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Clay Modeler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Enterprise Knowledge

Semantic Modeler

Arlington, VA · On-site

Enterprise Knowledge (EK) is hiring for a full-time Semantic Modeler to join our growing Knowledge and Data Services Sector. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting semantic model ...

Enterprise Knowledge

Semantic Modeler

Arlington, VA · On-site

Enterprise Knowledge (EK) is hiring for a full-time Semantic Modeler to join our growing Knowledge and Data Services Sector. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting semantic model ...

Auterion

RevOps Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... Clay. * Keep data flowing across CRM, ERP, product catalog, and analytics through integrations you build and maintain. * Build the forecasting and pipeline models, and the executive and board ...

Auterion

RevOps Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

... Clay. * Keep data flowing across CRM, ERP, product catalog, and analytics through integrations you build and maintain. * Build the forecasting and pipeline models, and the executive and board ...

Auterion

RevOps Manager

Arlington, VA

$140K - $170K/yr

... Clay. * Keep data flowing across CRM, ERP, product catalog, and analytics through integrations you build and maintain. * Build the forecasting and pipeline models, and the executive and board ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulic Research Engineer

Mclean, VA

CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ... Experience with clay erosion testing is highly preferred. * Knowledge of open channel hydraulics ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulic Research Engineer

Mclean, VA

CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ... Experience with clay erosion testing is highly preferred. * Knowledge of open channel hydraulics ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulic Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ... Experience with clay erosion testing is highly preferred. * Knowledge of open channel hydraulics ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulic Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ... Experience with clay erosion testing is highly preferred. * Knowledge of open channel hydraulics ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulic Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ... Experience with clay erosion testing is highly preferred. * Knowledge of open channel hydraulics ...

Genex Systems

Hydraulic Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

CFD simulations and CAD model designs may be included to complement physical tests. Once assigned a ... Experience with clay erosion testing is highly preferred. * Knowledge of open channel hydraulics ...

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All JobsClay Modeler JobsClay Modeler Jobs in Virginia

Clay Modeler information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$104.6K

How much do clay modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for clay modeler in Virginia is $96,333.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,200.00 and $104,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Clay Modeler, you need expertise in sculpting, a strong understanding of form and proportion, and experience with automotive or industrial design, often supported by a relevant degree or vocational training. Familiarity with specialized tools like modeling knives, wire loops, and sometimes digital sculpting software such as Autodesk Alias is common in the field. Attention to detail, creativity, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with designers and engineers. These skills ensure the creation of accurate, visually appealing prototypes that guide the product development process.

How much do Ford Clay modelers make?

Clay modelers working in automotive design typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. They create detailed clay models of vehicle designs using sculpting tools and often work closely with engineers and designers during the development process.

How do clay modelers typically collaborate with designers and engineers during the automotive design process?

Clay modelers work closely with both designers and engineers to bring vehicle concepts to life, translating 2D sketches and digital renderings into full-scale or scale models. They frequently participate in feedback sessions, where designers suggest aesthetic adjustments and engineers provide input on feasibility and manufacturing constraints. This collaborative environment requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and an ability to interpret and respond to a range of creative and technical inputs. Clay modelers are often integral members of multidisciplinary design teams and their input is valued throughout iterative design reviews.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Clay modelers typically do not earn $300,000 annually; high-paying jobs in the US that reach this level include specialized roles such as senior surgeons, corporate executives, investment bankers, and certain technology executives. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and advanced certifications or education.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Clay modeler jobs are likely to decline as digital 3D modeling and computer-aided design (CAD) tools become more advanced and widely used. Automation and 3D printing may also reduce the need for traditional physical modeling roles in industries like entertainment, automotive, and product design. However, skilled artisans may still find niche opportunities in custom or artistic work that require manual craftsmanship.

What is the difference between Clay Modeler vs Sculptor?

AspectClay ModelerSculptor
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in art, sculpture, or related field; specialized training in clay modelingOften has formal art education; skills in various sculpting materials, including clay, stone, or metal
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, animation, film, or toy industries; working with clay and modeling toolsArt studios, galleries, public spaces; working with diverse sculpting materials
Industry UsageCommon in animation, character design, product prototypingFound 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?

Clay modelers are skilled professionals who create full-scale or scaled physical models, usually out of clay, to help visualize the design of products such as cars, toys, or consumer goods. In the automotive industry, clay modelers play a crucial role by turning designers' sketches and digital renderings into tangible, three-dimensional prototypes. These models allow designers and engineers to assess the look, feel, and functionality of a design before it goes into production. Clay modeling is both an artistic and technical job, requiring a keen eye for detail and craftsmanship.

How to become a clay modeler?

To become a clay modeler, develop skills in sculpture, anatomy, and design through formal education such as art or sculpture programs, or self-study. Gaining experience with modeling tools like clay, understanding of artistic principles, and building a portfolio are essential steps; some roles may also require knowledge of 3D modeling software or working in a studio environment.

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.

