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Industrial Design Model Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lee Company

Tool/Model Maker

Westbrook, CT · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Tool/Model Maker Location: Westbrook, CT | Full Time Company Overview ... The Lee Company is a global leader in the design and production of miniature, precision fluid ...

Haas F1 Team

Junior Model Maker

Independence, KY

Liaise with the design department to report issues and contribute to improving the assembly process ... Category B driving license. Brief experience as a model maker in motorsport or high-tech workshops ...

zahgroup

Industrial Design Intern

Mansfield, TX · On-site

Under supervision of Industrial Design Manager or Senior level designer(s), the Industrial Designer ... Creating visual representations of design ideas through sketching or using 3D modeling tool. 4. ...

Flex Ltd.

Tool & Model Maker

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$26.61 - $36.59/hr

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design ... The Tool & Model Maker will be based in Buffalo Grove IL, reporting to Tooling Manager is ...

Daikin

Model Maker 1

Waller, TX

The Model Maker 1 responsibilities include but are not limited to fabricating prototypes parts from ... Support building prototype and developmental units for testing and for fit and function of design.

Haas F1 Team

Junior Model Maker

Independence, KY · On-site

... the design department to report issues and contribute to improving the assembly process • ... model maker in motorsport or high-tech workshops, with a strong motivation to learn and grow ...

Globusmedical

Sr Model Maker, 2nd Shift

Audubon, PA · On-site

This includes bringing a product from idea/concept through design, prototyping, development, testing, design verification and validation, manufacturing, and product introduction. The Model Maker will ...

Globusmedical

CNC Model Maker, 2nd shift

Audubon, PA

$15 - $20.25/hr

This includes bringing a product from idea/concept through design, prototyping, development, testing, design verification and validation, manufacturing, and product introduction. The Model Maker will ...

Daikin

Model Maker 1

Waller, TX · On-site

The Model Maker 1 responsibilities include but are not limited to fabricating prototypes parts from ... Support building prototype and developmental units for testing and for fit and function of design.

Flex

Tool & Model Maker

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$26.61 - $36.59/hr

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design ... The Tool & Model Maker will be based in Buffalo Grove IL, reporting to Tooling Manager is ...

52Launch

Industrial Design Intern

Framingham, MA · On-site

$15/hr

Industrial Design Intern Department: Design Reports to: Head of Design Employment type: Intern, Non ... Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering software (SolidWorks/Rhino and KeyShot). * Strong ...

Klein Tools

Industrial Design Intern

Mansfield, TX · On-site

Under supervision of Industrial Design Manager or Senior level designer(s), the Industrial Designer ... Creating visual representations of design ideas through sketching or using 3D modeling tool. 4. ...

Globus Medical

CNC Model Maker, 2nd Shift

Audubon, PA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

This includes bringing a product from idea/concept through design, prototyping, development, testing, design verification and validation, manufacturing, and product introduction. The Model Maker will ...

Globusmedical

CNC Model Maker, 2nd Shift

Audubon, PA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

This includes bringing a product from idea/concept through design, prototyping, development, testing, design verification and validation, manufacturing, and product introduction. The Model Maker will ...

Gotion, Inc.

Industrial Design Engineer

Manteno, IL

You use appropriate and effective visual design skills, such as sketching/modeling/prototyping to ... Bachelor or Master Degree in product or industrial design * 1-4 years' relevant experience in one ...

Globus Medical

CNC Model Maker, 2nd Shift

Audubon, PA · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

This includes bringing a product from idea/concept through design, prototyping, development, testing, design verification and validation, manufacturing, and product introduction. The Model Maker will ...

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Industrial Design Model Maker information

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$10

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$32

How much do industrial design model maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for industrial design model maker in the United States is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an industrial design model maker do?

An Industrial Design Model Maker creates physical prototypes and models based on product designs, allowing designers and engineers to visualize, test, and refine their ideas before mass production. They use a variety of materials, such as plastics, wood, and metals, as well as both traditional hand tools and modern technologies like 3D printing and CNC machines. Their work is essential for evaluating aesthetics, functionality, and ergonomics of new products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an industrial design model maker?

