Model Maker

Your Fit

Income

$63K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

-18.8%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Model Maker?

Model Makers are skilled craftsmen who create three-dimensional scale models, primarily for prototyping, architectural presentations, and industrial design. They combine artistry and engineering to create detailed replicas and prototypes from various materials.

Sample job titles:

Metal Model Maker, Model Builder, Model Maker, Molding Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Model Maker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Model Maker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$38K per year	$49K per year	$63K per year	$80K per year	$96K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $13K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Model Maker do?

Work environment

Model Makers work in diverse settings, including manufacturing companies, architectural firms, design studios, and special effects companies. The work environment is typically a workshop or studio setting, equipped with various tools and machinery. Precision and attention to safety are essential due to the use of sharp instruments and potentially hazardous materials.

Quick task list

Designs and creates scale models based on blueprints or conceptual drawings.
Selects appropriate materials and tools for model construction.
Uses machinery and hand tools to shape materials into detailed components.
Assembles parts to create the final model.
Finishes models with painting, texturing, and detailing.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Architectural Model Making: Creating scale models of buildings and structures for architects.
Industrial Design Modeling: Producing prototypes for product development in industries like automotive or consumer electronics.
Film and Theater Set Models: Crafting detailed scale models for film and theater production.
Aerospace Model Making: Specializing in models for aerospace applications, including aircraft and spacecraft.
Educational Model Making: Creating models for educational purposes, such as museum displays or teaching aids.

Description

Model Makers are vital in translating ideas into tangible forms. They collaborate closely with designers, engineers, and architects to understand the specifications and purposes of the models they create. This role requires a blend of creativity and technical skill, as Model Makers must accurately interpret design plans and execute them with precision. They need a thorough understanding of materials such as wood, plastic, metal, and composites, and how these materials can be manipulated to achieve desired outcomes.

The job involves a significant amount of problem-solving. Model Makers often have to figure out how to turn complex designs into workable models, which requires innovative thinking and ingenuity. They use a variety of tools, from traditional hand tools to advanced machinery like CNC routers and 3D printers. Familiarity with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is increasingly important in this field.

Model Making is a profession that offers a unique blend of artistic expression and practical engineering. It appeals to those who enjoy crafting by hand and have an eye for detail. The field is evolving with technology, incorporating digital fabrication methods alongside traditional model-making techniques.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The creativity involved in bringing designs to life in a tangible form.
The diversity of projects and materials worked with.
The satisfaction of contributing to the development of new products or architectural designs.

You might make a good Model Maker if you are...

Skilled in working with your hands and have an eye for detail.
Creative, with the ability to visualize designs and bring them to life.
Proficient in using a variety of tools and machinery.
Able to interpret blueprints and design schematics.
Interested in a career that blends artistry with technical skill.

Pros:

High level of creativity and variety in daily work.
Opportunities to work in multiple industries.
Satisfaction in seeing projects

evolve from concept to physical model.

Cons:

Potentially long hours to meet project deadlines.
Risk of injury from tools and machinery.
The need to continuously update skills with new technology and materials.

How to become a Model Maker

Typical education

A high school diploma is generally required, with many Model Makers having completed post-secondary training in fields like industrial design, fine arts, or engineering. Vocational schools or community college programs that offer courses in model making, woodworking, or metalworking can provide valuable skills. The training period can vary from one to two years.

High school preparation

Courses:

Art and design to develop creativity and an understanding of aesthetics.
Woodworking, metal shop, or any technical courses that involve hands-on creation.
Mathematics, especially geometry, for understanding shapes and dimensions.
Computer science or graphic design for skills in CAD software.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in clubs related to art, design, or robotics.
Engaging in DIY projects or model-building hobbies.
Volunteering for set design in theater productions or community events.

Preparation after high school

Enrolling in a vocational or technical school with a focus on model making, industrial design, or similar fields.
Pursuing internships or apprenticeships in design studios, architectural firms, or manufacturing companies.
Taking courses in advanced technologies like 3D printing or CNC machining.

More resources

Association of Professional Model Makers (APMM) - A professional association offering resources, networking, and industry information.
International Federation of Model Makers - Provides a global perspective on the profession and opportunities for collaboration.
CAD Software Tutorials (e.g., Lynda.com) - Online courses for learning CAD software skills.
Maker Faire - A celebration of innovation and DIY culture, offering inspiration and networking opportunities.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.