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Scale Model Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maker Educator

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Our vision is to become the standard of excellence for inclusive, impactful maker learning nationally, and a model for how to expand access to maker learning at scale. Our headquarters in the ...

GCD - Performance, CRM and Scale

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

GCD - Performance, CRM and Scale

New York, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

Tool & Die Maker A

Lancaster, PA

$25.25 - $31.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... extensive scale, top brands such as Amerimax, Berger, Verde, and Flamco, and longstanding ... Possess ability to read and understand specifications such as blueprints, sketches, models, or ...

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

GCD - Performance, CRM and Scale

San Francisco, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

GCD - Performance, CRM and Scale

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

... enabled model where human artistry meets machine speed. This role requires immense change ... Technical Literacy & "Maker" Mindset: A forward-thinking leader who understands the mechanics of ...

Tool Maker C

Erie, PA

$25.75 - $33.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Work from detailed blueprints, sketches, models, and verbal instructions in order to meet quality ... Our scale is global, but our purpose is personal. We enable breakthroughs that improve lives ...

Tool Maker

Fremont, CA · On-site

$36 - $44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... with scale and expertise to bring devices to market efficiently. Learn more at Viant Medical ... Interpret complex blueprints, CAD models, and engineering drawings. * Troubleshoot mold performance ...

Showing results 21-40

Scale Model Maker information

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How much do scale model maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for scale model maker in the United States is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by scale model makers on the job?

Scale Model Makers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, working with intricate components at miniature scales, and choosing the right materials for durability and realism. Meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and detail can also be demanding, especially when collaborating with designers, engineers, or clients with specific requirements. Additionally, adapting to new technologies like 3D printing and digital modeling can be essential for staying competitive in the field. However, overcoming these challenges can be highly rewarding and often leads to the development of valuable technical and creative skills that support career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scale model maker?

To thrive as a Scale Model Maker, you need excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of design principles or technical drawings, often supported by coursework or experience in model making, industrial design, or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as precision hand tools, 3D printers, CAD software, and materials like plastics, wood, and metal is highly desirable. Creative problem-solving, time management, and effective communication skills help you excel when working on team projects and meeting tight deadlines. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate, high-quality models that support design, engineering, or architectural projects.

What is a scale model maker?

A Scale Model Maker builds precise, small-scale replicas of objects, structures, or products for industries like architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. They use materials such as wood, plastic, and metal, often incorporating 3D printing and CNC machining. These models help visualize designs, test functionality, or present concepts to clients. Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship are essential skills for the role.

What jobs use scale models?

Scale model makers create detailed miniature versions of objects for various industries, including architecture, film, engineering, and product design. These professionals often work with tools like CAD software and modeling materials to produce accurate representations used for presentations, testing, or visual effects.

How do you become a scale model maker?

To become a scale model maker, you typically develop skills in drawing, painting, and working with various modeling materials through self-study, workshops, or formal education such as art or design programs. Gaining experience with tools like hobby knives, airbrushes, and modeling software, along with building a strong portfolio, can help you enter the field and find opportunities in hobby shops, studios, or freelance work.
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Infographic showing various Scale Model Maker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,445 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Sr. Prototype Model Fabricator-Costa Mesa,California

ANDURIL INDUSTRIES

Dana Point, CA

$49.04/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,359 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century's most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
ABOUT THE TEAM
The Model Shop is a new in-house capability that partners with Design, Engineering, and business stakeholders to turn digital concepts into full-scale, presentation-quality physical models. These models help teams communicate design intent, evaluate physical form, and showcase Anduril products to customers and other stakeholders. By bringing this capability in house, the team will improve speed, iteration, craftsmanship, and control while reducing significant reliance on external vendors.
ABOUT THE JOB
We are looking for a Prototype Model Fabricatorto join our rapidly growing team in Costa Mesa, Ca. In this role you will be part of the Model Shop team, building scale physical design and aerodynamic models utilizing a wide range of model making disciplines.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Build scale physical design models utilizing a wide range of model-making techniques (i.e., metal, plastic, composite fabrication, woodworking, surface, and paint).
  • Execute final surface prepping, hand-sanding, bonding, and priming to ensure a flawless finish.
  • Read and interpret design blueprints and technical drawings.
  • Collaborate with designers, engineers, and fellow fabricators.
  • Utilize and help maintain shop machinery and equipment.
  • Monitor and report shop consumables inventory needs.
  • Maintain strict accuracy and quality standards.
  • Participate in team meetings to improve workflow and efficiency.
  • Keep the shop organized, clean, and safe.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 10+ years experience in physical model builds
  • Ability to operate machining, fabrication, wood working equipment (manual mill/lathe, bench grinders, variety of saws, shears, etc.)
  • Sheet metal fabrication experience (using press brakes, finger brakes, slip rollers, bead rollers, and other forming equipment)
  • Welding (GMAW/FCAW/GTAW) of steel, stainless, and aluminum with 5+ years experience
  • Ability to work through Model Making tasks with limited oversight (evaluate, design, order materials, execute)
  • Ability to fit, surface and paint high quality physical models
  • High level of mechanical aptitude (aerospace/automotive/motorsports background)
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in workmanship
  • Advanced knowledge of engineering design and model making procedures
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Ability to work overtime and weekends
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, flexible team environment
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • CAD experience
  • Additive Manufacturing experience

US Hourly Range
$37.02-$49.04 USD
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Benefits
At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you're supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Recruitment Scams
Anduril is committed to maintaining the integrity of our Talent acquisition process and the security of our candidates. We've observed a rise in sophisticated phishing and fraudulent schemes where individuals impersonate Anduril representatives, luring job seekers with false interviews or job offers. These scammers often attempt to extract payment or sensitive personal information.
To ensure your safety and help you navigate your job search with confidence, please keep the following critical points in mind:
  • No Financial Requests: Anduril will never solicit payment or demand personal financial details (such as banking information, credit card numbers, or social security numbers) at any stage of our hiring process. Our legitimate recruitment is entirely free for candidates.
  • Please always verify communications:
    • Direct from Anduril: If you receive an email from one of our recruiters, it will only come from an @anduril.com address.
    • Via Agency Partner: If contacted by a recruiting agency for an Anduril role, their email will clearly identify their agency. If you suspect any suspicious activity, please verify the agency's authenticity by reaching out to contact@anduril.com.
  • Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Outreach: If you receive any communication that appears suspicious, contains grammatical errors, or makes unusual requests, do not engage. Always confirm the sender's email domain is @anduril.com before providing any personal information or clicking on links.
  • What to Do If You Suspect Fraud: Should you encounter any questionable or fraudulent outreach claiming to be from Anduril, please report it immediately to contact@anduril.com. Your proactive caution is invaluable in protecting your personal information and upholding the security and trustworthiness of our recruitment efforts.

Data Privacy
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening and assessing potential risks as part of your application process. This third-party service provider provides risk-intelligence services that may include analysis of sanctions and watchlists, adverse media, public-record information, and other lawful open-source or commercial data sources. This third-party service provider does not act as a consumer reporting agency. Use of this provider helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and protect technology, intellectual property, and organizational security.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.


What Anduril employees say

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Benefits

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Get the full story on Breakroom


Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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