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Pattern Cutter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CNC Nesting Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The primary focus of this role is to utilize nesting software to arrange cutting patterns for raw materials (sheet metal) to ensure maximum yield and minimal waste. This is a critical role for ...

Mig Welder

Redding, CA · On-site

$11/hr

Uses template, pattern, scribe, etc. to mark and lay out material. * Aligns and assembles structures for welding using crane, cum-a-long, chains, etc. * Uses cutting torch to burn to precision layout.

Sr. Architect, Software Engineering

Carlsbad, CA · Remote

$133K - $180K/yr

... patterns that align with organizational and project goals to create a robust, scalable ... Research and utilize new cutting-edge technologies and provide a roadmap to evolve the existing ...

... patterns that align with organizational and project goals to create a robust, scalable ... Research and utilize new cutting-edge technologies and provide a roadmap to evolve the existing ...

... patterns that align with organizational and project goals to create a robust, scalable ... Research and utilize new cutting-edge technologies and provide a roadmap to evolve the existing ...

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Pattern Cutter information

See California salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do pattern cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for pattern cutter in California is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pattern Cutter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pattern Cutter, you need a solid understanding of garment construction, pattern drafting, and fabric properties, often supported by a qualification in fashion design or pattern cutting. Familiarity with CAD software, manual pattern-making tools, and grading systems is highly valued in the industry. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with designers and production teams. These competencies ensure well-fitting, manufacturable garments and an efficient workflow from concept to production.

What are some common challenges faced by pattern cutters when working with new or complex designs?

Pattern cutters often encounter challenges when translating designers' creative concepts into workable patterns, especially with innovative or intricate styles. Accurately interpreting sketches and ensuring patterns maintain both the intended silhouette and functionality requires strong technical skills and attention to detail. Additionally, working with different fabrics may present unique difficulties, as some materials behave unpredictably during cutting and assembly. Collaboration with designers and sample machinists is essential to resolve fit issues and perfect prototypes.

What is the difference between Pattern Cutter vs Sample Maker?

AspectPattern CutterSample Maker
Primary RoleDesigns and develops patterns for garments based on design specificationsConstructs prototypes or samples from patterns for fitting and evaluation
Skills & CertificationsPattern drafting, sewing, knowledge of fabrics, technical drawingSewing, fabric manipulation, fitting techniques
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, fashion houses, manufacturing facilitiesSample rooms, production workshops, fashion studios
Industry UsageUsed in fashion design, pattern making, and garment productionUsed in sample creation, fitting, and prototype development

The main difference is that Pattern Cutters focus on creating the patterns that serve as templates for garments, while Sample Makers build the actual samples from those patterns for fitting and review. Both roles are essential in the garment production process but involve different skills and responsibilities.

What are pattern cutters?

Pattern cutters are skilled professionals in the fashion and garment industry who create templates or patterns from designers’ sketches or technical drawings. These patterns serve as the blueprint for cutting fabric and assembling garments, ensuring that the final product matches the intended design and fits properly. Pattern cutters need to have a keen eye for detail, an understanding of garment construction, and proficiency in both manual and digital pattern-making techniques. Their role is crucial in translating creative concepts into wearable clothing.
What are popular job titles related to Pattern Cutter jobs in California? For Pattern Cutter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pattern Cutter jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pattern Cutter jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pattern Cutter jobs? Cities in California with the most Pattern Cutter job openings:
Composite Associate 1 - Advanced

Composite Associate 1 - Advanced

ARROWHEAD PRODUCTS CORPORATION

Los Alamitos, CA • On-site

$26.46/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
This position will perform fabrication of Arrowhead Products Composite/Non-Metal components & products. It is a combination of the following jobs: Parts Identifier, Hand Builder, Laminator, Assembler, Insulation Fabricator, Fabric Cutter, General Service Person and Parts Fabrication.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Will utilize blueprints and production planning instructions to perform marking, identification, trimming, cutting, drilling and assembly of composite/non-metal parts.
  • Perform operations such as vacuum bagging/sealing, curing and trimming insulation materials, applying plastic impregnated fiberglass fabric and metal to semi-finished blankets, cutting materials to pattern, hand lay-up, wrapping insulation blankets on to ducting.
  • Develop patterns for layup to produce parts to specific and drawing requirements.
  • Operate curing ovens, power vise, fabric dinking machine, Gerber Cutter, routers, hand/power tools and other machinery related to composite fabrication.
  • Will work with materials such as honeycomb, coated fabrics, rubber, adhesives, cements, plastics and other materials related to composite fabrication.
  • Will make void-free laminates and perform acceptable repairs to parts per blueprint specifications or planning requirements.
  • Will make and perform tool setups as needed.
  • Will perform material use calculation and accurate tracking for inventory record keeping.
  • Will perform auxiliary operations such as handling/moving parts, tooling and materials, tool stripping, spray painting, steam cleaning and secondary wrapping operations.
  • Responsible for assisting the department in the development of techniques to increase productivity, quality, and throughput of products and to share job knowledge in the department.
  • Record all trace ability information of material used and log on shop travelers.
  • Will maintain work area and equipment in a clean, orderly, FOD-free fashion and adhere to all Safety standards.
  • This job description is not all inclusive of all duties. Other job duties consistent with the Composite Associate Job Family may be assigned.

Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous Composites fabrication experience preferred and may be substituted for education requirement.
  • *Employees must bid into these classifications before progression is allowed to higher levels.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to perform quality work in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Ability to interpret blueprints, work orders and production planing documents.
  • Ability to use standard manufacturing measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, tape measures, and scales.
  • Must be capable of working with tight tolerances such as + or - .001".
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • N/A

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Frequent lifting of up to 35 lbs.
  • Frequent pushing and pulling.
  • Bend, stoop, squat occasionally.
  • Sit, stand and walk frequently.
  • Talk and listen frequently.
  • Occasional use of computers.
  • Constant use and motion of hands and arms.
  • Constant exposure to manufacturing shop noise.

Special Requirements:
N/A
Limitations and Disclaimer:
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, this job description does not establish a contract for employment. In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) of 1990, the Company will make reasonable accommodations with those individuals with a disability as defined by the ADA.