How much does a model maker make?
a year · about $30 an hour
A typical model maker in the United States makes $63,340 a year, about $30 an hour, about the same as a typical US worker (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What do they do?
They read a blueprint, set up a lathe, mill, or CNC machine, and shape metal or plastic into a prototype. Then they measure and test each part, smooth or adjust it, and discuss fixes with engineers.
Did you know? U.S. model makers may use a 3D printer—not just a lathe or milling machine—to make a model or prototype.
Is that a lot?
Compared with jobs you knowIf 100 people had this job
Most earn between $39,760 and $99,010How do you become one?
In the U.S., start with high school; math, programming, and shop classes help, and vocational or community-college courses can teach machining and CNC. Then train with experienced workers—often for one to two years—or pursue a related apprenticeship.
School needed: Vocational school or a few years' experience
Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized
Why does pay differ?
In the U.S., experienced makers and people with in-demand skills, such as CNC programming, may earn more. Pay can also change with the employer’s industry and location.
Where does it pay most?
Highest in California ($92,960), lowest in North Carolina ($45,760).
See every state
Top 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
Jobs like this
Data table and sources
| Lower earner (10th from bottom) | Typical person (median) | Higher earner (10th from top) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|---|
| $39,760 | $63,340 | $99,010 | about 3,000 |
| State | Typical person (median) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| California | $92,960 | about 260 |
| Florida | $79,930 | about 50 |
| New York | $77,710 | about 120 |
| New Jersey | $72,340 | about 70 |
| Illinois | $68,890 | — |
Official definition: 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.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (bls.gov); descriptions and related jobs from O*NET 31.0. Figures as of May 2025, full-time yearly pay (hourly × 2,080 hours). bls.gov/oes · O*NET OnLine
Pages used for the text
- www.bls.gov/OOH/production/metal-and-plastic-machine-workers.htm
- www.onetonline.org/link/details/51-4061.00
- www.onetonline.org/skills/zone/51-4061.00
- www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes514061.htm
- www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/print/wage-differences.htm
Data: US BLS OEWS, May 2025 · 1 USD = 150 JPY