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The differences between model makers and tool and die makers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a model maker, becoming a tool and die maker takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a tool and die maker has an average salary of $52,956, which is higher than the $48,523 average annual salary of a model maker.
The top three skills for a model maker include CNC, hand tools and cad cam. The most important skills for a tool and die maker are CNC, grinders, and jigs.
| Model Maker | Tool And Die Maker | |
| Yearly salary | $48,523 | $52,956 |
| Hourly rate | $23.33 | $25.46 |
| Growth rate | -5% | 1% |
| Number of jobs | 14,147 | 18,971 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 5 |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Associate Degree, 36% |
| Average age | 45 | 54 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 6 |
A model maker is a specialist in creating three-dimensional scale models of product blueprints, drawings or CAD designs using materials such as wood or plastics. They should be able to accurately interpret and visualize preliminary designs and create models that are an accurate representation of the designs. Model makers are craftspeople who turn concepts into reality. Turning designs into three-dimensional pieces enables designers to better picture issues that need to be altered before production.
A tool and die maker is responsible for operating various mechanical tools and equipment to create components, metal parts, and other tools for a wide range of industries. Tool and die makers analyze schematics and blueprints to assemble parts and verify dimensions accurately. They also perform diagnostic tests for the items and adjust specifications as needed. A tool and die maker must have excellent communication and organizational skills, as well as extensive knowledge of the technological and mechanical industries.
Model makers and tool and die makers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Model Maker | Tool And Die Maker | |
| Average salary | $48,523 | $52,956 |
| Salary range | Between $33,000 And $70,000 | Between $41,000 And $68,000 |
| Highest paying City | Warren, MI | Syracuse, NY |
| Highest paying state | New Mexico | New York |
| Best paying company | Apple | Amphenol |
| Best paying industry | Retail | Technology |
There are a few differences between a model maker and a tool and die maker in terms of educational background:
| Model Maker | Tool And Die Maker | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Associate Degree, 36% |
| Most common major | Graphic Design | Precision Metal Working |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between model makers' and tool and die makers' demographics:
| Model Maker | Tool And Die Maker | |
| Average age | 45 | 54 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.8% Female, 10.2% | Male, 96.2% Female, 3.8% |
| 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, 2.4% Unknown, 2.8% Hispanic or Latino, 6.5% Asian, 2.7% White, 84.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 3% |