- Home
- My Career Path
- Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Also called : Die Cast Die Maker, Fixture Builder, Layout Technician, Metal Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker, Pattern Maker Programmer, Pattern Repair Person, Patternmaker, Wax Molder
What they do
Lay out, machine, fit, and assemble castings and parts to metal or plastic foundry patterns, core boxes, or match plates.
On the job, one would
- Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
- Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
- Repair and rework templates and patterns.
- Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
- Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
KNOWLEDGE
- Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
- Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
- Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
SKILLS
- Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
- Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
- Quality Control Analysis
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
- Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
ABILITIES
- Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
- Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
- Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
- Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
- Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
PERSONALITY
People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;
- Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
- Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
- Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
- Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
- Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
- Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
- Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
- Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
- Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
- Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Related Occupations
- Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Model Makers, Wood
- Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
- Tool and Die Makers
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
- Machinists
- Glass Blowers, Molders, Benders, and Finishers
- Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
- Patternmakers, Wood
TECHNOLOGY
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Electronic mail software
- Spreadsheet software
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
- Preparation
Medium Preparation Needed
- Education
Training in vocational schools or an Associate deg
- Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.
- Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.