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Foundry Pattern Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Individual will be making repro pattern, screwing, pinning, fitting patterns together, mounting ... You will be required to work onsite in the Franklin Foundry location Monday - Friday. Your ...

Pattern Handling: Working with patterns, which are replicas of the desired metal part, to create the mold cavity.Equipment Operation: Operation of various tools and machinery, including hand tools ...

What you'll do * Pattern Construction: Build, assemble, modify, and repair wooden patterns ... Prior exposure to patternmaking or foundry processes. Why join Weir? We live our values we think ...

What you'll do * Pattern Construction: Build, assemble, modify, and repair wooden patterns ... Prior exposure to patternmaking or foundry processes. Why join Weir? We live our values we think ...

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Foundry Pattern Maker information

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$33.5K

$77.4K

$126K

How much do foundry pattern maker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for foundry pattern maker in the United States is $77,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foundry pattern maker?

Foundry Pattern Makers are skilled tradespeople who create precise models, known as patterns, used to shape molds for casting metal parts. These patterns are typically made from wood, metal, or plastic and must accurately reflect the dimensions and details of the final product. Pattern makers work closely with engineers and foundry workers to ensure the molds produce high-quality castings. Their work is crucial in industries like automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery manufacturing.

What does a foundry pattern maker do?

A foundry pattern maker creates patterns for the casting of wood, metal, or other materials. Your duties in this career include reading blueprints and following those exact specifications when creating a pattern. You also operate the necessary machinery for pattern creation and shape pieces of the casting to create a final product. You also have responsibilities that focus on cleaning your work area and equipment after your shift, learning about new tools and equipment, performing inspections, maintenance, and repairs on equipment, and training to learn proper safety procedures of your craft. You typically work in an industrial setting for this job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foundry pattern maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foundry Pattern Maker, you need strong skills in woodworking, metalworking, and blueprint reading, often supported by an apprenticeship or vocational training in pattern making. Familiarity with CAD software, measuring tools, and specialized machinery such as lathes and milling machines is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the precise creation of patterns that are critical for producing accurate and high-quality cast metal parts.

What are some common challenges faced by foundry pattern makers and how can they be addressed?

Foundry pattern makers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, maintaining precise tolerances, and adapting to evolving casting technologies. Working with various materials (wood, metal, plastics) requires attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills to ensure patterns produce high-quality castings. Collaboration with engineers and foundry workers is essential to address issues early in the process and to make necessary adjustments quickly. Continuous learning and adaptability help pattern makers stay current with industry advancements and enhance their craftsmanship.

What is the difference between Foundry Pattern Maker vs Mold Maker?

AspectFoundry Pattern MakerMold Maker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training in pattern makingHigh school diploma; technical training or apprenticeship in mold making
Work EnvironmentFoundries, manufacturing plantsTool shops, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed in metal casting to create patterns for moldsCreates molds and tooling for casting or manufacturing
Primary FocusDesigning and creating patterns for castingFabricating molds and tooling for casting or production

The Foundry Pattern Maker specializes in designing and creating patterns used in metal casting processes, while the Mold Maker focuses on fabricating molds and tooling for casting or manufacturing. Both roles require technical skills and work in similar environments, but their primary responsibilities differ in the stages of the casting process they support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Foundry Pattern Maker jobs?

The most popular types of Foundry Pattern Maker jobs are:

What states have the most Foundry Pattern Maker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Foundry Pattern Maker jobs include:

Infographic showing various Foundry Pattern Maker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,376 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Foundry Patternmaker

Caterpillar | Energy & Transportation

Mapleton, IL • On-site

$26.68 - $39/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

What You Will Do (including but not limited to):

  • Operating conventional machines
  • Construct and repair all types of metal, wood, and plastic patterns using conventional and CNC equipment
  • Maintain cutting tools in CNC machine center
  • Utilize Computer Numerical Control
  • Utilize Computer Aided Design
  • Utilize Computer Aided Manufacturing
  • Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications:

  • 1 or more years of experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Ability to read prints and interpret call outs
  • Must be willing to learn new skills

Top Candidates Will Also Have:

  • Experience as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Programmer / Machinist
  • Experience using G code and M code
  • Ability to program and use CNC/CAD/CAM packages and switch gears quickly to operate multiple machines
  • Power Mill and Power shape experience
  • Previous foundry, machine shop, or manufacturing experience

Physical Requirement:

  • Ability to frequently lift and carry boxes weighing up to 35 pounds
  • Ability to stand throughout an 8 to 12-hour shift

What You Will Get:

  • Safety in words and actions. Safety is a core value at Caterpillar. We encourage and commit to safety in all processes that we do. We strive to provide a safe and secure work environment for all our employees.

  • A rewarding career. Our teams are critical to the success of our customers who build a better world. Here you earn more than just wage. Because we value your performance, we offer a total rewards package that provides:

  • Competitive base pay.

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Paid time off plan

  • 401k savings plan

  • Wellness programs

Salary Range: $26.68 - $39.44 plus $1.00 shift differential

Additional Information:

  • Full benefits
  • Starting salary range $26.68 - $39.44 plus $1.00 shift differential
  • Position is in Mapleton, Illinois
  • This position is on 2nd or 3rd shift
  • No relocation reimbursement is offered

#LI

Summary Pay Range:

$26.68 - $39.44

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*

  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*

  • 401(k) savings plans*

  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*

  • Health Lifestyle Programs*

  • Employee Assistance Program*

  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*

  • Career Development*

  • Incentive bonus*

  • Disability benefits

  • Life Insurance

  • Parental leave

  • Adoption benefits

  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Posting Dates:

August 4, 2026 - October 13, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.