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Model Shop Manager Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Model Shop Manager information

See Wisconsin salary details

$31.8K

$65.9K

$99.4K

How much do model shop manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for model shop manager in Wisconsin is $65,881.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $80,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a model shop manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Model Shop Manager, you need strong project management abilities, hands-on experience in model making, and often a degree in industrial design, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D printers, CNC machines, and safety protocols is commonly required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating teams and liaising with clients. These skills ensure efficient workflow, high-quality prototype delivery, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a model shop manager, and how can they be addressed?

A Model Shop Manager often faces challenges related to balancing tight project deadlines with high-quality craftsmanship, coordinating diverse teams of model makers, and ensuring the shop is well-equipped and organized. Effective communication with designers and engineers is crucial to clarify project requirements and manage expectations. Implementing efficient workflow processes, regularly maintaining equipment, and fostering a collaborative team environment can help address these challenges and ensure successful project delivery.

What is a model shop manager?

A Model Shop Manager is responsible for overseeing the operations of a workshop where models, prototypes, or mock-ups are constructed for design, engineering, or architectural purposes. They manage staff, coordinate project schedules, procure materials, and ensure safety standards are maintained. Model Shop Managers often work closely with designers and engineers to bring concepts to life and ensure high-quality craftsmanship. Their role also includes maintaining equipment and managing the shop’s budget and workflow.

What is the difference between Model Shop Manager vs Model Maker?

AspectModel Shop ManagerModel Maker
CredentialsExperience in shop management, technical skills, possibly certifications in CAD or manufacturingTechnical skills in model making, craftsmanship, possibly certifications in design or fabrication
Work EnvironmentOversees the shop operations, manages staff, coordinates projectsHands-on creation of models, working with materials like foam, plastic, or metal
Industry UsageUsed in automotive, aerospace, film, and manufacturing sectorsCommonly found in design studios, prototyping, and special effects industries

The Model Shop Manager oversees the entire model shop operations, managing staff and projects, while the Model Maker focuses on the hands-on creation of models. Both roles require technical skills, but the manager's role is more supervisory, whereas the maker's role is more craft-oriented.

What are popular job titles related to Model Shop Manager jobs in Wisconsin? For Model Shop Manager jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Model Shop Manager jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Model Shop Manager jobs in Wisconsin are:
Model Shop Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Model Shop Manager job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,881 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Mold Shop Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Saint Francis, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Title: Mold Shop Manager
Location: St. Francis, WI
Hire Type: Direct-Hire
Compensation: 100-130K
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO
Must have Skill Set:

  • Mold manufacturing leadership experience
  • CNC machining knowledge
  • Tooling and mold shop management
  • Production scheduling and resource planning
  • Engineering drawing interpretation
  • Manufacturing project management
  • Team leadership and continuous improvement

Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Mold Shop Manager to lead daily operations within a custom tooling and mold manufacturing environment. This leadership role is responsible for managing mold manufacturing projects from start to finish while ensuring tooling is completed on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards. The Mold Shop Manager will oversee production scheduling, coordinate machining and assembly resources, develop team members, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and maintain a safe, organized manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate combines strong technical knowledge of CNC machining, tooling, and mold manufacturing with proven leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

Job Duties:

  • Lead and manage daily operations of the mold shop and tooling department.
  • Create and maintain a strong culture of workplace safety.
  • Promote continuous improvement initiatives throughout the manufacturing operation.
  • Oversee mold manufacturing projects to ensure on-time and cost-effective completion.
  • Monitor production schedules and maintain real-time project status for all active tooling projects.
  • Coordinate workload across CNC machining, EDM, grinding, polishing, mold assembly, and finishing operations.
  • Identify production bottlenecks and implement solutions to improve efficiency.
  • Train, mentor, and develop mold makers and shop personnel.
  • Evaluate employee performance and provide coaching and support.
  • Assist with production coverage during employee absences, breaks, or vacations as needed.
  • Maintain high standards of housekeeping and organization throughout the shop.
  • Investigate tooling issues and implement corrective actions to prevent recurring nonconformities.
  • Optimize labor, equipment, and manufacturing resources for maximum productivity.
  • Review mold designs, engineering changes, and customer revisions.
  • Lead mold design reviews and collaborate with engineering teams.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and outside vendors.
  • Evaluate current equipment and recommend future capital equipment investments.
  • Enforce company policies, operating procedures, and safety standards.
  • Support cross-functional teams to ensure successful project execution and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 3 years of leadership or supervisory experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience managing multiple tooling or manufacturing projects simultaneously.
  • Strong knowledge of CNC machining, tooling, and mold manufacturing processes.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and 3D CAD models.
  • Strong organizational, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office and ERP or manufacturing project tracking systems.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) or silicone mold manufacturing.
  • Experience with plastic injection mold design and mold construction.
  • Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
  • CAM programming experience.
  • Hands-on CNC machining experience.
  • Experience with mold assembly, mold qualification, and tooling troubleshooting.


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.