Career comparison
Metal Model Maker vs. Tool and Die Maker
Side-by-side pay, training, growth and day-to-day duties to help you choose between two related careers.
Tool and die makers earn more at the median ($64,050 vs. $63,340), while metal model makers usually get to work faster (Years of machining experience of training). Metal model makers build precise metal and plastic prototypes from engineering drawings. Tool and die makers build the precision dies, molds and tools factories use to make parts.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Metal Model Maker | Tool and Die Maker | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $63,340 ($30.45/hr) | $64,050 ($30.79/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $39,760 – $99,010 | $44,680 – $92,680 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | -17.3% (a projected decline) | -9.2% (a projected decline) |
| Openings per year | 200 | 4,300 |
| Typical entry education | High school diploma or equivalent | Postsecondary nondegree award |
| Training time | Years of machining experience | 4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Key credential | NIMS machining credentials | NIMS credentials |
| Work setting | Model makers work in prototype shops and R&D labs.. | Toolmakers work in tool rooms and machine shops in factories and job shops. |
What each job does
Metal Model Maker
- Read drawings and CAD
- Machine prototype parts
- 3D print parts
- Fabricate assemblies
- Fit and adjust
Tool and Die Maker
- Read blueprints, CAD models and specifications
- Plan machining sequences for tools and dies
- Machine components on mills, lathes, grinders and EDMs
- Heat treat and finish tool steel
- Fit, assemble and test dies and molds
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 tool and die maker if…
- I love precise, detailed work
- I like machines and metal
- I’m patient with complex problems
Still torn? Take the Metal Model Maker fit quiz and the Tool and Die Maker fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, metal model maker or tool and die maker?
Tool and Die Makers earn more at the median: $64,050 versus $63,340 for metal model makers, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Metal Model Makers typically train faster (Years of machining experience) than tool and die makers (4 years (apprenticeship)).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects tool and die makers to grow -9.2% from 2025–35, compared with -17.3% for metal model makers.