Metal & Plastic Model Maker

Explore This Path

Perfect for those who love crafting precise models from metal and plastic.
Contribute to innovation by creating prototypes for various industries.
Use advanced machinery to bring intricate designs to life.

💰 Earn $66K-$84K

📚 High School Diploma or GED

⏱️ 12–24 MONTH TRAINING

📈 -17.6% JOB GROWTH

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What You’ll 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.

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.

Scoop

Minimum Education

High School Diploma or GED

Career Prospects

Risky (Decreasing by 5% or more)

Training Time

1 to 2 years

Job Openings

200 Annually

Median Earnings

$73,960 in California

$64,190 Nationally

$25K

$50K

$75K

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$250K

Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Time Management

You value 🙏

Accomplishing things
Having support
Job security

Deep Dive

Metal & Plastic Model Maker

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Vocational School

A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 2-3 years

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 4-5+ years