Pattern Shop Technician

Position Summary:

The Pattern Shop Technician is responsible for building, modifying, and repairing patterns, molds, tooling, and fixtures used in foundry and manufacturing operations. This role is well suited for an individual with auto body, fabrication, or restoration experience who is skilled in shaping, forming, finishing, and working to precise dimensions.

The position combines hands-on craftsmanship with machining and fabrication skills. The technician works from engineering drawings to produce accurate, durable tooling that supports production quality and efficiency.

Essential Functions:

• Fabricate, modify, and repair patterns, molds, tooling, and fixtures using manual machining and fabrication methods.

• Perform layout, shaping, sanding, grinding, and surface finishing similar to auto body repair and restoration processes.

• Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and dimensional specifications.

• Set up and operate manual equipment and CNC machines (mills and lathes) as required.

• Assist with CNC setup and make minor program edits when necessary.

• Use precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and indicators to verify dimensions.

• Ensure patterns and tooling meet specified tolerances and quality standards.

• Apply basic geometry and shop math to develop accurate shapes and contours.

• Identify defects, fit issues, or dimensional inconsistencies and correct them prior to release to production.

• Operate forklifts and overhead cranes in accordance with safety guidelines (if certified).

• Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance on shop equipment.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

• Follow all company safety policies and PPE requirements.

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support shop and production needs.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in auto body repair, fabrication, restoration, machining, or related trade.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort working with hand and power tools.

• Ability to read and interpret basic engineering drawings and measurements.

• Experience operating manual mills, lathes, or similar shop equipment preferred.

• Basic understanding of CNC equipment is a plus (training may be provided).

• Strong attention to detail and ability to work to close tolerances.

• Ability to problem-solve fit and finish issues independently.

• Team-oriented with a commitment to quality workmanship.

Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required.

• Technical, trade, or vocational training in auto body, machining, fabrication, or manufacturing preferred.

• 3–5+ years of hands-on experience in auto body, metal fabrication, machining, or tool repair preferred.

• Experience working with complex shapes, contouring, and surface finishing strongly preferred.

Physical Demands

The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and work around machinery. The role requires lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds. Work is performed in a manufacturing and pattern shop environment with moving equipment.

Work Environment

This position operates in a manufacturing and pattern shop setting. The employee will work around machining equipment, fabrication tools, and moving machinery. Strict adherence to safety procedures and use of appropriate PPE is required.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• First-pass accuracy of patterns and tooling (minimal rework)

• On-time completion of assigned pattern and tooling projects

• Dimensional accuracy to drawing specifications

• Reduction of production issues related to pattern or tooling quality

• Effectiveness of machine setups and minimal post-release adjustments

• Tooling durability and performance in production

• Compliance with safety procedures

• Cleanliness and organization of assigned work area

• Responsiveness to engineering and production change requests

SMART Goals

• Improve first-pass quality of patterns and tooling delivered to production.

• Reduce tooling-related rework through improved measurement and verification practices.

• Decrease turnaround time for tooling modifications while maintaining quality standards.

• Develop proficiency in CNC setup and programming where applicable.

• Maintain a high standard of safety, equipment care, and shop organization.

• Support continuous improvement efforts related to tooling performance and manufacturability.