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Internship Pattern Designer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Wheel: color, size, style, bolt pattern * Tire: brand, model, size * Support integration of vision ... This internship is designed to go beyond observation--you'll own a meaningful project that directly ...

Internship Pattern Designer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Pattern Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Pattern Designer, you need a solid understanding of garment construction, textile properties, and pattern drafting, often gained through fashion design coursework or a related diploma. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator, Gerber, or CLO 3D is highly valuable. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills help interns effectively collaborate with design teams and translate ideas into workable patterns. These skills ensure accurate, innovative designs that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements in the fashion industry.

What are some common challenges faced during an internship as a Pattern Designer, and how can they be overcome?

Internship Pattern Designers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new software tools, understanding varying design specifications, and collaborating effectively with experienced designers. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first by the pace of production or the need to quickly iterate on patterns based on feedback. Overcoming these challenges involves proactive communication, seeking feedback regularly, and taking initiative to practice with industry-standard software. Building strong relationships with mentors and team members can also help interns gain valuable insights and accelerate their learning curve.

What does an internship pattern designer do?

An internship pattern designer assists in creating templates or blueprints for clothing or textiles, working closely with senior designers and production teams. Their tasks often include drafting patterns, adjusting designs based on feedback, and learning about the technical side of pattern making. Interns gain hands-on experience with industry tools and software, while also contributing to fittings and sample production. This role helps develop both creative and technical skills necessary for a career in fashion or textile design.

What is the difference between Internship Pattern Designer vs Pattern Maker?

AspectInternship Pattern DesignerPattern Maker
CredentialsBasic fashion design or pattern drafting courses, internship experienceTechnical pattern drafting skills, experience in garment construction
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, fashion houses, internshipsManufacturing units, tailoring shops, production facilities
Industry UsageFashion design, apparel developmentGarment production, sample creation

While both roles involve pattern work, an Internship Pattern Designer focuses on learning and assisting in designing patterns during an internship, whereas a Pattern Maker is responsible for creating precise patterns for production. The internship role is more educational, while the pattern maker role is more technical and production-oriented.

What are popular job titles related to Internship Pattern Designer jobs in Indiana? For Internship Pattern Designer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Internship Pattern Designer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Internship Pattern Designer job openings:
Tooling Engineering (Internship - Summer 2026)

Tooling Engineering (Internship - Summer 2026)

Waupaca Foundry, Inc.

Tell City, IN

$14 - $18/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Waupaca Foundry rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

410th of 514 rated manufacturers


Job description

Waupaca Foundry, Inc. is North America's leading supplier of iron castings and has a history of innovation with a legacy of product quality. Waupaca Foundry employs approximately 4,400 people company-wide.
Waupaca Foundry is committed to relentless improvement, forward-thinking sustainability initiatives, and providing a reliable experience to the millions who use our castings every day. Our goal is to employ individuals who take pride in their work within a culture of continual innovation.
Waupaca Foundry is proud to be an employer of choice for those driven and skilled individuals seeking rewarding careers by producing top quality castings.

You will be right at home at Waupaca Foundry.

Cast Your Own Future.
More information is available on our website www.waupacafoundry.com

Tooling Engineering (Internship)

ROLE:

Assist with designing and/or modification of customer provided CAD data utilizing foundry casting principles to create 3D models from which mold and/or core tooling will be built.

RESPONSIBILITES/DUTIES:

  • Work directly with and assist the foundry tooling engineers on the design, configuration and build layout of mold and core box tooling.
  • Layout multiple cavity tooling as directed by tooling engineering.
  • Design cores including print area to satisfy casting requirements.
  • Utilize Delcam PowerShape software to modify CAD data to include shrink, draft, radi and fillet modification.
  • Assist CAM Designer on the transfer of model information for CNC cut path generation.
  • Generate build and assembly drawings for pattern shop.
  • Work with other pattern personnel to determine tooling rework strategies.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

  • Knowledge of CNC Machining, 3D CAD systems utilizing surfacing (Preferably Delcam PowerShap software).
  • Ability to create 3D models from 2D layout drawings.
  • Ability to understand and apply non-uniform shrink, draft and offset parting to models.
  • Ability to compare 3D part models to 2D casting layout drawings for accuracy.
  • Must possess good written and oral communication skills.
  • Be enrolled in post-high school education for the Fall 2026 semester.
  • Minimum of 1 completed year in related field (preferred).
  • Be considered a full time student (12 credits or more).
  • Be 18 years or older.

If selected for consideration, candidates must successfully complete a selection process that includes interviews, reference check/verification, and a pre-employment drug screen.

If you would like to be considered for production employment if an internship is not available, you will have to apply separately when position is available at  http://www.waupacafoundry.com/en/careers/opportunities

If selected for consideration, candidates must successfully complete a selection process that includes interviews, reference check/verification, and a pre-employment drug screen.

Waupaca Foundry is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.


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