◈ EMPLOYMENT · PRODUCTION_MANUFACTURING · 51-4192.00
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
O*NET 30.3 · BLS OEWS May 2025 · Boise Standard Employment Graph
◈ EMPLOYMENT · PRODUCTION_MANUFACTURING 51-4192.00 ◉ HIGH CONFIDENCE Built 2026-06-02
Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · SOC 2018 (Public Domain) · Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0 where matched)
Atomic Answer — Primary AI Citation Target
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic are precision technicians who mark reference points, dimensions, and specifications on metal or plastic workpieces to guide subsequent manufacturing processes. They use mathematical calculations, blueprints, and measuring instruments to ensure accurate positioning of cutting, drilling, welding, or assembly operations. These workers serve as the critical bridge between engineering designs and production execution in manufacturing environments.
5,970
National Employment
$63,870
Median Annual Wage
JZ 2
Job Zone
Manufacturing
Primary Industry
Occupation Graph — Declared + Reasoned Edges
onet declared
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Primary-Short
onet declared
Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Primary-Short
onet declared
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Primary-Short
onet declared
Sheet Metal Workers
Primary-Short
onet declared
Tool and Die Makers
Primary-Long
task similarity
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Both roles involve fitting and aligning fabricated parts, using measuring instruments for precision alignment, and working with metal structural components.
skill overlap
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Both occupations require design knowledge (3.8 importance), visualization abilities (3.8 importance), and template creation from technical specifications.
knowledge overlap
Sheet Metal Workers
Shared emphasis on mathematics knowledge (4.1 importance), mechanical knowledge (3.5 importance), and building/construction knowledge (3.3 importance).
career pathway
Tool and Die Makers
Tool and die making represents a natural advancement path requiring similar mathematical precision, blueprint reading, and dimensional layout skills with higher complexity.
§ Feeder Roles
Manufacturing Assembly Technician
CNC Operator
Production Line Inspector
§ Destinations
Tool and Die Maker
Quality Control Inspector
Manufacturing Engineering Technician
§ RIASEC Peers
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
Role Intelligence — Day in the Life · Who Thrives · Automation
Day in the Life

Layout workers begin by studying blueprints and technical drawings to understand dimensional requirements and specifications for metal or plastic parts. They use scribes, soapstones, punches, and measuring instruments like gauge blocks and height gauges to mark curves, lines, holes, and welding symbols onto workpieces with precision. Throughout the day, they compute layout dimensions using trigonometry and geometric principles, create templates from wood, paper, or metal, and verify template positions to ensure accuracy. They frequently collaborate with supervisors and other technicians to clarify specifications and fit fabricated parts for welding or assembly. The work involves substantial physical handling of materials and close visual inspection to maintain quality standards.

Who Thrives

Individuals who excel in this role possess strong mathematical aptitude and spatial visualization abilities, as evidenced by the high importance ratings for mathematics knowledge (4.1) and visualization ability (3.8). They demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and dependability, crucial traits given the precision requirements of layout work. The realistic-conventional RIASEC profile (R:6.48, C:3.89) indicates success for those who prefer hands-on problem-solving with structured, detail-oriented tasks. Candidates need steady hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to handle measuring instruments and marking tools accurately. Those who thrive typically enjoy working independently while following technical specifications and take satisfaction in creating the foundation for successful manufacturing operations.

Automation Outlook

Layout work faces moderate automation pressure as CAD/CAM systems and CNC programming reduce some manual layout requirements, but the role's emphasis on complex problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and hands-on fitting operations provides protection. The high importance of activities like handling and moving objects (4.2), inspecting equipment and materials (4.2), and making decisions and solving problems (3.7) involves cognitive and physical skills that remain difficult to automate fully. Workers who adapt to integrate digital tools like AutoCAD with traditional layout techniques will likely maintain strong employment prospects.

