CFChooseField
Production

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

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.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
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Median pay

$62,700
Median annual pay for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

-18.2%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

300
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

3,200
Estimated U.S. employment for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

-600
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

High school diploma or equivalent
Typical additional preparation: Moderate-term on-the-job training.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Critical Thinking
  2. 2Monitoring
  3. 3Reading Comprehension
  4. 4Active Listening
  5. 5Mathematics
  6. 6Speaking

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Mechanical
  2. 2Mathematics
  3. 3Production and Processing
  4. 4Design
  5. 5Engineering and Technology
  6. 6Computers and Electronics

Abilities

  1. 1Near Vision
  2. 2Visualization
  3. 3Arm-Hand Steadiness
  4. 4Control Precision
  5. 5Finger Dexterity
  6. 6Manual Dexterity

Career interests

  1. 1Realistic
  2. 2Conventional
  3. 3Investigative
  4. 4Artistic
  5. 5Social
  6. 6Enterprising

Work styles

  1. 1Attention to Detail
  2. 2Dependability
  3. 3Cautiousness
  4. 4Achievement Orientation
  5. 5Perseverance
  6. 6Intellectual Curiosity

Work activities

  1. 1Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  2. 2Controlling Machines and Processes
  3. 3Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
  4. 4Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  5. 5Getting Information
  6. 6Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events

Work context

  1. 1Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
  2. 2Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
  3. 3Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  4. 4Spend Time Standing
  5. 5Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
  6. 6Time Pressure

Representative tasks

  • 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.

Software and tools

Microsoft Excel · hot technologyMicrosoft Office software · hot technologyMicrosoft Word · hot technologyCNC Software MastercamPTC Creo Parametric

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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