Career comparison
Metal Model Maker vs. Wood 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. $56,550), while wood model makers usually get to work faster (Months to years of practice of training). Metal model makers build precise metal and plastic prototypes from engineering drawings. Wood model makers build precise wood models and prototypes for designers and engineers.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
| Metal Model Maker | Wood Model Maker | |
|---|---|---|
| Median pay | $63,340 ($30.45/hr) | $56,550 ($27.19/hr) |
| Pay range (10th–90th) | $39,760 – $99,010 | $34,800 – $98,050 |
| Job growth, 2025–35 | -17.3% (a projected decline) | -3.3% (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 practice |
| Key credential | NIMS machining credentials | Woodworking certificate |
| Work setting | Model makers work in prototype shops and R&D labs.. | Model makers work in model shops, design firms and studios.. |
What each job does
Metal Model Maker
- Read drawings and CAD
- Machine prototype parts
- 3D print parts
- Fabricate assemblies
- Fit and adjust
Wood Model Maker
- Read drawings
- Build models
- Machine wood parts
- Use CNC and laser cutters
- Finish models
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 wood model maker if…
- I love building models
- I’m creative
- I’m precise
Still torn? Take the Metal Model Maker fit quiz and the Wood Model Maker fit quiz, or the full Career Match Quiz.
Quick comparisons
Which pays more, metal model maker or wood model maker?
Metal Model Makers earn more at the median: $63,340 versus $56,550 for wood model makers, based on BLS May 2025 data.
Which takes less time to train for?
Wood Model Makers typically train faster (Months to years of practice) than metal model makers (Years of machining experience).
Which career has better job growth?
BLS projects wood model makers to grow -3.3% from 2025–35, compared with -17.3% for metal model makers.