Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
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.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Model Makers, Metal and Plastic to decrease by -17.3% between 2024 and 2034, from 2,600 to 2,200 jobs. Its estimate of 200 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($63,340), education (High school diploma or equivalent), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
2,600
Projected employment (2034)
2,200
Projected change (2024–2034)
-17%
Annual openings (projected average)
200
Pay & Preparation
$63,340
High school diploma or equivalent
None
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Essential Skills
Operation and Control (3.62/5) • Operations Monitoring (3.5/5) • Quality Control Analysis (3.25/5) • Critical Thinking (3.25/5) • Monitoring (3.12/5) • Judgment and Decision Making (3/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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