Patternmakers, Wood

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About the Job

Plan, lay out, and construct wooden unit or sectional patterns used in forming sand molds for castings.

It is also Called

  • Apprentice Pattern Maker
  • Journeyman Patternmaker
  • Model Maker
  • Mold Forms Builder
  • Mold Maker
  • Pattern Maker
  • Pattern Worker
  • Patternmaker
  • Wood Die Maker
  • Wood Experimental Mechanic

What They Do

  • Read blueprints, drawings, or written specifications to determine sizes and shapes of patterns and required machine setups.
  • 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.
  • Verify dimensions of completed patterns, using templates, straightedges, calipers, and/or protractors.
  • Set up, operate, and adjust a variety of woodworking machines such as bandsaws and lathes to cut and shape sections, parts, and patterns, according to specifications.
  • Trim, smooth, and shape surfaces, and plane, shave, file, scrape, and sand models to attain specified shapes, using hand tools.
  • Fit, fasten, and assemble wood parts together to form patterns, models, or sections, using glue, nails, dowels, bolts, and screws.
  • Correct patterns to compensate for defects in castings.
  • Construct wooden models, templates, full scale mock-ups, jigs, and/or molds for shaping parts of products.
  • Compute dimensions, areas, volumes, and weights.
  • Mark identifying information such as colors or codes on patterns, parts, and templates to indicate assembly methods.

Interests

People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: RIA.

This means people who work in this occupation generally have Realistic interests, but also prefer Investigative and Artistic environments.

Work Values

People who work in this occupation generally prize Support, but also value Relationships and Independence in their jobs.

Things They Need to Know

  • Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
  • Mechanical - Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • 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.
  • Production and Processing - Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

Things They Need to Be Able to Do

  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Operations Analysis - Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • 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.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

Education Required

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Wages

In 2012, the average annual wage in California was $39,360 with most people making between $25,710 and $47,580

Outlook

During 2008, this occupation employed approximately n/a people in California. It is projected that there will be - employed in 2018.

This occupation will have approximately - job openings annually.



California Career Resource Network