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Manufacturing51-4061.00Specialization

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

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.

$64,190
Median Pay
Less than 6 months
Training
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In Transition
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View Metal & Plastic Machine Workers

This is a specialization of

Metal & Plastic Machine Workers

Career Overview Video

AI Impact Assessment

AI Resilience Score

Score 2/6: low AI task exposure, declining job demand, limited human advantage indicates this career is being transformed by AI

🟠In Transition

How we calculated this:

AI Exposure
Low+2

16% of tasks can be accelerated by AI

Job Growth
Declining+0

-18% projected (2024-2034)

Human Advantage
Weak+0

EPOCH score: 10/25

Total Score2/6
Methodology: v2.0 - GPTs are GPTs / BLS / EPOCH Additive ScoringUpdated: 2026-01-09
View full methodology →

Key Responsibilities

  • Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
  • Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.
  • Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
  • Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
  • Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.
  • Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
  • Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
  • Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.
  • Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
  • Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.

Education & Training

Typical Entry Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Time to Job Ready

1-3 years

Based on Job Zone 3. For formal education duration only, see education_duration.

Technology Skills

CAD software (Creo, SolidWorks)CAM software (Mastercam)3D printing softwareMicrosoft ExcelCNC programming

Key Abilities

Near VisionVisualizationArm-Hand SteadinessManual DexterityFinger DexterityControl PrecisionWritten ComprehensionInformation OrderingOral ComprehensionProblem Sensitivity

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Compensation Details

$42,470
10th Percentile
$64,190
Median
$88,420
90th Percentile

Based on 2,840 employed workers

Also Known As

Aircraft Mockup BuilderAppliances Sample MakerAuto Manufacturing Model Maker (Automotive Manufacturing Model Maker)Clock and Watch Model MakerCNC Machinist (Computer Numerical Control Machinist)CNC Operator (Computer Numerical Control Operator)CNC Programmer (Computer Numerical Control Programmer)DioramistDisplay MakerEngineering Model Maker

Data from O*NET 30.1 and BLS Occupational Employment Statistics

O*NET Code: 51-4061.00