturing settings, particularly in foundries, machine shops, or specialized pattern shops. The environment can be workshop-based, requiring the use of various hand and power tools. Attention to safety and detail is essential due to the nature of the work and the materials used.

Quick task list

Designs and creates wooden patterns based on blueprints or specifications.
Uses a variety of hand and power tools to cut, shape, and finish wood.
Inspects and repairs existing patterns.
Collaborates with foundry workers and engineers to ensure accuracy.
Maintains tools and equipment.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Foundry Patternmaking: Creating complex patterns for metal casting in foundries.
Precision Woodworking: Specializing in highly detailed and accurate woodworking.
Prototype Development: Creating patterns for new product prototypes.
CNC Patternmaking: Using computer-aided design (CAD) and CNC machines to create patterns.

Description

Wood Patternmakers are crucial in the manufacturing process, creating the initial template that ensures the accurate production of metal parts. Their work requires not only technical skill in woodworking but also an understanding of the manufacturing process and the ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and designs.

The role demands a blend of creativity and precision, as patternmakers must envision and produce complex three-dimensional shapes. They must also have a strong understanding of wood properties and the effects of temperature and humidity on wood, as these factors can impact the final product.

As technology evolves, patternmakers increasingly use CAD and CNC machines, requiring them to stay updated with new techniques and tools. However, traditional hand skills remain vital, as much of the work still involves manual craftsmanship.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The creative aspect of designing and building unique patterns.
The satisfaction of contributing to the creation of precise and quality products.
The blend of hands-on work and technical skill required.
Opportunities for continuous learning and skills development.

You might make a good Wood Patternmaker if you are...

Detail-oriented with a passion for precision and craftsmanship.
Skilled in working with your hands and using tools.
Interested in technical drawing and design.
Able to visualize complex three-dimensional objects.
Keen on working in a manufacturing or workshop setting.

Pros:

High demand in various manufacturing sectors.
Opportunities to work on diverse and interesting projects.
Sense of pride in creating essential components for products.

Cons:

Potential for repetitive tasks.
Physical demands of working with wood and tools.
Need to continuously update skills with evolving technology.

How to become a Wood Patternmaker

Typical education

Generally, a high school diploma is required, followed by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Some may opt for an associate degree or specialized courses in woodworking or pattern making.

High school preparation

Courses:

Woodshop and carpentry classes.
Technical drawing and CAD courses.
Mathematics for precise measurements and calculations.
Physics to understand material properties.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a woodworking or maker's club.
Participating in design or craft competitions.
Volunteering for community projects that involve building or carpentry.

Preparation after high school

Apprenticeships in patternmaking or woodworking.
Vocational training in carpentry or manufacturing technology.
Courses in CAD and CNC operation.
Associate degree programs in industrial technology or manufacturing.

More resources

American Patternmakers Association - Industry news and resources.
Society of Manufacturing Engineers - Educational materials and networking opportunities.
Woodworking Network - Articles and forums on woodworking techniques and technology.
Online Woodworking Courses - Tutorials and classes for skill development.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.