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Model Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SMP Engineering

Mold Maker

Glendale, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Mold Maker (Injection Molding) Industry: Aerospace & Defense Employment Type: Full-Time Location ... Interpret and work from detailed engineering drawings, CAD models, and specifications. * Perform ...

Integr8staff

Tool & Die Maker

Brea, CA · On-site

$38 - $39/hr

Job Title - Tool & Die Maker Location - Near Fullerton, CA Full Time, 100% On-site (temp to hire ... Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, technical drawings, and models. Design, fabricate new ...

Applied Medical

Mold Maker

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

$25 - $40/hr

Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products ... The mold maker directs machining and support teams through complex workflows, enabling smooth ...

Applied Medical

Mold Maker

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products ... The mold maker directs machining and support teams through complex workflows, enabling smooth ...

Applied Medical

Mold Maker

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products ... The mold maker directs machining and support teams through complex workflows, enabling smooth ...

Serra Manufacturing Corporation

DIE MAKER

Compton, CA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Study and build prototype pieces, die models, and templates based on customer applications ... Requirements= The position requires four years of experience as a tool and die maker or related ...

Studex

Plastic Injection Mold Maker

Harbor City, CA · On-site

$17.81 - $25/hr

... Maker". Essential Functions: Design/Build/Repair tooling including molds, fixtures, jigs, and ... Work with prints, sketches, electronic drawings, solid models, and/ or verbal instructions. * Keep ...

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How much do model maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for model maker in California is $30.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $38.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of projects do model makers typically work on?

Model Makers are involved in a variety of projects ranging from architectural scale models and industrial prototypes to product concept models for consumer goods. Depending on the industry, you may create models to support design presentations, engineering validation, or marketing efforts. Collaboration with engineers, designers, and project managers is often required to ensure models meet functional and aesthetic requirements. The work environment is usually a combination of workshop and office settings, and project scopes can vary widely, offering fresh challenges and learning opportunities. This diversity allows Model Makers to continually develop their craft and expertise across multiple sectors.

What is a model maker?

A Model Maker is a professional who creates physical or digital models used for prototypes, design testing, and product development. They work with various materials, such as wood, plastic, or metal, and use tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and hand tools. Model Makers are commonly employed in industries like manufacturing, architecture, film, and aerospace. Their work helps engineers, designers, and clients visualize and refine concepts before full-scale production.

How much do model makers make?

Model makers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Skilled model makers with advanced techniques or specialized tools may earn higher salaries, especially in industries like film, architecture, or manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the model maker position, and why are they important?

Model Makers need strong skills in handcrafting, precise measurement, and interpreting technical drawings, often supported by a background in industrial design, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printers, CNC machines, and other prototyping tools is highly valued, and certifications in these technologies can be advantageous. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong problem-solving abilities are important soft skills for excelling in this position. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate, high-quality models that support design, engineering, and manufacturing projects.

How do you become a model maker?

To become a model maker, individuals typically pursue a relevant education such as a degree or certification in industrial design, sculpture, or engineering. Gaining hands-on experience with tools like CAD software, woodworking, and sculpting, along with building a strong portfolio, is essential for entry into the field.
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Model Maker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Model Maker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,391 per year, or $31 per hour.

Sr. Prototype Model Fabricator

ANDURIL INDUSTRIES

Costa Mesa, CA

$49.04/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 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 75,163 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
ABOUT THE TEAM
The Model Shop is a new in-house capability that partners with Design, Engineering, and business stakeholders to turn digital concepts into full-scale, presentation-quality physical models. These models help teams communicate design intent, evaluate physical form, and showcase Anduril products to customers and other stakeholders. By bringing this capability in house, the team will improve speed, iteration, craftsmanship, and control while reducing significant reliance on external vendors.
ABOUT THE JOB
We are looking for a Prototype Model Fabricatorto join our rapidly growing team in Costa Mesa, Ca. In this role you will be part of the Model Shop team, building scale physical design and aerodynamic models utilizing a wide range of model making disciplines.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Build scale physical design models utilizing a wide range of model-making techniques (i.e., metal, plastic, composite fabrication, woodworking, surface, and paint).
  • Execute final surface prepping, hand-sanding, bonding, and priming to ensure a flawless finish.
  • Read and interpret design blueprints and technical drawings.
  • Collaborate with designers, engineers, and fellow fabricators.
  • Utilize and help maintain shop machinery and equipment.
  • Monitor and report shop consumables inventory needs.
  • Maintain strict accuracy and quality standards.
  • Participate in team meetings to improve workflow and efficiency.
  • Keep the shop organized, clean, and safe.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 10+ years experience in physical model builds
  • Ability to operate machining, fabrication, wood working equipment (manual mill/lathe, bench grinders, variety of saws, shears, etc.)
  • Sheet metal fabrication experience (using press brakes, finger brakes, slip rollers, bead rollers, and other forming equipment)
  • Welding (GMAW/FCAW/GTAW) of steel, stainless, and aluminum with 5+ years experience
  • Ability to work through Model Making tasks with limited oversight (evaluate, design, order materials, execute)
  • Ability to fit, surface and paint high quality physical models
  • High level of mechanical aptitude (aerospace/automotive/motorsports background)
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in workmanship
  • Advanced knowledge of engineering design and model making procedures
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work overtime and weekends
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, flexible team environment
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • CAD experience
  • Additive Manufacturing experience

US Hourly Range
$37.02-$49.04 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

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

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