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

Stable Future Growth
88% full-time Full-Time Share
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

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