Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

What the job really is

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.

At a glance

• Sector: Production
• O*NET-SOC code: 51-4061
• O*NET job zone: 3 — medium preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• 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.
• Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.
• Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.

Tools and technology

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Word, Audio-oscillators, Bandsaws, Benchtop drill presses, CNC Software Mastercam, Capacitance checkers, Chain hoists, Computer numerical control CNC routers, Computer numerical control CNC vertical machine centers, Digital calipers

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Tool and Die Makers
• Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
• Machinists
• Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
• Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
• Model Makers, Wood
• Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
• Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 3 (medium preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

Browse the verified job sources directory, or explore more occupations.

Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Model Makers, Metal and Plastic — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.