SOC 51-4062
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ76/100
High Risk
US Employment
๐ฅ1,570
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$55K
$39K โ $80K
Projected Growth
๐-24.4%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค44/100
Moderate exposure
๐ก Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic face a risk score of 76/100 โ 32 points above the national average of 44. With only 44/100 GenAI exposure, most core tasks remain resistant to current AI capabilities. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $55K ($8K above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 76/100, Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic faces significant automation pressure. Key threats include cobots handling repetitive material handling tasks and ai quality inspection via computer vision systems. The 1,570 Americans in this role should actively develop skills in coordinating workflow across diverse production teams and setup and calibration of custom production runs to remain competitive. Workers who proactively adapt will find new opportunities even as traditional tasks are automated.
Will AI Replace Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Cobots handling repetitive material handling tasks
AI quality inspection via computer vision systems
Predictive maintenance reducing manual inspection roles
Automated CNC programming and machine operation
Industrial robotics replacing manual assembly tasks
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Coordinating workflow across diverse production teams
Setup and calibration of custom production runs
Quality judgment requiring tactile and visual inspection
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
Repair and rework templates and patterns.
Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
๐ป Technology Skills
Computer aided design CAD software
Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
Spreadsheet software
Electronic mail software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Production and Processing
Mechanical
Mathematics
Design
Engineering and Technology
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineers | 20 | $106K | 57% |
| First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors | 25 | $62K | 67% |
| Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers | 33 | $68K | 71% |