How To Become A Model Builder: What It Is and Career Path

What is a model builder and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Model builders typically craft three-dimensional scale models that companies can use in a variety of situations. They use the information and preliminary designs or blueprints to bring an idea into reality. Often model makers create 3D models for architects based on the architect's initial design or blueprint.

Model makers have several responsibilities in a variety of industries. When working with an architect, the model maker will be given the blueprints or sketches for the architect's building.

As a model maker, you can also work on film sets as part of the special effects team. Essentially, you would be the one who takes an idea and turns it into a three-dimensional piece in order to bring the design or concept to life. So, you are probably considered a vital part of the artistic and design process in any field you work in.

Your average salary as a model maker will vary based on your skills and in which industry you work. Despite this, you can expect to earn roughly around $59,260.

ScoreModel BuilderUS Average

Salary

5.8

Avg. Salary $73,763

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

8.4

Growth Rate -5%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

7.0

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.77%

Asian 10.85%

Black or African American 10.27%

Hispanic or Latino 17.64%

Unknown 4.09%

White 56.38%

Gender

female 23.38%

male 76.62%

Age - 46

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 46

Stress Level

8.4

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

8.7

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

4.4

Work Life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a model builder

Explore model builder education requirements

Most common model builder degrees

Bachelor's

66.0 %

Associate

14.3 %

High School Diploma

8.8 %

Start to develop specific model builder skills

Skills	Percentages
Prototyping	78.21%
Revit	9.52%
CNC	3.43%
Hand Tools	2.02%
Autocad	1.80%

Complete relevant model builder training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 4-10 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New model builders learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a model builder based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real model builder resumes.

Research model builder duties and responsibilities

Weld, using both MIG and TIG technologies.
Require to read logic to trouble shoot Siemens and Allen Bradley PLC's.
Operate sanders, laths, mills, drill press, CNC machines and various power tools.
Provide prototype display, design engineering and concept models for functional design testing

Get model builder experience

Generally, it takes 2-4 years to become a model builder. The most common roles before becoming a model builder include internship, architectural internship team lead and teaching assistant.

Apply for model builder jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a model builder job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do model builders rate their job?