Patternmakers, metal and plastic
SOC Code: 51-4062
Patternmakers, metal and plastic carries a 32% AI exposure score (Medium automation risk), with a median annual wage of $54,540 and -24.4% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 1,600 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
AI Exposure vs Industry Growth
Total occupations tracked
832
Covering all SOC major groups
Data currency
2024
BLS Employment Projections
AI exposure avg
40%
Fleet-wide median across all roles
Composite score weighing O*NET task data completeness, BLS projection methodology, and cross-validation with employer risk grades.
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Patternmakers, metal and plastic (SOC 51-4062) carries an AI exposure score of 32%, placing it in the Medium automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score below 40% reflects tasks anchored in physical dexterity, unstructured environments, or high-touch human interaction that current AI cannot reliably replicate.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 1,600 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a -24.4% change through 2034 — a decline that often compounds with high AI exposure to create displacement headwinds. Median annual compensation stands at $54,540, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires High school diploma or equivalent, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Patternmakers, metal and plastic. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Program computerized numerical control machine tools.
- 2. Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
- 3. Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
- 4. Create computer models of patterns or parts, using modeling software.
- 5. Repair and rework templates and patterns.
- 6. Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
- 7. Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
- 8. Construct platforms, fixtures, and jigs for holding and placing patterns.
- 9. Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.
- 10. Design and create templates, patterns, or coreboxes according to work orders, sample parts, or mockups.
Key Skills Required
- Operations Monitoring
- Operation and Control
- Quality Control Analysis
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Complex Problem Solving
- Judgment and Decision Making
Knowledge Areas
- Production and Processing
- Mechanical
- Mathematics
- Design
- Engineering and Technology
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Administrative
- Education and Training
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Patternmakers, metal and plastic?
Patternmakers, metal and plastic has an AI exposure score of 32%, indicating a medium level of automation risk. The majority of tasks in this role require human judgment, creativity, or physical presence that AI cannot easily replicate.
What is the job outlook for Patternmakers, metal and plastic?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Patternmakers, metal and plastic is projected to decline by 24.4% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 1,600 workers.
What skills are needed for Patternmakers, metal and plastic?
Key skills for Patternmakers, metal and plastic include Operations Monitoring, Operation and Control, Quality Control Analysis, and others. Typical entry-level education is High school diploma or equivalent.
How much do Patternmakers, metal and plastic earn?
The median annual wage for Patternmakers, metal and plastic is $54,540, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Patternmakers, metal and plastic?
The typical entry-level education for Patternmakers, metal and plastic is High school diploma or equivalent. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves Moderate-term on-the-job training. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Patternmakers, metal and plastic?
Patternmakers, metal and plastic roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
Medium automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. Most tasks require human judgment and are resistant to automation.
Related Occupations
Career Guides
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).