Model maker vs pattern finisher

The differences between model makers and pattern finishers 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 pattern finisher. Additionally, a model maker has an average salary of $48,523, which is higher than the $33,234 average annual salary of a pattern finisher.

The top three skills for a model maker include CNC, hand tools and cad cam. The most important skills for a pattern finisher are hand tools, wax patterns, and quality standards.

Model maker vs pattern finisher overview

	Model Maker	Pattern Finisher
Yearly salary	$48,523	$33,234
Hourly rate	$23.33	$15.98
Growth rate	-5%	-5%
Number of jobs	14,147	2,106
Job satisfaction	-	-
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 46%	Associate Degree, 40%
Average age	45	45
Years of experience	4	4

Model maker vs pattern finisher salary

Model makers and pattern finishers have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Model Maker	Pattern Finisher
Average salary	$48,523	$33,234
Salary range	Between $33,000 And $70,000	Between $26,000 And $42,000
Highest paying City	Warren, MI	-
Highest paying state	New Mexico	-
Best paying company	Apple	-
Best paying industry	Retail	-

Differences between model maker and pattern finisher education

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

	Model Maker	Pattern Finisher
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 46%	Associate Degree, 40%
Most common major	Graphic Design	Graphic Design
Most common college	-	-

Model maker vs pattern finisher demographics

Here are the differences between model makers' and pattern finishers' demographics:

	Model Maker	Pattern Finisher
Average age	45	45
Gender ratio	Male, 89.8% Female, 10.2%	Male, 50.0% Female, 50.0%
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 pattern finisher 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.

Pattern finisher example responsibilities.

Develop patterns using AutoCAD while working closely with manufacturing to ensure the customer order is processed accurately with minimum lead time.
Follow and demonstrate the significance of FDA code of regulations during audits to identify recommendations and non-conformances.

Model maker vs pattern finisher skills

Common model maker skills

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

Common pattern finisher skills

Hand Tools, 82%
WAX Patterns, 11%
Quality Standards, 7%

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Updated January 8, 2025

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