Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

SOC code 51-4061 · O*NET-SOC 51-4061.00 · Medium preparation needed · Manufacturing and production

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$63,340

a year

Hourly

$30.45

per hour

10th$39,760Median$63,34090th$99,010

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$68,570

$32.97 per hour

Middle 50%

$47,360 – $86,740

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$39,760 – $99,010

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

2,610

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $39,760; $19.12/hr
25th percentile: $47,360; $22.77/hr
Median percentile: $63,340; $30.45/hr
75th percentile: $86,740; $41.70/hr
90th percentile: $99,010; $47.60/hr

What do model makers, metal and plastic do?

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.
Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.
Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.

How to qualify for this work

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 41% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)41%
Post-Secondary Certificate38%
Some College Courses15%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree5%

Common questions

How much does a model makers, metal and plastic earn?

The national median is $63,340 a year. The full range runs from $39,760 at the 10th percentile to $99,010 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a model makers, metal and plastic without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Critical Thinking3.3/5
Monitoring3.1/5
Reading Comprehension2.9/5

Knowledge areas

Mechanical4.3/5
Mathematics4.0/5
Production and Processing3.9/5
Design3.9/5
Engineering and Technology3.8/5
Computers and Electronics2.9/5
Sales and Marketing2.7/5
Customer and Personal Service2.6/5

Transferable strengths: Operation and Control, Operations Monitoring, Quality Control Analysis, Equipment Selection, Troubleshooting, Judgment and Decision Making.