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Foundry Pattern Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Castek Aluminum Inc

Foundry Molder

Elyria, OH · On-site

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 ...

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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 Jul 11, 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 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 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 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 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 Foundry Pattern Makers?

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.
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Foundry Pattern Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Foundry Pattern Maker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,376 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Tooling and Design Technician

Tooling and Design Technician

Craft Pattern and Mold

Montrose, MN

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:

The Tooling and Design Technician is responsible for providing support to a wide array of technical products in the Tool Design function.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Engineer prototype and production foundry tooling, including 3d printed sand components, using your experience, guidance from the project manager/department lead, and company established procedures and "best practices".
  • Programming of CNC machines
  • Establish design competency with SolidWorks, Creo, Fusion 360, PowerShape, and/or PowerMill and programming competency with Fusion 360 and/or PowerMill.
  • Set-up tooling and CNC machines to produce tooling components using wood, plastic, and metal materials.
  • Assemble tooling and work with finishing department on completing tools.
  • Work with quality to ensure job requirements are met.
  • Actively participate in the material management system. (Kan-ban cards)
  • Ensure jobs are completed in a timely manner. Communicate delivery updates and potential delays with the Tooling &Design Manager.
  • Ensure jobs are completed efficiently, consistent with the quoted hours and materials for the job. Advise the Tooling &Design Manager if a job will run over or cannot be completed within the time allotted.
  • Meet frequently (at least biweekly) with the department manager to address any concerns and/or pass on concerns to management. This may include machine availability, material resources, tools or tooling, quality, design, workflow, and manpower needs and availability.
  • Ensure clean & safe workplace.
  • Other jobs and duties as assigned by supervisors or management.

Minimum Education: Trade school, with documentation of completion, plus 2 years of experience or the equivalent of extensive job experience, 5 plus years, in tooling, set-up, programing, design, operations, & diagnostics/ trouble shooting.

Preferred plus: The above with a 2-year or 4-year relevant technical degree from an accredited institution.


Minimum Skills/Experience: mechanical aptitude, effective computer use, above average Math skills, independent decision-making, and effective self-management.

Preferred Skills/Experience: Above plus - Strong advanced Computer & programing skills and advanced math skills, 5-7 years' experience, any relevant added apprenticeship programs,

Added job experience in sand cast or Pattern Maker mold shop a plus.


Functional Requirements

Consistently able to:

  • Manually lift and move product and materials up to 55 lbs. through regular physical exertion, including but not limited to reach forward, reach overhead, lift, carry, crouch and bend.
  • Power grip and wrist turn, including the use of hand tools and/or steering for truck.
  • Walk, sit or stand for up to 12 hours with intermittent breaks.
  • Push / pull 100lbs.
  • See, inspect, and evaluate product quality
  • Read and understand written work instructions in English
  • Work in a non-climate controlled environment, including hot and humid conditions.
  • Walk up and down steps
  • Climb ladders and stairs of varying height
  • Wear task-based Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Protective Footwear;
    • Hearing Protection
    • Protective Eyewear
    • Gloves
    • Additional PPE may as required by specific tasks


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