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Model Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Model Maker I

Ada, MI · On-site

$30.42 - $37.58/hr

Model Maker I Department / Division: Rapid Prototyping / Research & Development (4001) Salary Range: $30.42/hr - $37.58/hr plus bonus Location: Ada, MI (Onsite) What we're looking for: Are you ready ...

Model Maker

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$53K - $106K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a hands-on Model Maker to support HVAC engineering development through the fabrication, modification, and testing of prototype equipment. This position plays a critical ...

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 control components for the ...

The Model Shop team supports the development of innovative toy concepts and product experiences by creating high-quality physical models, prototypes, and presentation materials. The team partners ...

The Model Shop team supports the development of innovative toy concepts and product experiences by creating high-quality physical models, prototypes, and presentation materials. The team partners ...

The Model Shop team supports the development of innovative toy concepts and product experiences by creating high-quality physical models, prototypes, and presentation materials. The team partners ...

Perform a wide variety of mechanical, welding, machine, and fabrication work required in the repair, modification, and development of complex production equipment. Improvise, develop, machine and/or ...

About the Role We are seeking a hands-on Model Maker to support HVAC engineering development through the fabrication, modification, and testing of prototype equipment. This position plays a critical ...

Model Maker

Liverpool, NY · On-site

$37.30 - $40.44/hr

Perform a wide variety of mechanical, welding, machine, and fabrication work required in the repair, modification, and development of complex production equipment. Improvise, develop, machine and/or ...

Perform a wide variety of mechanical, welding, machine, and fabrication work required in the repair, modification, and development of complex production equipment. Improvise, develop, machine and/or ...

Model Maker Machinist V- 2nd Shift Reporting To: Leader, Performance Work Schedule: Onsite - Buffalo, NY Moog is the world-wide leader of advanced flight controls and actuation for commercial and ...

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How much do model maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for model maker in the United States is $31.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $39.18 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 job?

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.

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.

More about Model Maker jobs
What cities are hiring for Model Maker jobs? Cities with the most Model Maker job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Model Maker jobs? The most popular types of Model Maker jobs are:
What states have the most Model Maker jobs? States with the most job openings for Model Maker jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Model Maker jobs? For Model Maker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Model Maker job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,246 per year, or $31.4 per hour.
Model Maker I

$30.42 - $37.58/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Job title: Model Maker I  

Department / Division: Rapid Prototyping / Research & Development (4001) 

Salary Range: $30.42/hr - $37.58/hr plus bonus  

Location:  Ada, MI (Onsite) 

 

What we're looking for: 

Are you ready to get your hands dirty (in the best way possible) and bring groundbreaking designs to life?  Our rapid prototyping team is on the lookout for an exceptional model maker to join our passionate group of innovators.  If you’re a wizard with materials, a perfectionist with precision and excited by seeing ideas come to life, then this is your chance to make a real impact and help us build the next generation of products one meticulously crafted model at a time.

This is a highly collaborative role where your work will change daily. You will manage our state-of-the-art 3D printing equipment, ensuring it's ready from both a material and mechanical perspective. You’ll partner with engineers and designers, using your free-hand sketching skills to visualize solutions and develop plans to rapidly deliver finely crafted prototypes.

A typical day may include:

  • Mixing a blend of SLS powder to prepare for future print jobs.
  • Removing a completed 3D print and setting up the equipment for the next request.
  • Finishing a prototype, including surface preparation and painting to a high-quality class “A” finish.
  • Performing preventative maintenance on a printer or scheduling a vendor for service.
  • Using our well-stocked model studio to machine parts for a functional test.

This is a full-time, on-site role at our Ada, Michigan campus. Travel is minimal, estimated at less than 10%.

Required Qualifications:

  • Associate's degree in Prototype and Design (or a related field) with 0-2 years of experience; OR a relevant technical certification with 2-4 years of professional model-making experience.
  • Expertise with 3D printing, either professionally or as a hobby.
  • Ability to read and understand technical drawings and plans.
  • Experience using a wide range of hand tools, power tools, and machine tools to build prototypes.
  • Proven ability to produce parts with high precision, including to tolerances of .001 of an inch.
  • Experience building prototypes using a variety of materials (e.g., metals, wood, plastics, clay, resin, fiberglass, silicone, urethanes).

Skills to Be Successful in the Role:

  • A collaborative spirit with strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Excellent 3D visualization ability and mechanical aptitude.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to help visualize and build new prototypes.
  • A meticulous approach with high attention to detail.
  • Adaptability to changing project requirements and timelines.
  • Demonstrated ability to operate safely in a machine tool environment.
  • (Preferred) Skill in painting to a "Class A" automotive-quality finish.

What's Special About this Team: 

If you chased a career, to invent, improve, and drive product innovation, this team of creative engineers lives and breathes this every day.  We are a work hard, play hard team, that bridges the gap between vision and reality by transforming ideas into tangible solutions with speed, precision and purpose.  We partner with our Nutrition, Beauty and Healthy Home counterparts to deliver prototypes to enable them to test ideas, drive alignment and build go to market assets.