Career comparison
CNC Machinist vs. Metal Model Maker
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Metal model makers earn more at the median ($63,340 vs. $58,750), while CNC machinists usually get to work faster (6–24 months of training). CNC machinists set up and run computer-controlled machines that cut precision metal parts. Metal model makers build precise metal and plastic prototypes from engineering drawings.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| CNC Machinist | Metal Model Maker | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $58,750 ($28.24/hr) | $63,340 ($30.45/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $39,200 – $80,010 | $39,760 – $99,010 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | +1.0% (slower than average) | -17.3% (a projected decline) |
| Openings per year | 26,100 | 200 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | 6–24 months | Years of machining experience |
| Key credential | NIMS credentials | NIMS machining credentials |
| Work setting | Machinists work in machine shops and factories. | Model makers work in prototype shops and R&D labs.. |
What each job does
CNC Machinist
- Read blueprints, GD&T and setup sheets
- Set up CNC mills and lathes, including fixtures, tools and offsets
- Load programs and run machines
- Measure parts with precision instruments and adjust offsets
- Perform first-article and in-process inspections
Metal Model Maker
- Read drawings and CAD
- Machine prototype parts
- 3D print parts
- Fabricate assemblies
- Fit and adjust
How they’re similar
Both careers involve hands-on work, indoor work, working independently, and problem-solving. Both are part of the mechanics, maintenance & manufacturing field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose CNC machinist if…
- I enjoy precise, careful work
- I like math and measurements
- I’m comfortable around machines
Choose metal model maker if…
- I love building things
- I’m a skilled machinist
- I like variety
Still torn? Take the CNC Machinist fit quiz and the Metal Model Maker fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, CNC machinist or metal model maker?
Metal Model Makers earn more at the median: $63,340 versus $58,750 for CNC machinists, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
CNC Machinists typically train faster (6–24 months) than metal model makers (Years of machining experience).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects CNC machinists to grow +1.0% from 2025–35, compared with -17.3% for metal model makers.