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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Median Salary
64,190
Job Outlook
-6%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

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.

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of metal and plastic machine workers is projected to decline 6 percent from 2023 to 2033. About 91,800 openings for metal and plastic machine workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$46,610

10%

$64,190

Median

$82,980

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

What level of education do professionals in this role have?

Education Level

  • High school

    39%

  • Post-secondary certificate

    39%

  • Associate's degree

    21%

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Sheet Metal Technology/Sheetworking

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Technology Design and Control

    High

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Low

  • Leadership

    Low

  • Math and Science Skills

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Low

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Mechanical
  • Mathematics
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Design
  • Production and Processing

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Time Pressure

    High

  • Decision Making

    High

  • Physical Activity

    High

  • Level Of Competition

    High

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Mid

  • Repetitiveness

    Mid

  • Responsibility

    Mid

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test