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Model Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

**Jig & Fixture Maker **Location: Placentia, California Are you an experienced Jig & Fixture Maker ... Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to determine required tolerances and ...

**Jig & Fixture Maker **Location: Placentia, California Are you an experienced Jig & Fixture Maker ... Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to determine required tolerances and ...

Jig and Fixture Maker

Placentia, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

**Jig & Fixture Maker **Location: Placentia, California Are you an experienced Jig & Fixture Maker ... Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to determine required tolerances and ...

Tool / Die Maker III Tool / Die Maker III Mason welcomes people who share our determination and ... A., with the Value Stream Manufacturing Engineers Can work from SolidWorks models, program in ...

Tool / Die Maker III

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $33.25/hr

Tool / Die Maker III Tool / Die Maker III Mason welcomes people who share our determination and ... A., with the Value Stream Manufacturing Engineers Can work from SolidWorks models, program in ...

Showing results 41-60

Model Maker information

See California salary details

$10

$30

$66

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.
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 job categories do people searching Model Maker jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Model Maker jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Model Maker jobs? Cities in California with the most Model Maker job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Model Maker jobs in CA? For Model Maker jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.

Jig and Fixture Maker

RPS Recruitment

Placentia, CA

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

**Jig & Fixture Maker

**Location: Placentia, California

Are you an experienced Jig & Fixture Maker looking to apply your precision skills within the aerospace sector? Do you take pride in building tooling that supports high quality manufacturing standards? Are you ready to join a company known for stability and long term growth? If so, this opportunity may be the right next step for you.

Our client, is a leading designer and manufacturer of aircraft latches and latching systems. With over 80 years of aerospace heritage, they supply high performance components across commercial, military, and space programmes. Their strong reputation and sustained growth create genuine opportunities for progression and long term career development.

This Jig & Fixture Maker position offers the chance to work within a collaborative culture where employees are encouraged to grow and develop. You will benefit from long term stability built over decades of aerospace service, alongside competitive compensation, benefits, and paid vacation.

In this Jig & Fixture Maker role, you will design, build, maintain, and repair precision tooling that supports production and inspection processes. You will work closely with engineering and production teams to ensure tooling accuracy, reliability, and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.

**As the Jig & Fixture Maker your responsibilities will include

**

• Design and build jigs, fixtures, and tooling to support production and inspection activities• Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD models to determine required tolerances and specifications• Operate manual and CNC machinery including mills, lathes, grinders, and drill presses• Maintain, repair, and modify existing tooling to ensure continued performance and reliability• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve tooling functionality and manufacturing efficiency

**As the Jig & Fixture Maker you will bring

**

• A minimum of five years of experience as a jig and fixture maker, toolmaker, or machinist• Strong knowledge of machining practices, tool design, and fabrication techniques• Proven ability to read and interpret GD and T and complex engineering drawings• Experience using precision measuring instruments including micrometers and calipers• Strong problem solving ability with the confidence to identify and resolve machining challenges

This Jig & Fixture Maker opportunity is ideal for professionals who value precision work and want to contribute to high performance aerospace manufacturing. The Jig & Fixture Maker will play an important role in supporting operational efficiency and maintaining quality standards within a well established organisation.

All successful applicants will be contacted within two working days.