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Plastic Model Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GENERAL PURPOSE The Senior Model Maker will independently perform and coordinate the building of ... forming and plastic. * Well-developed conceptual, analytical and communication skills.

GENERAL PURPOSE The Senior Model Maker will independently perform and coordinate the building of ... forming and plastic. * Well-developed conceptual, analytical and communication skills.

GENERAL PURPOSE The Senior Model Maker will independently perform and coordinate the building of ... forming and plastic. * Well-developed conceptual, analytical and communication skills.

Model Maker - Prototype & Model Shop Department: Research and Development Location: Wichita, KS ... Experience working with metals, plastics, aluminum extrusions, and other fabrication materials

Model Maker - Prototype & Model Shop Department: Research and Development Location: Wichita, KS ... Experience working with metals, plastics, aluminum extrusions, and other fabrication materials

Model Maker I

Ada, MI · On-site

$30.42 - $37.58/hr

Model Maker I Posting Start Date: 6/4/26 Posting Location: Ada (Grand Rapids), MI Requisition ID ... Experience building prototypes using a variety of materials (e.g., metals, wood, plastics, clay ...

Tool & Model Maker - P

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62K - $77K/yr

Tool & Model Maker $32-$44/hr + $7,500 Sign-On Bonus | 1st & 2nd Shift Join S&C Electric , a 100% employee-owned company with over 100 years of innovation. Your work will directly support projects ...

Model Maker III

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$65K - $86K/yr

As a Model Maker III, you will use blueprints, drawings, and/or CAD designs to create models according to established specifications. Key Responsibilities: * Create, design, and construct tools and ...

New

Model Maker III

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

What Drives Success As a Model Maker III, you will use blueprints, drawings, and/or CAD designs to create models according to established specifications. Key Responsibilities: * Create, design, and ...

New

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 ...

Model Maker III

Carrollton, TX · On-site

$65K - $86K/yr

What Drives Success As a Model Maker III, you will use blueprints, drawings, and/or CAD designs to create models according to established specifications. Key Responsibilities: * Create, design, and ...

New

What Drives Success As a Model Maker III, you will use blueprints, drawings, and/or CAD designs to create models according to established specifications. Key Responsibilities: * Create, design, and ...

New

Model Maker I

Ada, MI

$30.42 - $37.58/hr

Model Maker I Department / Division: Rapid Prototyping / Research & Development (4001) Salary Range ... Experience building prototypes using a variety of materials (e.g., metals, wood, plastics, clay ...

... materials, including plastics and tool steels. This is an opportunity to leverage your ... of model/mold making. * Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in ...

New

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Plastic Model Maker information

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$10

$17

$32

How much do plastic model maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic model maker in the United States is $17.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastic Model Maker vs Model Builder?

AspectPlastic Model MakerModel Builder
CredentialsOften requires basic technical skills, sometimes certifications in model making or craftsmanshipMay require similar skills, especially in technical or craftsmanship areas
Work EnvironmentFactories, hobby shops, or custom workshopsWorkshops, construction sites, or hobby clubs
Industry UsageModel manufacturing, hobby industry, entertainmentTheme parks, exhibitions, or custom displays
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on manufacturing and hobbyist aspectsEmphasizes construction and display of models

Both roles involve creating models, but Plastic Model Makers typically focus on assembling and painting plastic kits in manufacturing or hobby settings, while Model Builders often work on constructing larger or custom models for displays or exhibitions. The skills and environments overlap, but their specific applications differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plastic Model Maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastic Model Maker, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and proficiency in reading technical drawings, often supported by a background in industrial design or a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, 3D printers, and hand/power tools is typically required to accurately create and finish models. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help in collaborating with designers and engineers. These skills are essential for producing precise prototypes and models that meet design specifications and support product development.

What are some typical challenges faced by Plastic Model Makers in their daily work?

Plastic Model Makers often encounter challenges related to interpreting complex blueprints and translating them into precise, detailed models. Achieving high levels of accuracy and surface finish requires patience and meticulous attention to detail, especially when working with small or intricate parts. Additionally, adapting to new materials, tools, or rapid prototyping technologies can be demanding, but it also offers opportunities for continuous learning and skill development within the team environment.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

The Plastic Model Maker role may decline as automation and 3D printing technologies advance, reducing the need for manual assembly and craftsmanship. Jobs involving repetitive manual tasks or traditional manufacturing skills are expected to decrease, while roles requiring digital skills and advanced technology proficiency will grow.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Plastic Model Maker, earning $300,000 annually is uncommon, as the role typically offers lower wages. High-paying jobs in the US that can reach or exceed this level often include specialized roles such as surgeons, corporate executives, or certain technology and finance professionals, which require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often certifications. Most plastic model makers earn a median salary well below this threshold, even with years of experience or working in high-end custom shops.

