What is the salary of a Model Maker, Metal and Plastic?

The typical salary range is $43,890 - $87,780 per year.

Supply Chain & ProductionDeclining

Model Maker, Metal and Plastic

Operational-level

Also known as: Aircraft Mockup Builder, Appliances Sample Maker, Auto Manufacturing Model Maker (Automotive Manufacturing Model Maker), Clock and Watch Model Maker

Supply Chain & ProductionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

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.

Model MakingPrecision MachiningPrototypingMetalworkingPlastics ManufacturingManufacturingMechanical EngineeringProduct DevelopmentSkilled TradeProduction

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies

Microsoft Excel Microsoft Office software Microsoft Word

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

-17.3%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

200

per year (US)

Jobs today

2,600

in 2025 → 2,200 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication

Low

Working in a team

Moderate

Contact with others

Moderate

Freedom to make decisions

High

Time pressure

High

Time spent sitting

Low

Working outdoors

Low

Indoor, climate-controlled

High

Dealing with customers

Low

Level of competition

Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Declining Job Market

This field is experiencing contraction with decreasing job opportunities. Consider developing skills in related growing fields.

Career ladder

Often before this role

Machinist Apprentice
Production Assistant
Junior Fabricator

Model Maker, Metal and Plastic

Where it can lead

CAD/CAM Specialist
Prototype Engineer
Manufacturing Supervisor

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will increasingly automate repetitive machine operations and enhance precision in model making through advanced CAD/CAM integration and predictive maintenance. Model makers will likely shift towards overseeing AI-driven machinery, conducting quality assurance, and developing complex designs, requiring strong problem-solving and technical oversight skills. The role will evolve to incorporate digital fabrication and smart manufacturing processes.

Salary

$63,340

Median annual wage, BLS 2025

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position