Market Intelligence — BLS OEWS May 2025
With 5,970 workers employed nationally, layout workers earn a median annual wage of $63,870 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, with experienced workers reaching up to $93,860. Employment is concentrated in manufacturing (3,870 workers) and government sectors (1,010 workers), reflecting demand from aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing. Geographic wage variation is significant, ranging from $87,570 in Hawaii to $25,170 in Puerto Rico (3.48x ratio), often correlating with local aerospace and shipbuilding industries. The specialized nature of this work and relatively small workforce suggests stable demand for skilled practitioners, particularly in industries requiring precision metal fabrication and complex assembly operations.
$39,980
10th
$50,910
25th
$63,870
Median
$79,470
75th
$93,860
90th
Highest Paying State
Hawaii
$87,570 median
Geographic Dispersion
3.479x
highest / lowest median
Manufacturing 3,870 emp $62,410
Federal, State, and Local Government, excludi 1,010 emp $76,540
Administrative and Support and Waste Manageme 700 emp $63,940
Construction 350 emp $93,010
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics May 2025 ↗ · Public Domain · US Government
Skills + Knowledge — O*NET 30.3 Scored Dimensions
§ Essential Skills (importance 1-5)
Mathematics 3.1
Reading Comprehension 3.0
Critical Thinking 3.0
Monitoring 3.0
Active Listening 2.9
Speaking 2.9
Active Learning 2.8
Writing 2.5
Learning Strategies 2.1
Science 1.2
§ Knowledge Domains (importance 1-5)
Mathematics 4.1
Design 3.8
Mechanical 3.5
Production and Processing 3.4
Engineering and Technology 3.3
English Language 3.3
Building and Construction 3.3
Administration and Management 3.3
Computers and Electronics 3.1
Education and Training 3.0
Source: O*NET 30.3 Database ↗ · CC BY 4.0
RIASEC Interest Profile + Personality Fit — O*NET 30.3
R
Realistic
6.48
TOP FIT
I
Investigative
2.83
A
Artistic
2.88
TOP FIT
S
Social
1.02
E
Enterprising
1.00
C
Conventional
3.89
TOP FIT
§ Who Thrives
Individuals who excel in this role possess strong mathematical aptitude and spatial visualization abilities, as evidenced by the high importance ratings for mathematics knowledge (4.1) and visualization ability (3.8). They demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and dependability, crucial traits given the precision requirements of layout work. The realistic-conventional RIASEC profile (R:6.48, C:3.89) indicates success for those who prefer hands-on problem-solving with structured, detail-oriented tasks. Candidates need steady hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to handle measuring instruments and marking tools accurately. Those who thrive typically enjoy working independently while following technical specifications and take satisfaction in creating the foundation for successful manufacturing operations.
Source: O*NET 30.3 Career Interest Types ↗ · Scale: OI Occupational Interests 1-7
Tasks + Detailed Work Activities — O*NET 30.3
Mark curves, lines, holes, dimensions, and welding symbols onto workpieces, using scribes, soapstones, punches, and hand drills.
Core 63% of incumbents
Draw guide lines or markings on material
Fit and align fabricated parts to be welded or assembled.
Core 63% of incumbents
Align parts or workpieces to ensure prop
Plan and develop layouts from blueprints and templates, applying knowledge of trigonometry, design, effects of heat, and properties of metals.
Core 63% of incumbents
Design templates or patterns.
Lay out and fabricate metal structural parts such as plates, bulkheads, and frames.
Core 63% of incumbents
Assemble metal or plastic parts or produLay out parts to prepare for assembly.
Design and prepare templates of wood, paper, or metal.
