CDCareer Decision

Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic Salary in IA

In the 2025 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS dataset, Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic in IA have a median annual salary of $63,420, with 90 recorded jobs in this area. Recorded earnings range from $50,720 at the 10th percentile to $82,950 at the 90th percentile.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS · Data year: 2025 · Last updated: 2026-09-22

Salary overview

Median annual salary

$63,420

Data year: 2025

Hourly median

$30.49

Employment

90

Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS

Salary distribution

$50,720
10th
$61,460
25th
$63,420
Median
$80,880
75th
$82,950
90th

Local compared with national

IA

$63,420

Median annual · 2025

United States

$58,000

Median annual · 2025

The IA median is 9.3% above the national median in the available dataset (a difference of $5,420).

Top skills

  1. 1.Operation and ControlImportance 3.3
  2. 2.Reading ComprehensionImportance 3.1
  3. 3.Critical ThinkingImportance 3.1
  4. 4.Operations MonitoringImportance 3.1
  5. 5.Quality Control AnalysisImportance 3.1
  6. 6.Active ListeningImportance 3.0
  7. 7.SpeakingImportance 3.0
  8. 8.MonitoringImportance 3.0
  9. 9.Time ManagementImportance 3.0
  10. 10.Complex Problem SolvingImportance 2.9
  11. 11.Social PerceptivenessImportance 2.8
  12. 12.Judgment and Decision MakingImportance 2.8

Career information

Education and experience

Experience
Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Job zone
3

Technology used

  • 3D Systems Geomagic Design X
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Delcam PowerMILL
  • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook

Common tasks

  • Read and interpret blueprints or drawings of parts to be cast or patterns to be made, compute dimensions, and plan operational sequences.
  • Verify conformance of patterns or template dimensions to specifications, using measuring instruments such as calipers, scales, and micrometers.
  • Assemble pattern sections, using hand tools, bolts, screws, rivets, glue, or welding equipment.
  • Repair and rework templates and patterns.
  • Clean and finish patterns or templates, using emery cloths, files, scrapers, and power grinders.
  • Set up and operate machine tools, such as milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and grinders, to machine castings or patterns.
  • Mark identification numbers or symbols onto patterns or templates.
  • Lay out and draw or scribe patterns onto material, using compasses, protractors, rulers, scribes, or other instruments.
  • Design and create templates, patterns, or coreboxes according to work orders, sample parts, or mockups.
  • Construct platforms, fixtures, and jigs for holding and placing patterns.

Related careers

Occupations recorded as related in the dataset. A relationship does not imply a guaranteed transition.

Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic salary in other locations

Other occupations in IA