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Miniature Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... miniature electro-mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high-g, high temperature ... The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept ...

... miniature electro-mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high-g, high temperature ... The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept ...

Stay up to date on emerging materials, methods, and technologies in miniature antenna design. * Travel to support prototype builds in both Asia, Europe, and North America: ~15-20% of time yearly ...

Sr. Electromagnetic Design Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$114K - $156K/yr

You will lead the design of next generation miniaturized motors and resolvers that will power and control guidance applications ranging from the nation's largest ballistic missiles to miniature ...

Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

PA · On-site

$97K - $143K/yr

The Lead Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the creative design and development of Residential Miniature Circuit Breakers. This position will lead and contribute to the overall mechanical ...

You will lead the design of next generation miniaturized motors and resolvers that will power and control guidance applications ranging from the nation's largest ballistic missiles to miniature ...

... miniature electro-mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high-g, high temperature ... The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept ...

... miniature electro-mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high-g, high temperature ... The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept ...

Sets Painter

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Read and interpret design specifications and color palettes. * Paint and finish set props and miniature models to achieve desired effects. * Mix paints and create custom colors as needed. * Apply ...

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Miniature Design information

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$13

$48

$70

How much do miniature design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for miniature design in the United States is $48.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.14 and $59.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Miniature Designer, you need a strong background in art or design, proficiency in sculpting, painting, and model construction, often supported by a degree in fine arts or related experience. Familiarity with digital sculpting software (like ZBrush), 3D printing, and traditional modeling tools is commonly required. Attention to detail, creativity, and excellent time management are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the creation of high-quality, visually appealing miniatures that meet client specifications and production deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced by miniature designers when working on collaborative projects?

Miniature designers often collaborate closely with concept artists, engineers, and model makers, which can present challenges such as aligning creative visions and ensuring technical feasibility. Balancing artistic detail with production constraints, like material limitations or scale requirements, is also a frequent concern. Clear communication and adaptability are essential, as feedback from multiple stakeholders may require rapid adjustments to designs. Successfully navigating these challenges can lead to higher-quality miniatures and stronger professional relationships within the team.

What is the difference between Miniature Design vs Model Maker?

AspectMiniature DesignModel Maker
CredentialsDesign skills, CAD proficiency, artistic abilityTechnical skills, craftsmanship, sometimes CAD knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, creative agencies, gaming companiesWorkshops, studios, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageGaming, film, collectibles, architecturePrototyping, custom models, scale replicas

Miniature Design focuses on creating detailed visual concepts and digital models for various industries, emphasizing artistic and technical design skills. Model Makers, on the other hand, build physical models based on designs, requiring craftsmanship and hands-on skills. While both roles often collaborate, Miniature Designers primarily work in digital environments, whereas Model Makers produce tangible objects. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the miniature industry.

What is miniature design?

Miniature design is the art and craft of creating small-scale models or replicas of objects, scenes, or characters, often for use in tabletop games, dioramas, film, or architectural presentations. Miniature designers use a variety of materials such as plastic, resin, metal, or clay to sculpt and paint detailed miniatures. This field requires a keen eye for detail, creativity, and a steady hand. Miniature design is popular among hobbyists and professionals alike, and can range from fantasy figurines to realistic architectural models.
Infographic showing various Miniature Design job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,773 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Draper

Odon, IN • On-site

$82K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview:
Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.
Job Description Summary:
Draper Mechanical Engineers develop novel solutions to customer driven problems including ruggedized miniature electro-mechanical systems, systems for harsh environments (e.g. high-g, high temperature, high vibration), dynamic mechanisms, and autonomous systems. The mechanical design team is responsible for the full cycle of mechanical design from concept exploration of multiple potential solutions through trade study analysis, down-selection, prototyping and testing, and finally delivery. The Mechanical design engineers work to solve some of our nation's most challenging problems.
Draper's Odon, Indiana facility is located in the Westgate@Crane Technology Park adjacent to Crane NSWC. This technology hub focuses on the development and production of critical microelectronics. The office is a short commute from Bloomington, IN, a vibrant community with excellent schools, parks, restaurants, outdoor activities, and home to Indiana University.
Job Description:
Duties/Responsibilities
• Performs mechanical design concept exploration, trade study analysis, down-selection, prototyping, and testing with some guidance.
• Drive solutions to complex problems with limited direction - contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements
• Plan and execute complex electro-mechanical design from the ideation stage through hardware fabrication and testing, including trade study, concept down select, and detailed design phases
• Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them
• Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
• Curiosity-driven approach to solving complex, customer-driven problems as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively and openly with multi-disciplinary program team members, program leadership, and non-technical personnel.
• Team player able to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to balance multiple competing tasks and demands.
• Thorough understanding of applied math and physics.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with general modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and/or other design & analysis tools relevant to your discipline.
Education
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant field. Master's degree is preferred.
Experience
Requires 5-10 years in mechanical engineering or full cycle of mechanical design experience.
Additional Job Description:
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proficient with Computer Aided Design (CAD) for hardware and assemblies (Creo preferred.)
  • Familiar with:
  • Mechanical design of electronic enclosures, circuit boards, and microelectronic component packaging.
  • General modeling and simulation tools such as MATLAB and ANSYS.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Applications.

Clearance & Travel:
  • Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Strong preference will be given to candidates holding an active Secret level clearance or higher or to those who have held an active clearance within the past 2 years.
  • Occasional travel to Draper's main campus in Cambridge, MA, partner sites, suppliers, and test facilities is required, less than 15% expected.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.
Job Location - City:
Odon
Job Location - State:
Indiana
Job Location - Postal Code:
47562
The US base salary range for this full-time position is
$82,300.00 - $220,000.00
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.
Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.
Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.