Careers · Production

Patternmakers, Wood

Patternmakers in wood create wooden patterns used to form sand molds for metal castings. Working primarily in foundries and manufacturing facilities, they plan layouts, construct patterns from wood stock, and ensure precise dimensions so molten metal can be poured into the molds they help create.

$49,630median pay, U.S., per year

$41,170–$59,350middle half earn

220employed in the U.S.

High school diplomatypical education

ModerateAI exposure · AI tools can speed up some tasks; the core of the job stays human.

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A day in the work

A patternmaker might spend a day reviewing casting blueprints, selecting appropriate wood materials, and setting up equipment like saws and shapers. They construct pattern components, check measurements against specifications, and make adjustments. Work involves hand tools and machinery, problem-solving when designs require modification, and quality checks before patterns go to the molding area.

Who this work suits

Realistic

93Artistic

51Conventional

51Investigative

18Social

5Enterprising

Holland code RAC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.

You'd do well in this work if you're drawn to hands-on creation and visual problem-solving. A practical mindset combined with an appreciation for craftsmanship and precision makes this career rewarding—you transform designs into functional wooden tools that directly enable manufacturing.

What it takes

Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.

Skills that matter most

Reading ComprehensionMonitoringComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringOperation and ControlActive ListeningMathematicsCritical Thinking

Knowledge areas

Mathematics (knowledge)DesignEngineering and TechnologyMechanicalBuilding and ConstructionAdministration and Management

Pay by state

State	25th pct	Median	75th pct	Employed
Pennsylvania	$50,120	$55,020	$55,920	—

All 1 states

Pennsylvania · $55,020

Training

Local training programs Certifications Licenses in your state Apprenticeships

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

Related occupations

Model Makers, Wood Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters Furniture Finishers Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing Woodworkers, All Other First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against patternmakers, wood and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.

Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 51-7032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.