Production
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Also called: CNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist), CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer), Metal Model Maker, Model Builder
US median pay
$63,340
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
-17.3%
declining
Openings a year (US)
200
2,600 employed
Typical entry education
High school diploma or equivalent
Preparation 3/5 · Medium preparation
What this job is
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.
What they do day to day
- 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.
- Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
- Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Operation and Control3.6/5
- Operations Monitoring3.5/5
- Quality Control Analysis3.2/5
- Troubleshooting3.0/5
- Time Management3.0/5
- Judgment and Decision Making3.0/5
- Equipment Selection3.0/5
- Repairing2.9/5
Knowledge
- Mechanical4.3/5
- Mathematics4.0/5
- Production and Processing3.9/5
- Design3.9/5
- Engineering and Technology3.8/5
- Computers and Electronics2.9/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 3 of 5 — Medium preparation. Usually vocational training, an associate's degree or an apprenticeship.
Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent.
Highest education of people in this job:
- High school diploma41%
- Post-secondary certificate38%
- Some college15%
Who this job suits
Mostly Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.