How much do model makers get paid?

Plastic model makers typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and the complexity of projects. Skilled model makers working in specialized industries or with advanced tools may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are plastic model makers?

Plastic model makers are skilled professionals who design, build, and assemble detailed scale models using plastic materials. These models can represent vehicles, buildings, prototypes, or other objects, and are often used in industries such as manufacturing, film, architecture, and hobby modeling. Plastic model makers use hand tools, adhesives, paints, and sometimes computer-aided design (CAD) software to create accurate and visually appealing models for display, testing, or demonstration purposes.

How do I become a model maker?

To become a plastic model maker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with skills in craftsmanship, attention to detail, and familiarity with modeling tools and materials. Many start with hobby experience or vocational training in art, design, or manufacturing, and some pursue certifications or courses in model making or related fields to improve their skills and job prospects.
More about Plastic Model Maker jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Plastic Model Maker jobs? The top employers for Plastic Model Maker jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Model Maker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Model Maker jobs are:
Infographic showing various Plastic Model Maker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,318 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Senior Model Maker

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


MillerKnoll rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 46 rated furniture manufacturers


Job description

Why join us?

Our purpose is design for the good of humankind. It's the ideal we strive toward each day in everything we do. Being a part of MillerKnoll means being a part of something larger than your work team, or even your brand. We are redefining modern for the 21st century. And our success allows MillerKnoll to support causes that align with our values, so we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful future for everyone.

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Senior Model Maker will independently perform and coordinate the building of prototypes, models, and mock-ups to a degree of completion required by Design and Development teams for proper evaluation and presentation. Works from sketches, layout drawings, completed detailed drawings, CAD data as available in accordance with a predetermined schedules and priorities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Able to lead cost estimating exercises for components and large development builds.

  • Collaborate on product design solutions with Design and Development teams to influence feasibility of production or prototype runs.

  • Design and build fixtures or molds as needed to aid in the building of models and prototypes.

  • Develop and build models, prototypes and mock-ups in the most feasible way, per customer requirements, goals and objectives.

  • Lead in the development and training of model maker apprentice.

  • Perform responsibilities in a safe and organized manner in compliance with state, federal, and company policy.

  • Professional in the use with standard modeling techniques, materials, processes, and technology.

  • Recommend and use materials, method, procedure, and technology used in building models and prototypes.

  • Serve as the lead model maker on projects and provide technical expertise, recommendations, and directional guidance to assigned team.

  • Take strong ownership in projects; provide vital feedback to customers on projects completed.

  • Work normally under no supervision.

  • Performs additional responsibilities as requested to achieve business objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

  • Journeyman Design Model Maker or equivalent.

  • 10 + years' experience in a Design/Development Model Shop.

Skills and Abilities

  • Possess good competence and creative skills.

  • Professional knowledge, understanding and experience working with a variety of materials such as clay, wood, metal, sheet metal, plastics, epoxies, urethanes and metal castings.

  • Familiarity with Industrial Design concepts and processes.

  • Professional knowledge and understanding of manufacturing processes, related to wood, metal forming and plastic.

  • Well-developed conceptual, analytical and communication skills.

  • Professional understanding of the Rapid-Prototyping and Rapid-Tooling industry and processes.

  • Professional knowledge of Product View, Solid View, Pro-E drawing and part files, importing and exporting CAD data, CNC/CAM.

  • Professional understanding of the modeling technologies and equipment used in CAD/CAM, Product Visualization, and FEA.

  • Ability to make sound decisions without all relevant data present.

  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.

  • Ability to solve problems with the sense of urgency in a fast paced environment.

  • Self-starter, reliable, motivated in ones work, with a strong ability to work in a team environment.

  • Capable of working under minimal or no supervision.

  • Demonstrated ability to effectively use office automation, communication, software and tools currently used in the HMI office environment.

  • Must be able to perform all essential functions of the position with or without accommodations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to perform all essential functions of the position with or without accommodations.

Who We Hire?

Simply put, we hire qualified applicants representing a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. MillerKnoll is comprised of people of all abilities, gender identities and expressions, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, veterans from every branch of military service, and more. Here, you can bring your whole self to work. We're committed to equal opportunity employment, including veterans and people with disabilities.

This organization participates in E-Verify Employment Eligibility Verification. In general, MillerKnoll positions are closed within 45 days and are open for applications for a minimum of 5 days. We encourage our prospective candidates to submit their application(s) expediently so as not to miss out on our opportunities. We frequently post new opportunities and encourage prospective candidates to check back often for new postings.

MillerKnoll complies with applicable disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact MillerKnoll Talent Acquisition at careers_help@millerknoll.com .


Employment Type: Full Time

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