Median Annual Wage: $46,180
Education: High school diploma or equivalent (48%); Post-secondary certificate (39%); Bachelor's degree (8%)
Projected Growth: Little or no change (-2% to 2%)
Related Job Titles: Computer Numerical Control Machinist (CNC Machinist); Fabricator; Machinist; Tool Maker; Model Maker; Tool and Die Maker; Molding Technician; Metal Model Maker; Catalytic Converter Special Build Prototype; Prototype Special Build
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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic.
More Production Careers
- Set up and operate machines such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws to fabricate prototypes or models.
- 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.
- Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.
- 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.
- Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.
- Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
- Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.
- Consult and confer with engineering personnel to discuss developmental problems and to recommend product modifications.
- Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electronic components into models or prototypes, using hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines.
- Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic.
- Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
- Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
- Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
- Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
- Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
- Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Source: O*NET OnLine information for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic.