Life As a Metal and Plastic Model Maker
Metal & Plastic Model Maker 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.
A Day in the Life of a Metal & Plastic Model Maker
- Wire and solder electrical and electronic connections and components.
- Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
- Use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacture (CAM) software or hardware to fabricate model parts.
- Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.
- Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.
- Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
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Skills Needed to be a Metal & Plastic Model Maker
When polled, Metal and Plastic Model Makers say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Operation and Control: Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Operation Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Quality Control Analysis: Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Troubleshooting: Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Catalytic Converter Special Build Prototype
- Injection Mold Tooling Technician
- Prototype Special Build
- Welding Prototype Operator
- Process Mold Technician
Job Demand for Metal and Plastic Model Makers
In the United States, there were 6,300 jobs for Metal and Plastic Model Maker in 2016. There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Metal and Plastic Model Maker. The BLS estimates 600 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Metal & Plastic Model Maker are Utah, Arizona, and Florida. Watch out if you plan on working in Oregon, Kentucky, or Colorado. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Metal & Plastic Model Maker Salary
The average yearly salary of a Metal & Plastic Model Maker ranges between $31,410 and $84,250.
Metal and Plastic Model Makers who work in Washington, Massachusetts, or Colorado, make the highest salaries.
How much do Metal and Plastic Model Makers make in different U.S. states?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Arizona | $50,800 |
| California | $58,710 |
| Colorado | $62,240 |
| Connecticut | $65,590 |
| Florida | $55,720 |
| Illinois | $62,050 |
| Indiana | $46,360 |
| Iowa | $47,210 |
| Kentucky | $55,630 |
| Massachusetts | $65,900 |
| Michigan | $61,900 |
| Minnesota | $39,330 |
| Missouri | $60,370 |
| New Jersey | $57,260 |
| New York | $63,360 |
| North Carolina | $38,980 |
| Ohio | $52,400 |
| Oklahoma | $39,920 |
| Pennsylvania | $55,580 |
| South Carolina | $63,910 |
| Tennessee | $50,150 |
| Texas | $57,660 |
| Utah | $44,810 |
| Virginia | $52,290 |
| Washington | $70,040 |
| Wisconsin | $54,180 |
What Tools & Technology do Metal and Plastic Model Makers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Metal and Plastic Model Makers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- CNC Software Mastercam
How to Become a Metal & Plastic Model Maker
Learn what Metal and Plastic Model Maker education requirements there are.
What work experience do I need to become a Metal & Plastic Model Maker?
Where Metal and Plastic Model Makers Work
Metal and Plastic Model Makers work in the following industries:
Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Metal and Plastic Model Maker might also be interested in the following careers:
Are you already one of the many Metal and Plastic Model Maker in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
References:
Image Credit: US Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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