Pattern Maker

Your Fit

Income

$54K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

-21.6%

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

What is a Pattern Maker?

Pattern Makers are skilled professionals who design and construct full-scale models, or patterns, primarily used in the casting process of manufacturing. They create these patterns out of wood, metal, or plastic, ensuring precision and adherence to specific design specifications.

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The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Pattern Maker.

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Test scores

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

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How much does a Pattern Maker earn

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

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$39K per year	$48K per year	$54K per year	$67K per year	$80K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $5.04K above the national average.

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What does a Pattern Maker do?

Work environment

Pattern Makers typically work in manufacturing plants, foundries, or specialized pattern shops. The environment is a workshop setting, often with considerable noise and the presence of machinery and tools. Safety precautions are necessary due to the use of power tools and potentially hazardous materials.

Quick task list

Designs and constructs patterns based on blueprints and technical drawings.
Selects appropriate materials and tools for pattern construction.
Carves, shapes, and assembles pattern components.
Inspects completed patterns for accuracy and quality.
Collaborates with engineers and designers to modify and refine patterns.

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Areas of specialization

Wood Pattern Making: Specializing in creating patterns from various types of wood.
Metal Pattern Making: Focusing on patterns made from metals for specific casting processes.
Plastic Pattern Making: Utilizing plastics to create lightweight and versatile patterns.
Foundry Pattern Making: Specializing in patterns specifically for use in foundry casting processes.
Prototype Pattern Making: Creating one-off patterns for prototype development.

Description

Pattern Makers play a critical role in the manufacturing process, especially in industries where precise casting is essential. Their work bridges the gap between design and manufacturing, turning design concepts into practical, physical models. This requires not only technical skill and precision but also an understanding of the properties of various materials and how they behave during the casting process. Pattern Makers need to be adept at reading and interpreting complex blueprints and must have a keen eye for detail to ensure that the patterns they produce accurately reflect the intended design.

The job involves a mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. While much of the work is hands-on, involving carving and assembly, Pattern Makers also increasingly use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. This blend of old and new techniques requires adaptability and a willingness to learn and evolve with new technological advancements in the field.

The profession is suited to those who enjoy both the creative and technical aspects of manufacturing. It offers the satisfaction of seeing a product move from a concept to a tangible object that forms the basis for mass production. Pattern Makers often work closely with other professionals in manufacturing, including engineers and designers, which requires good communication and teamwork skills.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The pride in creating essential components that are fundamental to the manufacturing process.
The blend of creativity and technical skill in crafting precise and functional patterns.
Seeing the direct impact of one's work in the production of a wide range of products.

You might make a good Pattern Maker if you are...

Detail-oriented, with a strong focus on accuracy and precision in your work.
Skilled in working with your hands and comfortable using a variety of tools and machinery.
Able to interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
Creative, with an ability to visualize complex three-dimensional shapes.
Interested in a career that combines artistic craftsmanship with industrial production.

Pros:

Opportunity to work in a highly specialized field with a blend of art and engineering.
Satisfaction in contributing to the creation of diverse products.
Potential for career growth and development with advancements in manufacturing technologies.

Cons:

The work can be physically demanding and may require standing for long periods.
Risk of injury from working with power tools and machinery.
May involve repetitive tasks and attention to minute details.

How to become a Pattern Maker

Typical education

Most Pattern Makers have a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in pattern making, which can be obtained through vocational schools or apprenticeships. This specialized training usually lasts 1-2 years. Some may also pursue further education in industrial design or engineering.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in woodworking, metalworking, or drafting.
Mathematics for understanding geometric dimensions and measurements.
Art and design to develop spatial awareness and creativity.
Computer science, particularly CAD courses, for digital design skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining clubs or groups focused on crafting, robotics, or engineering.
Participating in workshops or maker fairs to gain hands-on experience.
Engaging in DIY projects or hobbies that involve building and creating.

Preparation after high school

Vocational or technical school programs in pattern making, industrial design, or related fields.
Apprenticeships in manufacturing or pattern shops for practical experience.
Additional courses or certifications in CAD/CAM technology and CNC machining.

More resources

American Foundry Society (AFS) - Offers resources and information related to foundry and pattern making.
Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) - Provides educational materials and networking opportunities in manufacturing engineering.
International Association of Patternmakers - A professional organization offering support and resources for pattern makers.
CAD Software Training Resources (e.g., Lynda.com) - Online courses for learning CAD software skills.

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