CNC Machinist
Set up and run computer-controlled machines that cut precision metal parts.
- $58,750
- 6–24 months
Mechanics, Maintenance & Manufacturing career
Metal Model Maker
Also called: Prototype Machinist · Model Maker · Experimental Machinist · Prototype Technician
What metal model makers do, what they earn, how long training takes and how to get started, with official BLS pay data and practical, job-level detail.
What does a metal model maker do?
Model makers, metal and plastic, set up and operate machines to make working models of metal or plastic objects, often prototypes for engineering. The median pay is $63,340 per year (BLS, May 2025), most people train for about Years of machining experience, and employment is projected to grow -17.3% from 2025–35.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
- Median pay$63,340$30.45/hour · May 2025
- Job growth-17.3%2025–35, a projected decline
- Openings per year200Average, 2025–35
- Typical entry educationHigh school diploma or equivalentBLS classification
- Time to trainYears of machining experienceTypical program length
- U.S. jobs2,600Employment, 2025
What metal model makers do
Model makers turn designs into first physical parts. They read engineering drawings and CAD models, machine, fabricate and 3D print prototype parts, fit assemblies and work with engineers to test and refine designs.
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical, but most have strong machining experience. It is a small occupation, and BLS projects decline.
Typical duties
- Read drawings and CAD
- Machine prototype parts
- 3D print parts
- Fabricate assemblies
- Fit and adjust
- Work with engineers
- Measure and inspect
Work environment and schedule
Model makers work in prototype shops and R&D labs.
Schedule: Full-time daytime hours.
A day in the life
- Review a new prototype request.
- Program a CNC mill.
- Machine a housing.
- Print a bracket.
See a full day in the life of a metal model maker →
Metal Model Maker salary
Half of metal model makers earned more than $63,340 and half earned less in May 2025. Pay ranged from about $39,760 for the lowest 10% to $99,010 for the top 10%.
Full metal model maker pay scale and hourly rates →
How to become a metal model maker
- Finish high school
- Learn machining
- Work as a machinist
- Learn CAD and printing
- Move into prototyping
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; strong machining experience is key.
Step-by-step guide to becoming a metal model maker →
Skills and tools
Technical skills
- Machining
- CAD reading
- 3D printing
- Fabrication
- Measurement
People skills
- Creativity
- Communication
- Precision
- Patience
All metal model maker skills and tools →
Pros and cons
Pros
- Creative, varied work
- Work with engineers
- Skilled craft
- Daytime hours
Cons
- Declining employment
- Few openings
- Tight deadlines
- Needs broad skills
Certifications and licenses
- NIMS machining credentials: Skills.
- CAD certificate: Helpful.
- Machining certificate: Community college.
- 3D printing training: Helpful.
Career path
- Machinist: Experience.
- Model Maker: Prototypes.
- Senior Model Maker: Complex builds.
- Prototype Shop Lead: Lead.
Learn the job before day one
Our Metal Model Maker training (10 hours, $89.99) covers the role, 15+ key terms, step-by-step procedures such as turn a CAD model into a prototype part and decide between machining and 3d printing, safety and how to land your first job.
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Wood Model Maker
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Compare: Metal Model Maker vs. CNC Machinist · Metal Model Maker vs. Tool and Die Maker · Metal Model Maker vs. Mechanical Engineering Tech · Metal Model Maker vs. Wood Model Maker
Metal Model Maker FAQ
What does a model maker do?
Builds prototypes for engineers.
Is it a common job?
No, it’s small.
What experience is needed?
Strong machining skills.
How much does a metal model maker make?
The median annual wage for metal model makers was $63,340 ($30.45 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $39,760 and the highest 10% earned more than $99,010.
How long does it take to become a metal model maker?
Most people need about Years of machining experience of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical; strong machining experience is key.
Do you need a degree to be a metal model maker?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
More metal model maker questions →
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-4061 (Model makers, metal and plastic).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Model makers, metal and plastic (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.