To thrive as an Industrial Design Model Maker, you need strong skills in manual fabrication, prototyping, and an understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, often supported by a relevant technical degree or certificate. Proficiency with CAD software, 3D printing, CNC machinery, and hand tools is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting design concepts and collaborating with design teams. These abilities ensure accurate, high-quality models that effectively convey product ideas and support the design process.

What are some common challenges faced by industrial design model makers, and how can they be overcome?

Industrial Design Model Makers often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, the need for precise craftsmanship, and adapting to rapidly changing design specifications. To overcome these issues, model makers benefit from strong time management skills, a keen attention to detail, and effective communication with designers and engineers. Staying current with new materials, tools, and prototyping technologies also helps address these challenges and ensures high-quality results that meet client expectations.

What is the difference between Industrial Design Model Maker vs Product Designer?

AspectIndustrial Design Model MakerProduct Designer
CredentialsTechnical skills, craftsmanship, sometimes certifications in model makingDesign education, portfolio, sometimes certifications in UX/UI or industrial design
Work EnvironmentWorkshops, manufacturing facilities, studiosDesign studios, corporate offices, collaborative teams
Industry UsagePrototyping, physical model creation for presentationsConcept development, user experience, visual design

While both roles involve design, an Industrial Design Model Maker specializes in creating physical prototypes and models to visualize products, often working in workshops. A Product Designer focuses on the overall product concept, user experience, and visual aesthetics, typically working in design studios or corporate environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and employer expectations in the industrial design industry.

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What job categories do people searching Industrial Design Model Maker jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Industrial Design Model Maker jobs are:

Industrial Design Model Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Industrial Design Model Maker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,318 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Prototyper / Modelmaker - Freelance

RKS Design, Inc.

Thousand Oaks, CA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


About Us:
RKS has been at the forefront of Industrial Design in the United States for the last 40 years. We have crafted a reputation for our complete product design and development service; bringing innovation that enhances everyday lives across all market sectors, from sporting goods to dental devices, from wearables to household appliances. Our approach puts innovation, engineering, and user experience at the center of our process, creating ground-breaking products that users bond with and clients keep coming back for.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a talented and detail-oriented Prototype Model maker to join our team on a freelance basis. This is a hands-on role for a crafts person who takes pride in building high-quality physical models that bring design concepts to life. The ideal candidate is comfortable in the shop, highly skilled with tools and materials, and able to translate digital designs and sketches into precise, professional prototypes.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Build physical models and appearance prototypes with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
  • Work with a wide range of materials, including plastics, wood, foam, and metal, using both hand tools and power tools.
  • Interpret sketches, CAD drawings, and design intent to create accurate mock-ups and refined presentation models.
  • Apply finishing techniques such as sanding, painting, and polishing to deliver professional-quality results.
  • Collaborate closely with designers and engineers to problem-solve and refine prototypes quickly.
  • Recommend fabrication approaches and materials that best represent design intent within project timelines.
  • Maintain a safe, organized, and well-equipped workshop.
  • Assist in the creative exploration process by rapidly fabricating mock-ups and testing ideas.

Qualifications:
  • Proven experience in modelmaking, prototyping, or related fabrication fields.
  • Strong hands-on skills with woodworking, machining, sculpting, and finishing.
  • Proficiency with shop equipment such as table saws, drill presses, sanders, and hand tools.
  • Familiarity with 3D printing and basic digital fabrication methods is a plus but not required.
  • Excellent eye for detail, precision, and finish quality.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings and translate them into accurate prototypes.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in fast-paced project environments.
  • Team player with effective communication and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining quality standards.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in a design consultancy, model shop, or industrial design environment.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Proven experience in modelmaking, prototyping, or related fabrication fields.
  • Strong hands-on skills with woodworking, machining, sculpting, and finishing.
  • Proficiency with shop equipment such as table saws, drill presses, sanders, and hand tools.
  • Familiarity with 3D printing and basic digital fabrication methods is a plus but not required.
  • Excellent eye for detail, precision, and finish quality.
  • Ability to interpret technical drawings and translate them into accurate prototypes.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in fast-paced project environments.
  • Team player with effective communication and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining quality standards.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in a design consultancy, model shop, or industrial design environment.

Benefits
none

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