We are looking for a studio technical expert that executes clay models by developing aesthetic surfaces which meet timing and surface quality requirements while mentoring multiple program sculpting ...
We are looking for a studio technical expert that executes clay models by developing aesthetic surfaces which meet timing and surface quality requirements while mentoring multiple program sculpting ...
We are looking for a studio technical expert that executes clay models by developing aesthetic surfaces which meet timing and surface quality requirements while mentoring multiple program sculpting ...
We are looking for a studio technical expert that executes clay models by developing aesthetic surfaces which meet timing and surface quality requirements while mentoring multiple program sculpting ...
Senior Automotive Exterior Designer
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$36/hr
The successful candidate will have to develop both conceptual and production based exterior solutions in the form of sketch, rendering and 3D digital and clay models. · Having the ability to think ...
Quick apply
Senior Automotive Exterior Designer
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$36/hr
The successful candidate will have to develop both conceptual and production based exterior solutions in the form of sketch, rendering and 3D digital and clay models. · Having the ability to think ...
Design Fabricator
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$74K - $124K/yr
As a Design Fabricator, you'll bring Ford's most ambitious design concepts to life-transforming clay models, sketches, and digital data into precision physical forms that shape the vehicles of ...
Design Fabricator
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$74K - $124K/yr
As a Design Fabricator, you'll bring Ford's most ambitious design concepts to life-transforming clay models, sketches, and digital data into precision physical forms that shape the vehicles of ...
Design Fabricator
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$74K - $124K/yr
As a Design Fabricator, you'll bring Ford's most ambitious design concepts to life-transforming clay models, sketches, and digital data into precision physical forms that shape the vehicles of ...
Design Fabricator
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$74K - $124K/yr
As a Design Fabricator, you'll bring Ford's most ambitious design concepts to life-transforming clay models, sketches, and digital data into precision physical forms that shape the vehicles of ...
Technical Sculptor
Warren, MI · On-site
Executes clay or digital models by developing aesthetic surfaces that meet time and quality requirements as directed by Sculpting Leadership. Contributes to problem solving by collaborating with ...
Technical Sculptor
Warren, MI · On-site
Executes clay or digital models by developing aesthetic surfaces that meet time and quality requirements as directed by Sculpting Leadership. Contributes to problem solving by collaborating with ...
Technical Sculptor
Warren, MI · Hybrid
Executes clay or digital models by developing aesthetic surfaces that meet time and quality requirements as directed by Sculpting Leadership. Contributes to problem solving by collaborating with ...
Technical Sculptor
Warren, MI · Hybrid
Executes clay or digital models by developing aesthetic surfaces that meet time and quality requirements as directed by Sculpting Leadership. Contributes to problem solving by collaborating with ...
DRE Senior - Transmissions - Electric Drive Module 1432096
Auburn Hills, MI · On-site
$42 - $46/hr
The Design and Release Engineer will provide feasibility input for development of designs from Product Design Office (PDO) concepts, sketch, and clay models. Establish and manage development timeline ...
DRE Senior - Transmissions - Electric Drive Module 1432096
Auburn Hills, MI · On-site
$42 - $46/hr
The Design and Release Engineer will provide feasibility input for development of designs from Product Design Office (PDO) concepts, sketch, and clay models. Establish and manage development timeline ...
Design Release Engineer - Interior Hard Trim Components
Auburn Hills, MI · On-site
$38 - $43.50/hr
Provide feasibility input for development of designs from Product Design Office (PDO) concepts, sketch, and clay models. Establish and manage development timeline for life of project. The Engineer ...
Design Release Engineer - Interior Hard Trim Components
Auburn Hills, MI · On-site
$38 - $43.50/hr
Provide feasibility input for development of designs from Product Design Office (PDO) concepts, sketch, and clay models. Establish and manage development timeline for life of project. The Engineer ...
Janitor, Dept. 5, 1st Shift
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$13.75 - $17.50/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Janitor, Dept. 5, 1st Shift
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$13.75 - $17.50/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Secondary Machine Operator
$16.25 - $19.50/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Secondary Machine Operator
$16.25 - $19.50/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Packer
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$14 - $16.75/hr
Ability to learn the difference between Pridgeon & Clay order numbers and customer order numbers ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Packer
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$14 - $16.75/hr
Ability to learn the difference between Pridgeon & Clay order numbers and customer order numbers ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Prototype Engineering Design Manager
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$115K - $218K/yr
Interior and exterior clay model armatures * Support the development of prototype build plans, lead the team through delivering data on time and with quality * Work collaboratively with design ...
Prototype Engineering Design Manager
Dearborn, MI · On-site
$115K - $218K/yr
Interior and exterior clay model armatures * Support the development of prototype build plans, lead the team through delivering data on time and with quality * Work collaboratively with design ...
Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Quick apply
Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Janitor, Dept. 5, 1st Shift
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18.50 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Janitor, Dept. 5, 1st Shift
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18.50 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Secondary Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Secondary Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Welding Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Quick apply
Welding Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Janitor, Dept. 5, 1st Shift
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18.50 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Quick apply
Janitor, Dept. 5, 1st Shift
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18.50 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Welding Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Welding Machine Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$18 - $19/hr
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value ... Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity ...
Clay Modeler information
See Michigan salary details
$9.6K - $17.1K
0% of jobs
$17.1K - $24.6K
0% of jobs
$24.6K - $32.1K
0% of jobs
$32.1K - $39.5K
0% of jobs
$39.5K - $47K
0% of jobs
$47K - $54.5K
0% of jobs
$54.5K - $62K
0% of jobs
$62K - $69.5K
0% of jobs
$69.5K - $77K
0% of jobs
$79.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$77K - $84.5K
65% of jobs
$86.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$84.5K - $92K
35% of jobs
$9.6K
$92K
How much do clay modeler jobs pay per year?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Clay Modeler, and why are they important?
