Career comparison
Metal Model Maker vs. Metal Patternmaker
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. $58,000), while metal patternmakers usually get to work faster (Months to years of training of training). Metal model makers build precise metal and plastic prototypes from engineering drawings. Metal patternmakers make the patterns foundries use to form casting molds.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Metal Model Maker | Metal Patternmaker | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $63,340 ($30.45/hr) | $58,000 ($27.89/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $39,760 – $99,010 | $42,460 – $82,590 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | -17.3% (a projected decline) | -22.8% (a projected decline) |
| Openings per year | 200 | 100 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training time | Years of machining experience | Months to years of training |
| Key credential | NIMS machining credentials | AFS training |
| Work setting | Model makers work in prototype shops and R&D labs.. | Patternmakers work in pattern shops and foundries.. |
What each job does
Metal Model Maker
- Read drawings and CAD
- Machine prototype parts
- 3D print parts
- Fabricate assemblies
- Fit and adjust
Metal Patternmaker
- Read drawings
- Add shrink and draft
- Machine patterns
- Make core boxes
- Fit match plates
How they’re similar
Both careers involve hands-on work, creative work, problem-solving, and working independently. Both are part of the mechanics, maintenance & manufacturing field, so many skills transfer between them.
Which should you choose?
Choose metal model maker if…
- I love building things
- I’m a skilled machinist
- I like variety
Choose metal patternmaker if…
- I like precision craft
- I like foundries
- I like machining
Still torn? Take the Metal Model Maker fit quiz and the Metal Patternmaker fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, metal model maker or metal patternmaker?
Metal Model Makers earn more at the median: $63,340 versus $58,000 for metal patternmakers, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Metal Patternmakers typically train faster (Months to years of training) than metal model makers (Years of machining experience).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects metal model makers to grow -17.3% from 2025–35, compared with -22.8% for metal patternmakers.