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Figure Model Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Oakland Community College

Art Models

MI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Poses for Art Figure Drawing classes. * Must be able to provide a variety of poses, from short ... Must be 18 years of age or older. * 1 year of experience of classroom modeling experience preferred.

iLocatum

OB/GYN Physician

Rochester Hills, MI · On-site

$400K - $600K/yr

Specific figures to be confirmed with the practice. The OB/GYN in this role provides full-spectrum ... You will work within a rotating clinical support staff model that keeps the focus on direct patient ...

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All JobsFigure Model JobsFigure Model Jobs in Detroit, MI

Figure Model information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$9

$45

$141

How much do figure model jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for figure model in Detroit, MI is $45.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $71.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a figure model?

A figure model, also known as a nude model or art model, assists art students who are learning to draw the human form. You carry out your duties in an art class, and your responsibilities are to pose nude and remain still as students draw what they see. This form of art is similar to still life drawing but using people as the subject. Figure model positions are usually on a contract basis, paying by the hour or per diem. Each assignment may last between one and several hours, depending on how long the class is and how detailed they need to make their drawings.

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

To thrive as a Figure Model, you need body awareness, the ability to hold poses for extended periods, punctuality, and professionalism, though formal qualifications are not typically required. Familiarity with art studio protocols and experience in modeling for artists are valuable, and some positions may require previous modeling experience or an understanding of anatomy. Patience, reliability, and strong communication skills help models work effectively with artists and instructors. These skills ensure high-quality reference for artists and contribute to productive, respectful studio environments.

What can I expect during a typical figure modeling session, and how should I prepare?

During a typical figure modeling session, you will be asked to hold a variety of poses—both short gestures and longer, sustained ones—while artists draw, paint, or sculpt. Sessions are often held in art studios or classrooms with a relaxed and professional atmosphere. Preparation involves arriving on time, wearing a robe or comfortable clothing for breaks, and being ready for both clothed and nude poses, depending on the assignment. Good communication with the instructor and artists is key, and it's important to stretch beforehand to help maintain poses comfortably.

What is the difference between Figure Model vs Life Model?

AspectFigure ModelLife Model
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications requiredOften requires life drawing classes or art education
Work EnvironmentStudios, art schools, or private sessionsArt classes, studios, or art schools
Industry UsageUsed in art, animation, and gaming industriesPrimarily in art education and practice
Search & Comparison IntentFigure Model vs Life Model

Figure Models and Life Models are both essential in art education and industry, but they differ mainly in context. Figure Models often refer to posed models used for artistic reference, while Life Models typically participate in live drawing classes. Both roles require posing skills, but Figure Models may not need formal art training, whereas Life Models often have some background in art or modeling. Understanding these differences helps artists and students choose the right model for their needs.

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What job categories do people searching Figure Model jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Figure Model jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Figure Model jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Figure Model job openings:

Figure Model jobs near you
Infographic showing various Figure Model job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,956 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Figure Model

College for Creative Studies (CCS)

Detroit, MI • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

STATUS:              Part Time / as needed
DIVISION:            Illustration
REPORTS TO:     Illustration Program Manager / Model Coordinator
SUPERVISES:      N/A
FLSA STATUS:    Non-Exempt

POSITION DESCRIPTION:   Figure Models, under the general supervision of the Illustration Program Manager / Model Coordinator and CCS faculty, support the delivery of curricula, providing students with an opportunity to develop their craft in a professional, controlled environment. Through working with Figure Models, students increase their perceptual and hand skills, develop a deeper understanding of anatomy and proportion, and connect to histories of artistic production.
 
POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Pose for art studio classes in various departments.
  • Models work varying shifts, as scheduled by the Illustration Program Manager / Model Coordinator.
  •  Arrive at scheduled shifts with adequate time (10 minutes) prior to the start of class, to discuss set up with faculty or uninstructed course participants.
  • Punctuality and flexibility in meeting scheduling demands.
  •  Demonstrate the flexibility and animation of the human form.
  • Provide traditional gestures and poses, as well as anatomical studies.
  • TIME REQUIRED: As scheduled by the Model Coordinator, from 3 to 6 hours. Hours include evenings and weekends.
  • Maintain professional boundaries with students and faculty at all times.
  • Follow the College’s protocols regarding breaks, robes, and studio etiquette.
  • Communicate availability and scheduling changes clearly and promptly with the Program Manager / Model Coordinator
 
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • 6 months or more of previous figure modeling experience
  • Familiarity with visual arts is preferred.
  • Must be comfortable posing in various stages of dress.
  • Must be able to communicate effectively and promptly via CCS email and/or text message
  • Must have excellent punctuality and timeliness. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to hold a variety of poses for artists working in different visual media stationary position, be physically able to provide a full range of body gestures and poses, from quick gestures (30 seconds to 2 minutes) to long, sustained poses (30 minutes), be physically able to maintain a static pose for up to 30 minutes at time, be able to re-establish posed positions for long-term modeling sessions, and communicate effectively in person, by phone, and virtually. Frequent interaction with others, including staff, faculty, students and third parties is required.  The employee may occasionally be required to move files or other objects weighing up to 15 pounds, including from low and high places.  The employee may occasionally be required to kneel, crouch, or grip. The ability to move around within the office and between buildings on campus, and travel between Ford Campus site to Taubman Center site are required.  CCS will make reasonable accommodations that will allow individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:  This job operates in a professional office and college campus environment.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions.
 
 
ABOUT CCS:  The College for Creative Studies (CCS) is a nonprofit, private college authorized by the Michigan Education Department to grant Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. CCS, located in midtown Detroit, strives to provide students with the tools needed for successful careers in the dynamic and growing creative industries. CCS fosters students’ resolve to pursue excellence, act ethically, engage their responsibilities as citizens, and learn throughout their lives. With world-class faculty and unsurpassed facilities, students learn to be visual communicators who actively use art and design toward the betterment of society. The College is a major supplier of talent to numerous industries, such as transportation, film and animation, advertising and communications, consumer electronics, athletic apparel, and many more. Its graduates are exhibiting artists and teachers, design problem solvers and innovators, as well as creative leaders in business.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:    Applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. The search will close when a suitable candidate is hired.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:     Submit letter of interest and resume, include the names of three professional references to:  hr@ccsdetroit.edu
 
CCS Website:   http://www.collegeforcreativestudies.edu
 
The College for Creative Studies, a leading college of art and design, represents a community composed of individuals with many perspectives, personal experiences, values, identities and worldviews and we value the diversity this brings to our organization.  CCS is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to age, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, height, weight, gender identity, marital or veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.
The College for Creative Studies subscribes to the principle of equal opportunity in its employment, admissions and educational practices and strives to provide an environment and workplace free from unlawful harassment or discrimination. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are part of our Core Institutional Values and we encourage applications from all individuals.