Patternmakers, Wood

Mold Maker
Pattern Engineer
Pattern Maker
Patternmaker
Wood Pattern Maker
Wood Patternmaker
Wood Shop Moldmaker
Woodshop Worker

What is a Patternmakers, Wood?

Patternmakers, Wood are skilled artisans who create patterns and models out of wood for use in the manufacturing process, particularly in the foundry and metalworking industries. They translate engineering designs into precise, three-dimensional wooden patterns that are used to create molds for casting metal parts. These professionals typically work from blueprints and technical drawings, selecting appropriate types of wood and other materials to ensure durability and accuracy in the patterns they produce. Patternmakers must possess a keen understanding of woodworking techniques, tools, and machinery, as well as the ability to measure and shape wood with great precision. Their work is fundamental to the production process, as a well-made pattern contributes to the quality of the final metal product, leading to cost-effective and efficient manufacturing. As technology evolves, patternmakers may also incorporate computer-aided design (CAD) software into their planning and design processes, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.

Career Assessment
Career Assessment

Tasks

  • Read blueprints, drawings, or written specifications to determine sizes and shapes of patterns and required machine setups.
  • Fit, fasten, and assemble wood parts together to form patterns, models, or sections, using glue, nails, dowels, bolts, and screws.
  • Lay out patterns on wood stock and draw outlines of units, sectional patterns, or full-scale mock-ups of products, based on blueprint specifications and sketches, and using marking and measuring devices.
  • Trim, smooth, and shape surfaces, and plane, shave, file, scrape, and sand models to attain specified shapes, using hand tools.
  • Divide patterns into sections according to shapes of castings to facilitate removal of patterns from molds.

Technology Skills

  • Computer aided design CAD software
    • 3D Systems Geomagic Design X
    • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
    • Delcam PowerMILL
    • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software
  • Spreadsheet software
    • Microsoft Excel
  • Electronic mail software
    • Microsoft Outlook
  • Office suite software
    • Microsoft Office software

Tools Used

Knowledge

  • 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.

  • Engineering and Technology

    Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

  • Mechanical

    Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

  • Building and Construction

    Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Skills

  • Complex Problem Solving

    Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

  • Monitoring

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Operation and Control

    Controlling operations of equipment or systems.

  • Operations Monitoring

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

Abilities

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Near Vision

    The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

  • Reaction Time

    The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

  • High school diploma or equivalent
    57 %

    or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate

  • Post-secondary certificate
    26 %

    Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)

  • Some college, no degree
    16 %

Work Activities

  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment

    Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.

  • Thinking Creatively

    Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

  • Controlling Machines and Processes

    Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems

    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

  • Getting Information

    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Detailed Work Activities

  • Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements.
  • Assemble wood products.
  • Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
  • Shape surfaces or edges of wood workpieces.
  • Trim excess material from workpieces.

Work Interests

  • Realistic

    Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

  • Conventional

    Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

  • Artistic

    Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

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Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$38700.0 - $75460.0

New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average

Assessment

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