Model Maker

Typical Salary

£16,000 To £30,000

Typical Hours

43 to 45 variable

evenings / weekends / bank holidays flexibly

How To Become a Model Maker

You can get into this job through:

a university course
a college course
an apprenticeship

College / University

You can do a foundation degree or degree in a subject like:

3D design
art and design
sculpture
visual effects
product design

a foundation diploma in art and design

at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree

2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You could do a college course to help you get started as a model maker. Courses inlcude:

Level 3 Award In 3D Computer-aided Design
Level 3 Diploma in 3D Design and Crafts
Level 4 Diploma in Art and Design

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course

Apprenticeship

You may be able to get into this job through an apprenticeship that includes model making skills. For example, an advanced apprenticeship in engineering woodworking, pattern and modelmaking.

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

You may be able to apply for jobs if you have experience of model making from other work like engineering, architectural technology, set design, carpentry or prop making.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

design skills and knowledge
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
knowledge of engineering science and technology
patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
to be flexible and open to change
analytical thinking skills
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Day To Day Tasks

Your day-to-day duties might include:

discussing the brief with the designer or client
using freehand drawing skills or computer-aided design (CAD) to illustrate initial ideas
using a range of hand, power and machine tools and computerised equipment to make models
using electronics or mechanical methods to make working models with moving parts
carrying out finishing processes like hand colouring or spray painting

Working Environment

You could work in a creative studio or in a workshop.

Your working environment may be dusty.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression

With experience you could lead a team of model makers in construction, engineering, film or TV.

As a self-employed model maker you could become an agent for other model makers.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Further information

Find more advice about working in model making in the creative industries through ScreenSkills.

You can get more information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.