Model makers, metal and plastic
SOC Code: 51-4061Also known as:
Aircraft Mockup Builder, Appliances Sample Maker, Auto Manufacturing Model Maker (Automotive Manufacturing Model Maker), Clock and Watch Model Maker, CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist)
Median Annual Salary
$62,700
-18.2% growth (2024-2034)
300
Openings/Year
3K
Current Jobs
What Model makers, metal and plastic Do
Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.
💰 Salary
$62,700
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-18.2%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
300
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
3,200
Projected Employment (2034)
2,600
Related Careers
Engine and other machine assemblers
$52,540 •
-21.1% growth
Machinists
$56,150 •
+0.0% growth
Patternmakers, metal and plastic
$54,540 •
-24.4% growth
Tool and die makers
$63,180 •
-10.8% growth
Layout workers, metal and plastic
$61,870 •
-5.4% growth
Top Skills Required
Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Critical Thinking
Quality Control Analysis
Monitoring
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
- Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.
- Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
- Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
- Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.
- Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
- Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
- Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.
- Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
- Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Model makers, metal and plastic
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a model makers, metal and plastic:
Sheet Metal Technology/Sheetworking
386 degrees awarded •
18 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Model makers, metal and plastic
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become model makers, metal and plastic.
| # | College | Location | Related Degrees | Repit Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milwaukee Area Technical College | Milwaukee, WI | 32 | C+ |
| 2 | Foothill College | Los Altos Hills, CA | 5 | C+ |
| 3 | Columbia Basin College | Pasco, WA | 1 | C+ |
| 4 | Montana State University Billings | Billings, MT | 1 | C+ |
| 5 | Hillsborough Community College | Tampa, FL | 1 | C+ |
| 6 | Ivy Tech Community College | Indianapolis, IN | 169 | C |
| 7 | Community College of Allegheny County | Pittsburgh, PA | 46 | C |
| 8 | American River College | Sacramento, CA | 36 | C |
| 9 | Bates Technical College | Tacoma, WA | 21 | C |
| 10 | Honolulu Community College | Honolulu, HI | 14 | C |
| 11 | Saint Paul College | Saint Paul, MN | 10 | C |
| 12 | Palomar College | San Marcos, CA | 10 | C |
| 13 | Southwestern Illinois College | Belleville, IL | 9 | C |
| 14 | Miami Lakes Educational Center and Technical College | Miami Lakes, FL | 8 | C |
| 15 | Modesto Junior College | Modesto, CA | 8 | C |
| 16 | Long Beach City College | Long Beach, CA | 8 | C |
| 17 | Bakersfield College | Bakersfield, CA | 6 | C |
| 18 | College of Southern Nevada | Las Vegas, NV | 1 | C |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do model makers, metal and plastic make?
The median annual salary for model makers, metal and plastic is $62,700.
What education do model makers, metal and plastic need?
Most model makers, metal and plastic positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Sheet Metal Technology/Sheetworking.
Is becoming a model makers, metal and plastic a good career choice?
Model makers, metal and plastic is projected to see -18.2% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 300 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for model makers, metal and plastic?
Top colleges for aspiring model makers, metal and plastic include
Milwaukee Area Technical College, Foothill College, Columbia Basin College, Montana State University Billings, Hillsborough Community College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to model makers, metal and plastic?
Model makers, metal and plastic may also be known as: Aircraft Mockup Builder, Appliances Sample Maker, Auto Manufacturing Model Maker (Automotive Manufacturing Model Maker), Clock and Watch Model Maker, CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator), CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer), Dioramist, Display Maker, Engineering Model Maker, Fabricator, Firearms Model Maker, Fluorescent Lighting Model Maker, Form Builder, Injection Mold Technician (Injection Mold Tech), Injection Mold Tooling Technician (Injection Mold Tooling Tech), Jig and Fixture Builder, Mandrel Maker, Metal Mockup Maker, Metal Model Builder.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.