Toolmakers and Engineering Patternmakers
Toolmakers and Engineering Patternmakers make and repair tools, dies, jigs, fixtures and other precision parts and equipment to fine tolerances for machine tools and other production machinery, and construct full-size engineering, visual and experimental models and models for the manufacture of prototype developmental products.
Fun facts
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Stable Future Growth
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NA Weekly Pay Before Tax
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88% full-time Full-Time Share
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3% female Gender Share
Tasks
There are many tasks done by toolmakers and engineering patternmakers. A few are listed below:
- studying drawings and specifications to determine dimensions and tolerances of articles to be manufactured and models to be constructed
- measuring and marking out metal stock and castings using various gauges
- shaping metal and wood stock using machine tools
- checking accuracy of manufactured articles and finished patterns to fine tolerances, using precision measuring instruments
- testing and modifying manufactured articles
- applying protective finishes to patterns and painting pattern sections to indicate method of assembly
- assembling pattern sections and shaping work pieces to specified finish
- pouring and spreading materials into moulds and over models of patterns, and building laminations of fibreglass cloth and plastic resin to fabricate patterns
- repairing broken and damaged patterns and correcting patterns to compensate for defects in casting
- constructing templates for layout and inspection
Specific occupations
- Engineering Patternmaker
- Toolmaker
- Die Caster
- Die Sinker
- Jigmaker (Metal)
- Plastic Mould Maker
- Press-tool Maker