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Career Exploration

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Also called: Metal Model Maker, Model Builder, Model Maker, Molding Technician

What they do:

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.

On the job, you would:
  • Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
  • Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
  • Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • design
  • product and service development

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Manufactured or Agricultural Goods

  • manufacture and distribution of products

Basic Skills

  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Hand and Finger Use

  • keep your arm or hand steady
  • hold or move items with your hands

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • communicate by speaking

Controlled Movement

  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
  • use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Integrity
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Innovation
  • Dependability
  • Initiative

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Computer aided manufacturing CAM software

  • CNC Software Mastercam

Office suite software

  • Microsoft Office software

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Below Average.

New job opportunities are less likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $57,620

Education

High school diploma/GED or certificate after high school is usually needed.