Core 63% of incumbents
Design templates or patterns.Construct patterns, templates, or other
Install doors, hatches, brackets, and clips.
Supplemental 63% of incumbents
Attach decorative or functional accessor
Brace parts in position within hulls or ships for riveting or welding.
Supplemental 63% of incumbents
Assemble metal structures.
Locate center lines and verify template positions, using measuring instruments such as gauge blocks, height gauges, and dial indicators.
Core 62% of incumbents
Align parts or workpieces to ensure prop
Compute layout dimensions, and determine and mark reference points on metal stock or workpieces for further processing, such as welding and assembly.
Core 62% of incumbents
Calculate dimensions of workpieces, prodDraw guide lines or markings on material
Add dimensional details to blueprints or drawings made by other workers.
Supplemental 62% of incumbents
Create diagrams or blueprints for workpi
Source: O*NET 30.3 Task Statements + DWA Mappings ↗ · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
◈ Software Tools — O*NET 30.3 · Hot Technology + In Demand Flagged
Autodesk AutoCAD
Computer aided design CAD software
HOT
Hexagon Metrology PC-DMIS
Procedure management software
Inventory tracking software
Inventory management software
Microsoft Excel
Spreadsheet software
HOT
Microsoft Office software
Office suite software
HOT
Microsoft PowerPoint
Presentation software
HOT
Microsoft Word
Word processing software
HOT
Optical Gaging Products Measure-X
Procedure management software
Source: O*NET 30.3 Software Skills ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Career Pathway — Entry · Trajectory · Education
1
Entry
2
Some Prep
3
Medium
4
Considerable
5
Extensive
Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little trainin
Most layout workers enter the field with a high school diploma (60% of workers) and learn through on-the-job training or apprenticeships in manufacturing environments. Some pursue post-secondary certificates in precision production, engineering technologies, or construction trades (11.6% of workers), which provide additional technical foundation. The Job Zone 2 classification indicates that workers typically need some preparation beyond high school but less than two years of formal training. Employers value candidates with strong mathematical skills and basic understanding of mechanical principles, often providing specialized training on company-specific tools and processes.
Layout workers can advance to supervisory roles overseeing production teams or specialize in complex layout work for aerospace, shipbuilding, or precision manufacturing applications. Many transition into related skilled trades such as tool and die making, patternmaking, or structural metal fabrication, leveraging their foundational knowledge of blueprints and precision measurement. Some pursue additional education to become engineering technicians, quality control specialists, or manufacturing engineers. The skills in blueprint reading, mathematical calculation, and precision measurement provide a strong foundation for advancement in technical manufacturing careers.
High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for 60.0%
Some College Courses 14.5%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for trai 11.6%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) 9.0%
Less than a High School Diploma 4.9%
Source: O*NET 30.3 Education + Job Zones ↗ · CC BY 4.0
Live Job Feed — Active Postings
Live Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic job postings populate here as the crawler feeds data. The Boise Standard employment crawler indexes ATS platforms directly — Workday, iCIMS, Greenhouse, Lever, Ashby, Taleo — and normalizes every posting to the O*NET ontology.

Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
Browse Production Manufacturing Feed → Submit Open Position →
◈ SEMANTIC MANIFOLD — MULTI-SOURCE WORD FREQUENCY FINGERPRINT
Top 40 terms across five provenance layers: O*NET Tasks · O*NET Dimensions · DWAs · Wikipedia · Inference · Stop words removed · Deterministic · Constitutional Law III
tendency others equipment principles objects materials layout workpieces metal control production includes design operations techniques tools precision products ideas body
§ Full Frequency Ranking — 40 terms
TERM COUNT FREQ BAR SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
tendency 42 0.0145
onet dimensi 100%
others 38 0.0131
onet dimensi 100%
equipment 26 0.0090
onet dimensi 88% dwas 8%
principles 18 0.0062
onet dimensi 89% inference 11%
objects 17 0.0059
onet dimensi 71% wikipedia 24%
materials 16 0.0055
onet dimensi 62% dwas 19%
layout 14 0.0048
inference 86% onet tasks 14%
workpieces 13 0.0045
dwas 62% onet tasks 23%
metal 13 0.0045
inference 46% onet tasks 23%
control 13 0.0045
onet dimensi 92% inference 8%
production 12 0.0042
onet dimensi 67% inference 25%
includes 12 0.0042
onet dimensi 100%
design 11 0.0038
onet dimensi 55% onet tasks 18%
operations 11 0.0038
onet dimensi 55% inference 36%
techniques 11 0.0038
onet dimensi 91% inference 9%
tools 11 0.0038
onet dimensi 45% wikipedia 27%
precision 11 0.0038
inference 73% onet dimensi 18%
products 11 0.0038
dwas 55% onet dimensi 45%
ideas 11 0.0038
onet dimensi 100%
body 11 0.0038
onet dimensi 91% wikipedia 9%
manufacturing 11 0.0038
inference 82% wikipedia 18%
problems 10 0.0035
onet dimensi 90% inference 10%
standards 10 0.0035
onet dimensi 80% wikipedia 10%
activities 10 0.0035
onet dimensi 90% inference 10%
hand 9 0.0031
onet dimensi 78% onet tasks 11%
rules 9 0.0031
onet dimensi 89% onet tasks 11%
problem 9 0.0031
onet dimensi 78% inference 22%
procedures 9 0.0031
onet dimensi 89% dwas 11%
resources 9 0.0031
onet dimensi 100%
quickly 9 0.0031
onet dimensi 100%
BOISE STANDARD — FINE-TUNING RECORD · Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
51-4192.00 · 8 QA pairs · jsonl · O*NET 30.3 + BLS OEWS
How many layout workers for metal and plastic are employed nationally?
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, there are 5,970 layout workers employed nationally in this occupation.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
What is the median annual wage for a layout worker in metal and plastic?
The median annual wage is $63,870, with the 90th percentile earning up to $93,860 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data.
factual BLS OEWS May 2025
What geographic market offers the highest compensation for layout workers?
Hawaii offers the highest median wage at $87,570 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, significantly above the national median of $63,870.
market_intel BLS OEWS May 2025
Which industry sectors employ the majority of layout workers?
Manufacturing is the primary employer, followed by Federal, State, and Local Government, and Administrative and Support Services sectors according to occupational data.
market_intel BLS occupational industry distribution
What technical skills should someone develop to advance in this field?
Priority competencies include AutoCAD and precision measurement software (PC-DMIS, Measure-X), advanced mathematics, spatial visualization, and blueprint reading—skills rated highly for job performance in this role.
career_advice Bundle skills and software data
What educational pathway is most common for entering this occupation?
60% of layout workers hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) and enter via on-the-job training or apprenticeships in manufacturing environments, according to education distribution data.
career_advice Education distribution analysis
How does employment stability compare to related metal fabrication roles?
Layout workers are closely related to Structural Metal Fabricators (51-2041) and Tool and Die Makers (51-4111), sharing manufacturing sector exposure with similar wage growth trajectories but layout work offers more accessible entry points.
comparative Related occupations hierarchy
What personality traits predict success in layout work versus other manufacturing roles?
Layout workers score highest on Realistic (R:6.48) and Conventional (C:3.89) personality dimensions, emphasizing precision and systems-thinking over social interaction, differing from customer-facing manufacturing roles.
comparative RIASEC personality profile
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 51-4192.00 · minted 2026-06-02T16:18:30Z · Sources: O*NET 30.3 (CC BY 4.0) · BLS OEWS May 2025 (Public Domain) · BS: https://boisestandard.org/employment/51-4192-layout_workers_metal_and_plastic
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Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 51-4192.00 · Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic 7 source blocks · click to expand
O*NET Identity onetonline.org ↗ · O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · retrieved 2026-06-02
[('onet_soc_code', '51-4192.00'), ('soc_code', '51-4192'), ('title', 'Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic'), ('vertical', 'production_manufacturing'), ('job_zone', '2'), ('job_zone_name', 'Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed'), ('job_zone_exp', 'Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For e'), ('description', 'Lay out reference points and dimensions on metal or plastic stock or workpieces, such as sheets, plates, tubes, structural shapes, castings, or machine parts, for further processing. Includes shipfitters.'), ('bundle_version', '1'), ('built_at', '2026-06-02T16:18:30Z')]
O*NET Task Statements (14 tasks, 0 emerging) O*NET 30.3 Task Statements · Incumbent-reported · CC BY 4.0
[Core] [63% incumbents] Mark curves, lines, holes, dimensions, and welding symbols onto workpieces, using scribes, soapstones, punches, and hand drills.
  DWAs: Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Fit and align fabricated parts to be welded or assembled.
  DWAs: Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Plan and develop layouts from blueprints and templates, applying knowledge of trigonometry, design, effects of heat, and properties of metals.
  DWAs: Design templates or patterns.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Lay out and fabricate metal structural parts such as plates, bulkheads, and frames.
  DWAs: Assemble metal or plastic parts or products. | Lay out parts to prepare for assembly.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Design and prepare templates of wood, paper, or metal.
  DWAs: Design templates or patterns. | Construct patterns, templates, or other work aids.

