Model maker vs model maker apprentice

The differences between model makers and model maker apprentices can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a model maker and a model maker apprentice. Additionally, a model maker has an average salary of $48,523, which is higher than the $45,077 average annual salary of a model maker apprentice.

The top three skills for a model maker include CNC, hand tools and cad cam. The most important skills for a model maker apprentice are grinders, MIG, and .

Model maker vs model maker apprentice overview

	Model Maker	Model Maker Apprentice
Yearly salary	$48,523	$45,077
Hourly rate	$23.33	$21.67
Growth rate	-5%	-5%
Number of jobs	14,147	13,744
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 46%	Bachelor's Degree, 64%
Average age	45	45
Years of experience	4	4

Model maker vs model maker apprentice salary

Model makers and model maker apprentices have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Model Maker	Model Maker Apprentice
Average salary	$48,523	$45,077
Salary range	Between $33,000 And $70,000	Between $30,000 And $65,000
Highest paying City	Warren, MI	-
Highest paying state	New Mexico	-
Best paying company	Apple	-
Best paying industry	Retail	-

Differences between model maker and model maker apprentice education

There are a few differences between a model maker and a model maker apprentice in terms of educational background:

	Model Maker	Model Maker Apprentice
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 46%	Bachelor's Degree, 64%
Most common major	Graphic Design	Business
Most common college	-	-

Model maker vs model maker apprentice demographics

Here are the differences between model makers' and model maker apprentices' demographics:

	Model Maker	Model Maker Apprentice
Average age	45	45
Gender ratio	Male, 89.8% Female, 10.2%	Male, 96.4% Female, 3.6%
Race ratio	Black or African American, 9.4% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 15.7% Asian, 8.8% White, 60.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9%	Black or African American, 10.6% Unknown, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 18.4% Asian, 6.7% White, 59.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7%
LGBT Percentage	3%	3%

Differences between model maker and model maker apprentice duties and responsibilities

Model maker example responsibilities.

Draw out plans for test fixtures using Autocad.
Develop and document operating procedures for CNC machines along with MasterCam CAD/CAM programming interface.
Train in Mig, Tig, and stick welding.
Improve system design with FEA and CFD.
Programme and operate waterjet equipment and wire EDM.
Spot weld assemblies using A/C and D/C welders.

Model maker apprentice example responsibilities.

Coordinate international sample/model making for costume jewelry
Order all shop expend materials on in house computer system (AS400).

Model maker vs model maker apprentice skills

Common model maker skills

CNC, 16%
Hand Tools, 7%
Cad Cam, 6%
Calipers, 5%
Model Shop, 5%
Grinders, 4%

Common model maker apprentice skills

Grinders, 52%
MIG, 48%

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Updated January 8, 2025

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