Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Human Advantage 63%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
3.9 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
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.
Also Known As: Aircraft Mockup Builder, Appliances Sample Maker, Auto Manufacturing Model Maker (Automotive Manufacturing Model Maker), Clay Modeler, Clock and Watch Model Maker, Dioramist, Display Maker, Engineering Model Maker +37 more
Core Tasks
- Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
- Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
- Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
- Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.
- Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.
- Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
- Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
- Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.
- Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
- Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.
- Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.
- Use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software or hardware to fabricate model parts.
- Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electronic components into models or prototypes, using hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines.
- Consult and confer with engineering personnel to discuss developmental problems and to recommend product modifications.
- Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.
Supplemental Tasks (1)
- Wire and solder electrical and electronic connections and components.
Education & Training
Job Zone 3 Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (5)
Tools & Equipment (43)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Production & Automation Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 1
Sewing Machine Operators 78% match
Zone 3
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic You are here
Zone 4
Zone 5
Microsystems Engineers 75% match
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