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Junior Model Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

SeniorTooling Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA

$27 - $34/hr

As a Tool Maker at Anduril, you will be responsible for precision fabrication, repair, and ... You'll work from 2D Drawings, model-based definition (MBD) data, and GD&T to build tooling to tight ...

medplast

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

... and mentoring junior team members. You will also operate a wide range of tool room equipment ... Interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings. * Troubleshoot mold performance ...

medplast

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

... and mentoring junior team members. You will also operate a wide range of tool room equipment ... Interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings. * Troubleshoot mold performance ...

medplast

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

... and mentoring junior team members. You will also operate a wide range of tool room equipment ... Interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings. * Troubleshoot mold performance ...

Viant

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

... and mentoring junior team members. You will also operate a wide range of tool room equipment ... Interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings. * Troubleshoot mold performance ...

ANDURIL INDUSTRIES

SeniorTooling Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

As a Tool Maker at Anduril, you will be responsible for precision fabrication, repair, and ... You'll work from 2D Drawings, model-based definition (MBD) data, and GD&T to build tooling to tight ...

Anduril Industries

SeniorTooling Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$129K - $171K/yr

As a Tool Maker at Anduril, you will be responsible for precision fabrication, repair, and ... You'll work from 2D Drawings, model-based definition (MBD) data, and GD&T to build tooling to tight ...

Onto

Principal Systems Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

Serve as the technical lead and decision-maker for system-level design reviews. Requirements ... Mentor junior engineers and influence technical direction across the organization. Program ...

Onto

Principal Systems Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

Serve as the technical lead and decision-maker for system-level design reviews. Requirements ... Mentor junior engineers and influence technical direction across the organization. Program ...

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Junior Model Maker information

What is a junior model maker?

Junior Model Makers are entry-level professionals who assist in creating physical or digital models used for design, architecture, film, engineering, and product development. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced model makers, helping to construct prototypes, scale models, or mock-ups using various materials and tools. Their responsibilities often include interpreting technical drawings, using hand and power tools, and sometimes employing computer-aided design (CAD) software. Junior Model Makers learn essential skills on the job and gradually take on more complex tasks as they gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior model maker?

To thrive as a Junior Model Maker, you need foundational skills in model construction, attention to detail, and a relevant qualification such as a certificate or associate degree in model making, industrial design, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like CAD software, 3D printers, hand tools, and materials such as plastics and wood is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help you collaborate with design teams and adapt to project changes. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate, high-quality models that effectively support product development and visualization.

What are some common challenges faced by junior model makers during their first year on the job?

Junior Model Makers often encounter challenges such as adapting to precise fabrication standards, learning to interpret complex design blueprints, and managing time effectively to meet tight deadlines. They may also need to quickly become proficient with tools and materials specific to their industry, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, or specialized hand tools. Collaboration with senior model makers and designers is essential, and developing strong communication skills helps ensure that models accurately reflect project requirements. Over time, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that lay the foundation for career growth.

What is the difference between Junior Model Maker vs Model Maker?

AspectJunior Model MakerModel Maker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingTechnical training or apprenticeship; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level workshops, supervised settingsAdvanced workshops, independent projects
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in model creation, learning techniquesDesigning, building, and finishing detailed models
Industry UsageUsed in film, architecture, and manufacturing sectorsUsed in similar sectors with more complex projects

The main difference between a Junior Model Maker and a Model Maker lies in experience and responsibility. Junior Model Makers are typically entry-level, focusing on learning and assisting, while Model Makers are more experienced, handling complex projects independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Model Maker jobs in California?

The most popular types of Model Maker jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Model Maker jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Model Maker job openings:

Junior Model Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Model Maker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

SeniorTooling Fabricator

Anduril Industries

Santa Ana, CA

$27 - $34/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,990 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

As a Tool Maker at Anduril, you will be responsible for precision fabrication, repair, and modification of jigs, fixtures, dies, molds, gauges, etc., with a focus on production tooling that supports advanced manufacturing operations for Maritime Operations. 

You'll work from 2D Drawings, model-based definition (MBD) data, and GD&T to build tooling to tight tolerancing, while partnering directly with engineers, welders, and machinists to get critical tooling into the hands of production fast. This role may also lead and cross-train less experienced Tool Makers.

What You'll Do
  • Lay out, fabricate, assemble, and repair jigs, fixtures, forms, templates, molds, dies, and related tooling per blueprints, MBD models, sketches, and specifications
  • Set up and operate manual and/or CNC lathes, mills, surface grinders, brakes, and punch presses to cut, shape, and finish tooling components to specified dimensions
  • Work with a range of materials including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, tool steels, and Off-the-Shelf Hardware
  • Apply and interpret GD&T (per ASME Y14.5) from engineering drawings and CAD/MBD data
  • Use precision measuring and metrology equipment such as micrometers, calipers, laser trackers (LEICA, FARO), etc., to verify dimensional accuracy and troubleshoot out-of-tolerance conditions
  • Break down and prepare tool designs for fabrication, assembly, & inspection. 
  • Setup and fabricate welding/assembly fixture tooling from rough structure; coordinate with welders and other tooling fabricators as needed.  
  • Safely operate, forklifts, and other shop lifting equipment to move and position tooling and materials
  • Diagnose and correct tooling issues in production, recommending design or process improvements and documenting changes
  • Maintain tooling documentation, spare parts lists, and job hour tracking
  • Lead and cross-train junior Tool Makers; assign and check work as needed
  • Maintain a clean, safe work area in compliance with safety, quality, and PPE requirements
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment building or maintaining tooling (jigs, fixtures, dies)
  • 5+ years of experience setting up and operating lathes, mills, and surface grinders
  • 5+ years of experience with precision inspection equipment (micrometers, calipers, Laser Tracker, etc.)
  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret 2D Drawings, GD&T, and engineering specifications
  • Ability to complete tooling builds start-to-finish with little to no assistance, and to write build instructions for other shop personnel
  • Strong communication with salaried and hourly personnel
  • Ability to lift, push, and pull up to 35 lbs frequently within an 8-hour shift
  • Must qualify as a "U.S. Person" under ITAR/Export Control regulations (U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree or technical certificate in machining, tool & die, or mechanical technology
  • CNC machining experience
  • Welding certification and ability to fabricate/repair tooling via FCAW, GMAW, or GTAW
  • Electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic troubleshooting skills
  • Crane and forklift operation experience
  • Experience leading or cross-training junior fabrication/toolmaking staff
  • Ability to work varied shifts, overtime, and weekends as demands require

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.

What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media

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