Shigoto Zukan
日本語

How to become model makers, metal and plasticeducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Manufacturing & Repair Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$63,340
25th–75th pct. $47,360–$86,740
Top pay (est.)
$128,700
Top 10% $99,010
Pay in 5 years
$70,800est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$79,100est.
$68,000–$91,800
Outlook score
34/100
★★☆☆☆ Below average
AI replacement risk
44%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
−17.3%
200 openings / yr

How to become model makers, metal and plastic

Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Key skills

Operation and Control
3.5
Quality Control Analysis
3.4
Operations Monitoring
3.4
Critical Thinking
3.2
Troubleshooting
3.2
Equipment Selection
3.0
Time Management
3.0
Monitoring
3.0

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mechanical
4.6
Mathematics
3.9
Computers and Electronics
3.7
Design
3.6
Production and Processing
3.6
Engineering and Technology
3.5
Chemistry
2.6
Sales and Marketing
2.6

What the work involves

Controlling Machines and ProcessesHandling and Moving ObjectsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsMaking Decisions and Solving Problems

Important abilities

Near VisionReaction TimeVisualizationControl PrecisionOral ComprehensionFinger Dexterity

Education of workers

Post-secondary certificate
38%
Some college
15%
Associate's degree
5%

Training before entry

None / short demo
16%
Up to 1 month
16%
3–6 months
14%
2–4 years
5%
1–3 months
2%
4–10 years
2%

Related work experience

1–2 years
40%
2–4 years
27%
None
19%
6–12 months
11%
6–8 years
2%

Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as model makers, metal and plastic

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.