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The differences between model makers and tool 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 maker takes usually requires 4-6 years. Additionally, a tool maker has an average salary of $52,443, 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 maker are grinders, jigs, and hand tools.
| Model Maker | Tool Maker | |
| Yearly salary | $48,523 | $52,443 |
| Hourly rate | $23.33 | $25.21 |
| Growth rate | -5% | 1% |
| Number of jobs | 14,147 | 18,166 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Associate Degree, 37% |
| 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.
The job of a toolmaker is to make precision tools, holding devices, and special guides that are used in the manufacturing process. You will be responsible for repairing, maintaining, and improving jigs, fixtures, and fittings for press tools and all tooling dies, conducting routine regrinding and servicing of tools, and ensuring compliance with all quality standard regulations. In addition, you may be tasked to operate lifting equipment and forklift truck and document die history and other relevant records. You will also be responsible for conducting preventative maintenance.
Model makers and tool makers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Model Maker | Tool Maker | |
| Average salary | $48,523 | $52,443 |
| Salary range | Between $33,000 And $70,000 | Between $40,000 And $68,000 |
| Highest paying City | Warren, MI | Sterling Heights, MI |
| Highest paying state | New Mexico | Alaska |
| Best paying company | Apple | General Electric |
| Best paying industry | Retail | Automotive |
There are a few differences between a model maker and a tool maker in terms of educational background:
| Model Maker | Tool Maker | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 46% | Associate Degree, 37% |
| Most common major | Graphic Design | Precision Metal Working |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between model makers' and tool makers' demographics:
| Model Maker | Tool Maker | |
| Average age | 45 | 54 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 89.8% Female, 10.2% | Male, 97.3% Female, 2.7% |
| 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, 84.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% |
| LGBT Percentage | 3% | 3% |