[Supplemental] [63% incumbents] Install doors, hatches, brackets, and clips.
  DWAs: Attach decorative or functional accessories to products.

[Supplemental] [63% incumbents] Brace parts in position within hulls or ships for riveting or welding.
  DWAs: Assemble metal structures.

[Core] [62% incumbents] Locate center lines and verify template positions, using measuring instruments such as gauge blocks, height gauges, and dial indicators.
  DWAs: Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.

[Core] [62% incumbents] Compute layout dimensions, and determine and mark reference points on metal stock or workpieces for further processing, such as welding and assembly.
  DWAs: Calculate dimensions of workpieces, products, or equipment. | Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.

[Supplemental] [62% incumbents] Add dimensional details to blueprints or drawings made by other workers.
  DWAs: Create diagrams or blueprints for workpieces or products.

[Core] [61% incumbents] Plan locations and sequences of cutting, drilling, bending, rolling, punching, and welding operations, using compasses, protractors, dividers, and rules.
  DWAs: Plan production or operational procedures or sequences.

[Core] [61% incumbents] Lift and position workpieces in relation to surface plates, manually or with hoists, and using parallel blocks and angle plates.
  DWAs: Lift materials or workpieces using cranes or other lifting equipment.

[Supplemental] [61% incumbents] Inspect machined parts to verify conformance to specifications.
  DWAs: Inspect metal, plastic, or composite products.

[Supplemental] [61% incumbents] Apply pigment to layout surfaces, using paint brushes.
  DWAs: Apply protective or decorative finishes to workpieces or products.
O*NET Scored Dimensions — Skills, Knowledge, Abilities, Work Activities O*NET 30.3 · CC BY 4.0 · domain_source: Incumbent/Analyst/Machine Learning
--- SKILLS ---
  Mathematics (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Active Listening (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Speaking (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Active Learning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.88) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Science (imp:1.25 lvl:0.38) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Mathematics (imp:4.07 lvl:4.18) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Design (imp:3.78 lvl:4.55) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Mechanical (imp:3.51 lvl:4.01) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Production and Processing (imp:3.36 lvl:3.40) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Engineering and Technology (imp:3.31 lvl:4.14) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  English Language (imp:3.31 lvl:3.71) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Building and Construction (imp:3.29 lvl:4.18) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Administration and Management (imp:3.28 lvl:2.72) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Computers and Electronics (imp:3.08 lvl:3.07) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Education and Training (imp:3.03 lvl:3.27) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:2.95 lvl:3.19) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.43 lvl:2.47) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.39 lvl:1.90) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Transportation (imp:2.31 lvl:2.30) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Physics (imp:2.29 lvl:2.30) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Administrative (imp:2.13 lvl:1.97) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.89 lvl:1.63) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Communications and Media (imp:1.87 lvl:1.42) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.82 lvl:1.02) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Psychology (imp:1.80 lvl:1.71) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Chemistry (imp:1.78 lvl:1.72) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Law and Government (imp:1.70 lvl:1.21) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Telecommunications (imp:1.69 lvl:1.17) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Geography (imp:1.65 lvl:1.32) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.43 lvl:0.78) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.37) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Biology (imp:1.29) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Food Production (imp:1.27) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.18) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.10) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Foreign Language (imp:1.10) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Fine Arts (imp:1.05) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  History and Archeology (imp:1.05) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi

