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Model Shop Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making prototypes and models and in the daily upkeep and organization of the model shop. This can include ...

Prototype Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The prototype technician is responsible for supporting the model maker in all aspects of making prototypes and models and in the daily upkeep and organization of the model shop. This can include ...

Model Shop Manager / Supervisor. The Company provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of a person's race, color, religion (including religious dress or ...

Prototype Designer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$21 - $25.50/hr

This position also includes coordinating the maintenance of the shop equipment, material inventories, and orderliness of the model shop . Essential Duties and Responsibilit ies: The following duties ...

Model Shop Manager / Supervisor. The Company provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of a person's race, color, religion (including religious dress or ...

Model Shop Manager / Supervisor. The Company provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of a person's race, color, religion (including religious dress or ...

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 ...

Knowledge of shop tools and equipment is required * Ability to work in a team environment * Must ... Build/Fabricate scale models and displays based on drawings and/or photos * Composite lamination ...

Model Fabricator

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Knowledge of shop tools and equipment is required * Ability to work in a team environment * Must ... Build/Fabricate scale models and displays based on drawings and/or photos * Composite lamination ...

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Model Shop information

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$10

$31

$67

How much do model shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for model shop 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Model Shop Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Model Shop Technician, you need strong skills in fabrication, prototyping, and technical drawing, often supported by experience in industrial design or engineering. Familiarity with tools such as CNC machines, 3D printers, and CAD software is typically required, along with safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure high-quality prototype production, efficient workflow, and successful collaboration on complex design projects.

What is a model shop?

A model shop is a specialized workspace where physical models are designed, constructed, and finished, often for industries like architecture, film, engineering, or product design. Model shops are equipped with tools and materials for fabricating prototypes, scale models, or mock-ups, allowing designers and engineers to visualize and test concepts before final production. Staffed by skilled technicians or model makers, these shops play a crucial role in turning digital or conceptual designs into tangible representations.

What is the difference between Model Shop vs Machinist?

AspectModel ShopMachinist
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in model making or related fieldsRequires technical training, often a machining certificate or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentDesign and build scale models, prototypes, or detailed parts in a workshop settingOperate machines to produce metal or plastic parts, often in manufacturing or industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed in film, architecture, aerospace, and product design industriesCommon in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors

The main difference between a Model Shop and a Machinist lies in their focus and work environment. Model Shops primarily create detailed models and prototypes, often requiring design skills, while Machinists operate machinery to produce precise parts for various industries. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but serve different purposes within manufacturing and design fields.

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

Professionals in a model shop often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, the need for precise craftsmanship, and adapting to last-minute design changes. Effective communication with designers and engineers is crucial to ensure models accurately reflect design intent. Staying organized and maintaining a well-stocked inventory of materials can help mitigate delays. Additionally, continual skill development in new fabrication technologies and materials allows model shop staff to meet evolving project needs.
More about Model Shop jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Model Shop jobs? The most popular types of Model Shop jobs are:
What states have the most Model Shop jobs? States with the most job openings for Model Shop jobs include:
Infographic showing various Model Shop job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,246 per year, or $31.4 per hour.
Tool Maker/Model Maker

$13.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

JOB POSTING
JOB TITLE: Tool Maker/Model Maker
DEPARTMENT: Model Shop
REPORTS TO: Model Shop Manager
PURPOSE OF POSITION:
The position is responsible for planning the total process required to produce the one off manufacture of prototype parts, including designing temporary fixtures and work holding.
Be able to program offline, using Mastercam X and above versions of software. Produce CAM programs for multi-axis milling, multi-plane machining, and surface machining.
Have good working knowledge of materials, cutting tools and required speeds and feeds.
Able to setup and proof programs. Be responsible for the inspection of his product and troubleshooting of problems in assembly or as a result of testing. Must be able to organize the manufacture of multiple part revisions throughout the development.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Five plus years' experience producing components on CNC machine tools.
  • Qualified Individual with 5 plus years' experience preferred.
  • CAD CAM CNC machining and programming capability.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must have excellent math skills including: Basic Mathematics, Plane Geometry and Trigonometry.

DESCRIPTION OF JOB DUTIES:
  • Set up and operation of all CNC or conventional machines tools and grinding equipment in the Model Shop.
  • Able to read drawings and interpret geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
  • Detect errors or irregularities and make corrections and ensure an audit trail for all changes in programs and designs as well as recalculating designs as needed.
  • Display a working knowledge of drawings to ANSI-Y-14.5 format-up to and including Level III.
  • Show a willingness to work safely, carefully and diligently on every task assigned.

Knight Enterprises Management, L.L.C. is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, ancestry, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other protected factor by country, regional or local law. Knight's policies regarding recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, promotions, transfers, training and all other personnel matters are free from discriminatory practices and are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities.
To view the U.S. Department of Labor's (DOL) Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law poster, please go to the following link: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf

Knights Armament logo

About Knights Armament

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Over 30 years ago, the US Government required clip-on weapon sight solutions that would meet the expectations of military users in fielded conditions. C. Reed Knight, Jr. had already established Knight’s Armament Company (KAC) as a leader in research, development and rapid fielding of complex requirements for the special operations community. In the early 1990’s, the Army’s Test Lab NVESD and JSOC approached KAC requesting an interim solution while Army’s Integrated Night Operations Devices (INOD) systems were perfected. The INOD concept ultimately culminated in weapon sight technology.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Titusville, FL, US

Year founded

1989