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Automotive Clay Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Janitor, Dept. 5, 2nd Shift

Grand Rapids, MI

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

... Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value-added manufacturers and suppliers of automotive ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...

This position is responsible for creating digital armature models and managing the release and execution of build requests for physical properties. It requires close coordination with cross ...

Secondary Machine Operator

Grand Rapids, MI

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value-added manufacturers and suppliers of automotive ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...

Machine Operator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

... Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value-added manufacturers and suppliers of automotive ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...

... for automotive and mobility applications. You will create fresh, innovative designs with the ... You will follow design process from the sketch form to the final release clay model. If you are ...

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Automotive Clay Modeling information

See salary details

$11K

$105.5K

How much do automotive clay modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for automotive clay modeling in the United States is $97,166.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by automotive clay modelers during the design process?

Automotive clay modelers often face challenges such as translating digital designs into precise, tangible models and ensuring that every curve and contour accurately reflects the designer’s vision. Balancing creative input with strict engineering and manufacturing requirements can also be demanding, as models must be both visually appealing and feasible for production. Additionally, working collaboratively with designers, engineers, and other modelers is essential, requiring strong communication and adaptability to incorporate feedback quickly and efficiently.

Do car companies still use clay models?

Automotive clay modeling remains an important part of the car design process, with car companies using clay models to refine vehicle shapes and details before digital modeling and manufacturing. Clay modeling specialists work in design studios, often collaborating with CAD tools and prototype teams to ensure accurate and aesthetic vehicle prototypes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive Clay Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive Clay Modeler, you need strong artistic ability, spatial visualization, and a background in industrial design or a related field. Familiarity with specialized tools like clay modeling instruments, 3D scanners, and CAD software is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of accurate, innovative, and visually compelling vehicle prototypes that align with design objectives.

How much do Ford clay modelers make?

Ford clay modelers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. The role involves detailed sculpting skills, often requiring proficiency with modeling tools and materials, and may include benefits and overtime pay.

What is the highest paying job in automotive?

In automotive, high-paying roles include automotive design directors, engineering managers, and senior vehicle development engineers, often requiring advanced degrees and extensive experience. These positions typically involve leadership, specialized technical skills, and oversight of large projects, with salaries reaching six figures or more.

How to become a car clay modeler?

To become a car clay modeler, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with skills in sculpture, design, and knowledge of automotive aesthetics. Many professionals gain experience through specialized training, apprenticeships, or a degree in industrial design or automotive design, and proficiency with sculpting tools and materials is essential.

What is automotive clay modeling?

Automotive clay modeling is a process used in the automotive design industry to create full-scale or scale models of vehicles using a special type of industrial clay. Designers and modelers use clay to sculpt and refine the shape of a car, allowing teams to visualize, evaluate, and make adjustments to the vehicle’s exterior before manufacturing. This hands-on method remains integral to car design because it provides a tangible, three-dimensional representation that digital models cannot fully replicate.

What is the difference between Automotive Clay Modeling vs Automotive CAD Designer?

AspectAutomotive Clay ModelingAutomotive CAD Designer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, or associate degree; hands-on skillsBachelor's degree in engineering, design, or related field; proficiency in CAD software
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, workshops, automotive manufacturersOffice settings, design studios, engineering departments
Industry UsagePhysical prototype development, early-stage design refinementDigital modeling, detailed design, engineering documentation
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Automotive Clay Modeling involves hands-on sculpting of physical clay models to visualize and refine vehicle designs, while Automotive CAD Designers create detailed digital models using computer-aided design software. Both roles are essential in the automotive design process but differ in tools, environment, and skill sets.

Infographic showing various Automotive Clay Modeling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,166 per year, or $46.7 per hour.
Janitor, Dept. 5, 2nd Shift

Janitor, Dept. 5, 2nd Shift

Pridgeon & Clay

Grand Rapids, MI

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Are you looking for a challenging yet rewarding job that allows you to utilize your skills to their fullest potential? Do you want to join a team of hardworking, enthusiastic and creative people and enjoy working with a company that recognizes and embraces diversity? Do you take pride working with a company that is committed to being a great corporate citizen and playing a role in producing the highest quality products and services?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Pridgeon and Clay is the place for you...

Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value-added manufacturers and suppliers of automotive stamped and fine-blanked components in the United States.

Objective: The Janitor - Facilities effectively and efficiently keep the plant, office and grounds clean and presentable to our teams and to our customers. Maintain them in an exemplary manner according to the company quality policies

Qualified candidates will possess the following Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Three months of industrial janitorial experience
  • Experience using high speed burnishing and walk behind floor scrubbers
  • P&C hilo license (or the ability to pass both written and practical tests to obtain one)
  • An excellent work record (i.e. limited employee warnings), including attendance.

(Minimum requirements are updated annually to meet the demands of various positions; employees hired prior to the latest revision update may not meet all current requirements)

Essential Functions:

  • Clean office floors, windows and walls. This includes dusting, buffing, stripping and waxing
  • Clean and maintain restrooms. This includes cleaning toilets, urinals, sinks, vanities, walls, mirrors, and floors while keeping cleaning supplies such as toilet tissue, soaps and hand towels amply supplied.
  • Change mop buckets, snakes, and soaker pads as needed.
  • Empty trash and recycle paper receptacles and baskets. Ensure recycled paper baskets display the laminated directions for recycling. Also, bail stretch wrap as needed.
  • Clean our facility throughout. Keep our sidewalks free of debris and trash and maintain the inside of our facility by cleaning carpets and floors using the appropriate equipment and cleaning supplies.
  • Clean areas that are assigned which may include sidewalks, wash bays and truck wells. This will require the use of various types of equipment including, but not limited to, hi lo's, man lifts, high pressure wash systems, walk behind floor scrubbers and riding sweeper/scrubbers along with any piece of equipment we may have to clean our facility.
  • Capable of performing cleaning as needed in confined spaces. (Must have permit)
  • Operate a hilo to dump cardboard and garbage that has accumulated throughout the plant.

Organization/Communication/Professionalism:

  • Effectively communicate with co-workers and management personnel to enhance teamwork and communication initiatives.
  • Provide necessary, accurate, and timely feedback of all pertinent information to co-workers and management.
  • Consistently exhibit appropriate attendance habits, working the hours necessary to perform the job.
  • Organize and maintain efficiency of personal work area.
  • Consistently adhere to, and support, company policies and procedures, including ISO, IATF 16949, and safety regulations.
  • Accept instructions and duties in a positive manner.
  • Treat all co-workers with dignity and respect.
  • Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity, and positive attitude) for employees and managers to emulate.
  • Assist in maintaining company values (Integrity, People, Customers, Safety, We Can If...Do What It Takes, and Ownership) daily, through thoughts and actions.

In return, Pridgeon and Clay will provide:

  • A competitive total compensation including a comprehensive benefit plan including premium medical and prescription coverage starting at just $10.00 per week for employee coverage, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, and tuition reimbursement.
  • A safe, team oriented work environment with a leadership team that treats you like family and values your input
  • An opportunity to participate in shaping the success of the organization through continuous improvement and problem solving events
  • A positive work/life balance
  • An opportunity for career growth - Over 70% of our leaders have been promoted from within