More about Clay Modeler jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Clay Modeler jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Clay Modeler jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Clay Modeler jobs in Virginia? For Clay Modeler jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Clay Modeler jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Clay Modeler jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Clay Modeler jobs in VA? For Clay Modeler jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Clay Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Clay Modeler job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,333 per year, or $46.3 per hour.
Semantic Modeler

Semantic Modeler

Enterprise Knowledge

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Enterprise Knowledge (EK) is hiring for a full-time Semantic Modeler to join our growing Knowledge and Data Services Sector. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting semantic model development for client projects across the full model development spectrum, from initial use case development and discovery, through model drafting, validation, and implementation, to developing a governance plan for ongoing model improvement. You'll work with cleared federal agencies to develop strategies, guide implementation, and apply agile principles to translate business needs into clear, actionable plans.
As with all of our positions, we seek independent thinkers with exceptional written and oral communication skills. This position demands a deep understanding of business strategy and development, experience with knowledge & data management technology solutions, business analysis, and consulting skills.
Responsibilities
  • Lead semantic modeling for complex client projects from start to finish
  • Drive use case development, conducting discovery sessions to identify key model entities to inform initial model drafting
  • Conduct knowledge asset analysis activities (such as corpus analysis) to gauge model relevancy
  • Lead validation activities to engage project stakeholders and client subject matter experts (SMEs)
  • Work closely with engineering teams (internal and/or client-side) to support and ensure optimal model implementation
  • Develop governance plans to inform the ongoing maintenance and scaling of semantic models
  • Additionally, contribute to EK's robust Knowledge Base by developing thoughtful and impactful Thought Leadership

As an EK team member, you will join a fast-growing company that is committed to equity and inclusion, have the opportunity to work in a collaborative workplace, take advantage of our unique benefits, and help build our innovative culture. To read more about the impactful work we are doing and to see the latest thought leadership from EK, follow us on LinkedIn.
Requirements
  • The candidate must have an active Top Secret SCI clearance
  • At a minimum, candidates must have 6-8 years of relevant work experience (which may include time spent earning relevant advanced degrees)
  • This hybrid role requires that you live within a comfortable, commutable distance of our Arlington, VA office and be willing to work in a SKIFF up to 5 days per week
  • As a federal contractor, Enterprise Knowledge will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization, or offer any immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1, and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer

Required Skills and Qualifications:
In order to be successful in this role, you will need to have familiarity with and proven successful experience in the majority, if not all, of the following areas:
  • Previous semantic modeling experience (which may include the development of metadata, taxonomies/ thesauri, content models, data models, and/or ontologies) for enterprise-scale applications
  • Proven success applying information architecture best practices
  • Familiarity with best practices in knowledge management
  • Proven experience analyzing, evaluating, and optimizing enterprise search
  • Ability to communicate advanced concepts to a variety of audiences in a variety of formats, from interpersonal communication to visual modes, including lightweight wireframes
  • Willingness and ability to develop new skills, especially ontology and knowledge graph development

While prior experience developing ontology models and knowledge graphs is not required, you will be expected to complete advanced modeling training in-house to develop these skills and develop a proficiency in these areas in a timely manner.
Preferred Skills and Qualifications:
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate a range of the following skills:
  • Knowledge of best practices and approaches for search analytics
  • Application of user testing/ user research to inform UI/UX strategy
  • Strong data modeling skills
  • Advanced visual design skills to convey complex subjects
  • Experience developing and deploying an auto-tagging initiative to support asset findability and discoverability
  • Experience leveraging Generative AI to support semantic model development and evaluation while retaining explainability

While not required, the following will be viewed as highly beneficial for this role:
  • Advanced degree(s) in Information Science/ Library and Information Science, Engineering/Data Management, Data Engineering, Linguistics, Philosophy, or similar.
  • Content modeling experience
  • Work experience in archives, records management, special collections, or similar
Salary Information:
EK considers a broad range of factors in considering employee salary including a candidate's skills, experience, education, certifications, past successes, and qualifications. A range for a starting pay for this role is $120,000 to $135,000 with most candidates likely to fall in the lower half. This range does not guarantee a specific salary and may be adjusted based on the needs of the company and the candidate's qualifications.
Data Privacy Notice:
Enterprise Knowledge (EK) is committed to protecting your personal information. When you submit your application, we collect and process your personal data solely for recruitment and hiring purposes. We will not use your information for any other purpose without your explicit consent.
We may share your information with third parties only as necessary to evaluate your application or comply with legal requirements. If we need to use your data for a purpose beyond the original intent or disclose it to additional third parties, we will provide you with prior notice.
You have the right to access the personal information we hold about you and to request corrections, amendments, or deletion of any inaccurate data or data processed in violation of applicable privacy principles. Requests for such changes will be reviewed and accommodated unless the burden or expense of providing access would be disproportionate to the risks to your privacy, or where the rights of other individuals may be affected.
By submitting your application, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this notice. If you have any questions about how we handle your personal data or need to update your information, please contact us at careers@enterprise-knowledge.com

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