How much do Ford Clay modelers make?
How do clay modelers typically collaborate with designers and engineers during the automotive design process?
What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?
What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?
What is the difference between Clay Modeler vs Sculptor?
| Aspect | Clay Modeler | Sculptor |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a degree in art, sculpture, or related field; specialized training in clay modeling | Often has formal art education; skills in various sculpting materials, including clay, stone, or metal |
| Work Environment | Design studios, animation, film, or toy industries; working with clay and modeling tools | Art studios, galleries, public spaces; working with diverse sculpting materials |
| Industry Usage | Common in animation, character design, product prototyping | Found in fine arts, public art, and sculpture commissions |
While both roles involve sculpting skills, a Clay Modeler specializes in creating detailed models primarily for animation, design, or prototyping using clay. A Sculptor has a broader focus on creating artistic sculptures in various materials, often for fine art or public displays. The roles overlap in skills but differ in purpose and industry application.
What are clay modelers?
How to become a clay modeler?
What Does a Clay Modeler Do?
The job duties of a clay modeler include creating a 3D model based on a design sketch or a 2D concept image. Clay modeling involves working to develop full-size models that have accurate measurements and details. Your responsibilities in this career depend on the type of industry for which you are making the models. You may work in auto design or create images for appliances, boats, or other large manufactured items. Your models focus on surface areas, though you may also need to provide models of interior spaces.

General Motors rating
8.2
General Motors
Based on 304 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
7.4
Automakers average
Based on 6,260 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Job Description
General Motors Creative Design organization is transforming the future of transportation and mobility solutions. We are seeking a pivotal role in our Sculpting organization. We are looking for a studio technical expert that executes clay models by developing aesthetic surfaces which meet timing and surface quality requirements while mentoring multiple program sculpting teams. In this role you will contribute to problem solving with design and engineering stakeholders. You will mentor others in efficient methods for developing models, integrating recent technologies and creating workflows while providing technical expertise and guidance to cross functional studio teams. We are looking for both Exterior Clay Sculptors and Interior Clay Sculptors.
If this sounds like your next step, we'd love to hear from you!
What You'll Do (Responsibilities);
- Exhibits a safety mindset while identifying, taking ownership and resolving safety concerns
- Develops high quality aesthetic surfaces for clay models throughout the GVDP
- Active participant in studio and patio reviews. Contributes expert aesthetic judgement with the studio design team by offering 3D solutions
- Support surface releases which meet Design approval, production engineering, and data release requirements
- Comprehend program timelines and all related model quality requirements
- Adhere to and assist in developing common GM Global Design processes / best practices
- Frequently assists studio personnel in developing solutions to engineering and design problems
- Mentor others in achieving GVDP modeling standards and raise concerns if quality standards are not met
- Collaborates with technical SMEs and lead sculptors to discuss continuous improvement and clay training strategies
- Facilitates Peer Reviews and provide feedback on surface construction techniques, quality expectations and continuous improvement strategies
- Adheres to and reinforce corporate communication systems (timekeeping, email, etc.)
- Shares responsibility with Sculpting Lead in model quality for shows and reviews
- Maintains professional model sites
Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications):
- 5+ years of professional experience in automotive clay modeling
- Demonstrates the courage to make the changes that will improve the organization and helps others overcome their resistance to change
- Expert level of creative/technical proficiency
- Expertise in the use of creative sculpting tools
- Expert level of sketch interpretation/ability to translate design input into 3D models
- Ability to mentor/teach all aspects of clay sculpting, model set ups and milling integration.
- Seeks opportunities for innovation by executing on latest ideas and implementing continuous improvement initiatives
- Associated degree or equivalent industry related experience
- A portfolio is not required but is preferred
What Will Give You The Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualification):
- 7+ years of professional experience in automotive clay modeling
- Significant experience working directly for OEMs
- Proven ability to balance speed and surface knowledge
- High level of comprehension of surface development, and ability to showcase this during the interview process
- Skilled in articulating verbal concepts and executing visions from verbal and sketched directions.
- The ability to interpret styling aesthetics and brand identity and translate them physically.
PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
We strongly recommend linking your online portfolio in the "website" section of the application as we are able to access much larger files that way. If your portfolio is not available online, please follow the instructions below to upload your portfolio as a separate attachment as you did with the resume. Please NO dropbox files or Google docs.
1. Save your portfolio as a pdf document
2. Name your portfolio your LAST NAME, FIRST NAME. Example: Candidate name is John Smith. Portfolio pdf file name is: Smith, John.pdf
3. Upload as an attachment - you may have to condense the file.
DISCLAIMER: The Works included in your Career Portfolio must not be subject to any non-disclosure and/or confidentiality agreement. If the Works in your Career Portfolio are owned by your current or former employer, or by any other Third Party, there must be an express written consent from the Owner allowing the Works to be included in your Career Portfolio for sharing with General Motors ("GM"). By sharing your Career Portfolio, you grant to GM the right to quote, paraphrase, reproduce, distribute, or otherwise use all or any portion of the Career Portfolio for purposes of making a hiring determination. By sharing your Career Portfolio, you also agree to release and discharge GM, and its licensees, successors, and assigns, from any and all claims, demands, or causes of action that you may have regarding any use of the Career Portfolio, including (but not limited to) any claims based on the right to privacy, the right to publicity, copyright, libel, defamation, or any other right.
Relocation: This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
Sponsorship:GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DONOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP (e.g., H-1B, TN,STEM OPT, etc.) NOW OR IN THE FUTURE.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.
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About General Motors
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General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.
Industry
Transportation equipment manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Detroit, MI, US
Year founded
1908