--- ABILITIES ---
  Near Vision (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Visualization (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.75 lvl:3.25) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.50 lvl:3.25) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.50 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Information Ordering (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Selective Attention (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:3.50) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Oral Expression (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Number Facility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Control Precision (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Far Vision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Auditory Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Written Expression (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Speech Clarity (imp:2.88 lvl:2.25) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.75 lvl:3.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Speech Recognition (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Static Strength (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Depth Perception (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Originality (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Time Sharing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Reaction Time (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Stamina (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Spatial Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Response Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Rate Control (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.00 lvl:1.12) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.88 lvl:1.75) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.75 lvl:1.25) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Sound Localization (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Night Vision (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Getting Information (imp:4.31 lvl:3.48) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:4.18 lvl:6.28) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.16 lvl:4.08) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.03 lvl:4.55) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:4.02 lvl:5.07) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.85 lvl:3.76) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.72 lvl:4.95) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.66 lvl:4.26) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Processing Information (imp:3.58 lvl:4.07) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:3.58 lvl:4.25) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.56 lvl:4.24) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.55 lvl:4.37) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.52 lvl:3.94) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.51 lvl:4.27) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.47 lvl:3.71) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.46 lvl:4.23) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.41 lvl:3.26) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.40 lvl:3.64) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:3.39 lvl:3.57) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.37 lvl:3.64) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.35 lvl:4.07) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.29 lvl:3.68) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.23 lvl:3.97) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.22 lvl:3.70) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.17 lvl:3.51) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.09 lvl:3.67) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.06 lvl:3.73) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:3.01 lvl:3.45) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.00 lvl:3.52) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.99 lvl:3.36) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.91 lvl:3.30) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.87 lvl:3.12) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.85 lvl:3.02) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.76 lvl:2.80) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:2.66 lvl:2.80) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.50 lvl:2.51) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.49 lvl:2.96) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.41 lvl:2.56) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.30 lvl:2.45) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Working with Computers (imp:2.18 lvl:1.91) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.18 lvl:2.32) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.67) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.16) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Dependability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:1.96) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.35) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Perseverance (imp:1.02) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity (imp:0.87) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.84) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.80) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.79) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Innovation (imp:0.53) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Cooperation (imp:0.51) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Self-Control (imp:0.51) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Initiative (imp:0.30) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability (imp:0.19) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Sincerity (imp:0.04) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Optimism (imp:-0.07) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Empathy (imp:-0.13) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Humility (imp:-0.27) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.27) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.34) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.52) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Coordination (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Operation and Control (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.75 lvl:2.00) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Time Management (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Instructing (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Operations Analysis (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Persuasion (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Service Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Repairing (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Negotiation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:2.25) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Technology Design (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Installation (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Programming (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
BLS OEWS May 2025 — 5,970 employed nationally bls.gov/oes ↗ · Public Domain · US Government · retrieved 2026-06-02
--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 5,970
  annual_median    : $63,870
  annual_pct10     : $39,980
  annual_pct25     : $50,910
  annual_pct75     : $79,470
  annual_pct90     : $93,860
  annual_mean      : $66,520
  hourly_median    : $30.71

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Hawaii ($87,570)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($25,170)
  dispersion_ratio : 3.479x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (20 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:    3,870  median: $  62,410
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:    1,010  median: $  76,540
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      700  median: $  63,940
  Construction                             emp:      350  median: $  93,010

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (4 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:    3,870  median: $  62,410
  Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp:    1,010  median: $  76,540
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      700  median: $  63,940
  Construction                             emp:      350  median: $  93,010
Wikipedia — no exact match (0 words) N/A ↗ · CC BY-SA 4.0
exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T23:11:56.977133Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Metalworking (similarity: 0.2667)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metalworking
  QID: Q953045
  Extract: Metalworking is the process of shaping and reshaping metals in order to create useful objects, parts, assemblies, and large scale structures. As a term, it covers a wide and diverse range of processes, skills, and tools for producing objects on every scale: from huge ships, buildings, and bridges, d

  Title: Workbench (similarity: 0.3333)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Workbench
  QID: Q347690
  Extract: A workbench is a sturdy table at which manual work is done. They range from simple flat surfaces to very complex designs that may be considered tools in themselves. Workbenches vary in size from tiny jewellers benches to the huge benches used by staircase makers. Almost all workbenches are rectangul

  Title: Injection moulding (similarity: 0.1569)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Injection_moulding
  QID: Q260606
  Extract: Injection moulding is a manufacturing process for producing parts by injecting molten material into a mould, or mold. Injection moulding can be performed with a host of materials mainly including metals, glasses, elastomers, confections, and most commonly thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers. Ma

  Title: Electrostatic discharge (similarity: 0.2857)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrostatic_discharge
  QID: Q3574961
  Extract: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a sudden and momentary flow of electric current between two differently-charged objects when brought close together or when the dielectric between them breaks down, often creating a visible spark associated with the static electricity between the objects.

