How to become a Model Maker

Model makers construct full-size and scale models of landscape, engineering, architectural, automotive and other industrial designs. They work from scale drawings, plans, photographs and lists of figures or specifications requiring conversion to three-dimensional form. These models help designers to see how a project, such as a building or a car, will look or work before it is completed. Some model makers, such as automotive clay modellers, may specialise in high-quality artistic work, while others may concentrate on technically accurate models.

Personal requirements for a Model Maker

Enjoy practical and manual activities
Good hand-eye coordination
Able to visualise three-dimensional forms when looking at a technical drawing
Creative and practical
Able to work quickly and accurately
Good at mathematics

Education & Training for a Model Maker

You can work as a model maker without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications and you may like to consider a VET course. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Duties & Tasks of a Model Maker

Model makers:

Look at drawings, drafts or samples and consult designers about specifications
Choose suitable material, mark out parts, determine layout and cut out pieces using the appropriate cutting equipment for the material being used
Construct models using a variety of adhesives, machinery and hand tools
Operate computer modelling programs
Colour a model using paint, varnish and other finishes
Add details to create authenticity such as windows, road lines and lettering
Construct working models, such as model furnaces, to test if they work properly prior to construction
Comply with local or national design standards
Alter models to meet new specifications.

Tasks

Assists photographers in taking and developing photographs
Plans the interior design of commercial or residential premises and arranges for decorating work to be done
Sets up, adjusts, repairs and troubleshoots machines which manufacture plastics products
Interprets optical prescriptions, and fits and services optical appliances such as spectacle frames and lenses
Swims underwater to undertake tasks such as seafood gathering, research, salvage and construction
Operates machines to grind, polish and surface optical lenses to meet prescription requirements, and fits lenses to spectacle frames
Classifies wool to industry standards or market requirements

Working conditions for a Model Maker

Model makers work in industrial research or design and development laboratories, which may be in offices or open workshops.

Employment Opportunities for a Model Maker

Most model makers work on a contract basis. There are a number of companies that undertake model making for a wide range of activities, including architectural, engineering and topographical models, promotional displays, stage props and sculptures.

Specializations

Model Maker

Average age
43
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
13% female
Average full-time
42 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Medium skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
75%
Employment Size
4,200
Employment by state
ACT: 1.4%
NSW: 32.6%
NT: 0.8%
QLD: 19.2%
SA: 8.1%
TAS: 2.4%
VIC: 24.5%
WA: 11.1%
Age brackets
15-19: 2.1%
20-24: 10.4%
25-34: 24.6%
35-44: 23%
45-54: 22%
55-59: 8.5%
60-64: 5.8%
65 and Over: 3.7%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 15.4%
Bachelor degree: 12.5%
Below Year 10: 0%
Certificate III/IV: 34.9%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 2.9%
Year 10 and below: 10.4%
Year 11: 4.4%
Year 12: 19.5%
Years 11 & 10: 22.5%