Production & Manufacturing · Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$33–40k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$60–71k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
-18.2% · Declining
Projected decline of -18.2% from 2024 to 2034.
Time to Start
2–4 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Plastic
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Experienced Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Senior Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Director of Production & Manufacturing
You prioritize Support
This career is strongly aligned with Support — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Operation and Control
Operation and Control is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires some college or a registered apprenticeship, which matches common student preparation goals.
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18 schools offer programs in this career field.
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