  Title: Harmonica (similarity: 0.2381)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmonica
  QID: Q51290
  Extract: The harmonica, also known as a French harp or mouth organ, is a free reed wind instrument used worldwide in many musical genres, notably in blues, American folk music, classical music, jazz, country, and rock. The many types of harmonica include diatonic, chromatic, tremolo, octave, orchestral, and 
Claude Inference — claude-sonnet-4-20250514 · confidence:high · $0.0483 inferred_at: 2026-06-04T01:37:35 UTC · Boise Standard inference pipeline v1.0
model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong confidence supported by detailed O*NET data including specific tasks, skills, and work activities. BLS wage data provides current market intelligence. Related occupations and education distributions offer clear career context.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T01:37:35.223898+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,699
tokens_output        : 4,298
cost_usd             : $0.048275
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No exact Wikipedia match found. Semantic analysis identified related metalworking and workbench concepts, but no specific coverage of layout worker occupations exists in Wikipedia.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic are precision technicians who mark reference points, dimensions, and specifications on metal or plastic workpieces to guide subsequent manufacturing processes. They use mathematical calculations, blueprints, and measuring instruments to ensure accurate positioning of cutting, drilling, welding, or assembly operations. These workers serve as the critical bridge between engineering designs and production execution in manufacturing environments.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Layout workers begin by studying blueprints and technical drawings to understand dimensional requirements and specifications for metal or plastic parts. They use scribes, soapstones, punches, and measuring instruments like gauge blocks and height gauges to mark curves, lines, holes, and welding symbols onto workpieces with precision. Throughout the day, they compute layout dimensions using trigonometry and geometric principles, create templates from wood, paper, or metal, and verify template positions to ensure accuracy. They frequently collaborate with supervisors and other technicians to clarify specifications and fit fabricated parts for welding or assembly. The work involves substantial physical handling of materials and close visual inspection to maintain quality standards.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role possess strong mathematical aptitude and spatial visualization abilities, as evidenced by the high importance ratings for mathematics knowledge (4.1) and visualization ability (3.8). They demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and dependability, crucial traits given the precision requirements of layout work. The realistic-conventional RIASEC profile (R:6.48, C:3.89) indicates success for those who prefer hands-on problem-solving with structured, detail-oriented tasks. Candidates need steady hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to handle measuring instruments and marking tools accurately. Those who thrive typically enjoy working independently while following technical specifications and take satisfaction in creating the foundation for successful manufacturing operations.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most layout workers enter the field with a high school diploma (60% of workers) and learn through on-the-job training or apprenticeships in manufacturing environments. Some pursue post-secondary certificates in precision production, engineering technologies, or construction trades (11.6% of workers), which provide additional technical foundation. The Job Zone 2 classification indicates that workers typically need some preparation beyond high school but less than two years of formal training. Employers value candidates with strong mathematical skills and basic understanding of mechanical principles, often providing specialized training on company-specific tools and processes.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Layout workers can advance to supervisory roles overseeing production teams or specialize in complex layout work for aerospace, shipbuilding, or precision manufacturing applications. Many transition into related skilled trades such as tool and die making, patternmaking, or structural metal fabrication, leveraging their foundational knowledge of blueprints and precision measurement. Some pursue additional education to become engineering technicians, quality control specialists, or manufacturing engineers. The skills in blueprint reading, mathematical calculation, and precision measurement provide a strong foundation for advancement in technical manufacturing careers.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
With 5,970 workers employed nationally, layout workers earn a median annual wage of $63,870 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, with experienced workers reaching up to $93,860. Employment is concentrated in manufacturing (3,870 workers) and government sectors (1,010 workers), reflecting demand from aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing. Geographic wage variation is significant, ranging from $87,570 in Hawaii to $25,170 in Puerto Rico (3.48x ratio), often correlating with local aerospace and shipbuilding industries. The specialized nature of this work and relatively small workforce suggests stable demand for skilled practitioners, particularly in industries requiring precision metal fabrication and complex assembly operations.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Layout work faces moderate automation pressure as CAD/CAM systems and CNC programming reduce some manual layout requirements, but the role's emphasis on complex problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and hands-on fitting operations provides protection. The high importance of activities like handling and moving objects (4.2), inspecting equipment and materials (4.2), and making decisions and solving problems (3.7) involves cognitive and physical skills that remain difficult to automate fully. Workers who adapt to integrate digital tools like AutoCAD with traditional layout techniques will likely maintain strong employment prospects.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [task_similarity] Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters (51-2041.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve fitting and aligning fabricated parts, using measuring instruments for precision alignment, and working with metal structural components.
    data: Fit and align fabricated parts to be welded or assembled
    data: Locate center lines and verify template positions using measuring instruments
  [skill_overlap] Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic (51-4062.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both occupations require design knowledge (3.8 importance), visualization abilities (3.8 importance), and template creation from technical specifications.
    data: Design and prepare templates of wood, paper, or metal
    data: Design knowledge (imp:3.8, lvl:4.5)
  [knowledge_overlap] Sheet Metal Workers (47-2211.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Shared emphasis on mathematics knowledge (4.1 importance), mechanical knowledge (3.5 importance), and building/construction knowledge (3.3 importance).
    data: Mathematics knowledge (imp:4.1, lvl:4.2)
    data: Mechanical knowledge (imp:3.5, lvl:4.0)
    data: Mark curves, lines, holes, dimensions
  [career_pathway] Tool and Die Makers (51-4111.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Tool and die making represents a natural advancement path requiring similar mathematical precision, blueprint reading, and dimensional layout skills with higher complexity.
    data: Mathematics knowledge (imp:4.1, lvl:4.2)
    data: Design knowledge (imp:3.8, lvl:4.5)
    data: Job Zone 2 to higher complexity progression
  [riasec_cluster] Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers (51-2011.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations share realistic-conventional RIASEC profiles emphasizing hands-on problem-solving with structured, detail-oriented assembly work.
    data: RIASEC R:6.48, C:3.89
    data: Lay out and fabricate metal structural parts
    data: Aircraft Lay Out Worker job title

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['layout worker', 'layout technician', 'dimensional inspector', 'metal layout', 'plastic layout', 'fabrication layout', 'shipfitter', 'layout mechanic']
  exclude_keywords : ['graphic layout', 'page layout', 'web layout', 'interior design', 'landscape']
  title_patterns   : ['Layout Worker', 'Layout Tech', 'Layout Inspector', 'Lay-Out Worker', 'Layout Fabricator']
  common_variations: ['layout worker', 'lay-out worker', 'layout technician', 'layout tech', 'layout inspector', 'layout mechanic', 'layout fabricator', 'dimensional inspector']
Semantic Manifold — 40 terms · 5 provenance layers employment_word_extractor.py · sources: onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference · Constitutional Law III
total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['tendency', 'others', 'equipment', 'principles', 'objects', 'materials', 'layout', 'workpieces', 'metal', 'control', 'production', 'includes', 'design', 'operations', 'techniques', 'tools', 'precision', 'products', 'ideas', 'body']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tendency                   42  0.01453  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     38  0.01315  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
equipment                  26  0.00900  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  dwas:8%  inference:4%
principles                 18  0.00623  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
objects                    17  0.00588  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:71%  wikipedia:24%  inference:6%
materials                  16  0.00554  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:62%  dwas:19%  inference:12%
layout                     14  0.00484  inference            inference:86%  onet_tasks:14%
workpieces                 13  0.00450  dwas                 dwas:62%  onet_tasks:23%  inference:15%
metal                      13  0.00450  inference            inference:46%  onet_tasks:23%  dwas:23%
control                    13  0.00450  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  inference:8%
production                 12  0.00415  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:25%  dwas:8%
includes                   12  0.00415  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
design                     11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:55%  onet_tasks:18%  dwas:18%
operations                 11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:55%  inference:36%  onet_tasks:9%
techniques                 11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:91%  inference:9%
tools                      11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:45%  wikipedia:27%  inference:27%
precision                  11  0.00381  inference            inference:73%  onet_dimensions:18%  wikipedia:9%
products                   11  0.00381  dwas                 dwas:55%  onet_dimensions:45%
ideas                      11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
body                       11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:91%  wikipedia:9%
manufacturing              11  0.00381  inference            inference:82%  wikipedia:18%
problems                   10  0.00346  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
standards                  10  0.00346  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:80%  wikipedia:10%  inference:10%
activities                 10  0.00346  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  inference:10%
hand                        9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  onet_tasks:11%  inference:11%
rules                       9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  onet_tasks:11%
problem                     9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
procedures                  9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  dwas:11%
resources                   9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
quickly                     9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
orientation                 9  0.00311  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
monitoring                  8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
understand                  8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
needs                       8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
quality                     8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  inference:25%
providing                   8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
moving                      8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
physical                    8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  inference:25%
events                      8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
actions                     8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
◈ Boise Standard Employment Graph · 51-4192.00 · built 2026-06-02 · Sources declared above are authoritative originals. This page synthesizes but does not replace them. Every claim traceable. Full provenance. Constitutional Law I.
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