Model maker

Model makers build models or “mock-ups” to help designers get a better idea of what their design looks like, how it fits into its surroundings and how practical it is. They work with a variety of materials such as wood, plastic and metal.

Work activities

Model makers build three-dimensional models or “mock-ups” to help designers get a better idea of what their design looks like, how it fits into its surroundings and how practical the design is. Designers need to see or test their design before a decision is made to spend money and time on its production. After talking to the designer, model makers work from design drawings, plans, photos or computer graphics. They use materials like wood, plastic, metal, plaster, paper or card to produce models. Machine and hand tools are used to shape the materials.

A model can be scaled up or down depending on what it represents and its purpose. A planned motorway flyover system, for example, will be greatly scaled down, whereas a newly discovered molecular structure will be scaled up. Models are also used to create special effects in films, television, theatre and in certain types of exhibition. Protective clothing, masks and gloves may be worn when building the models. The work environment may be noisy.

Personal qualities and skills

As a model maker, you need:

• Creative, technical and practical skills.
• To visualise objects in three-dimensional form.
• Patience, accuracy, and an ability to meet project deadlines.
• Good communication skills.
• Problem-solving skills.
• An understanding of the different materials you might use.
• Knowledge of design-related software.
• To work well on your own and with others.
• Self-employed model makers will need business and marketing skills.

Pay and opportunities

Pay rates for model makers vary depending on the industry and whether they are employed or self-employed. The pay rates given are approximate. Model makers earn in the range of £19,000 - £31,000. Freelancers are paid per project.

Model makers usually work a basic 43-45-hour week, Monday to Friday. Working hours for self-employed model makers may be irregular, depending on how much work they have. Late finishes and weekend work may be required from time to time, especially as deadlines approach.

Employers are firms in civil engineering, architecture, film and television, shipbuilding, motor car manufacture, and town planning. Opportunities for model makers occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Although some model makers work for an employer, most work on a self-employed, freelance basis, moving from project to project.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service. It’s a good idea to build up a network of relevant contacts, as not all model making jobs are advertised. Making speculative job applications to potential employers can be useful.

Entry routes and training

A common route into this career is via a degree. General three-dimensional design courses may also contain elements of training in model making. Some people get on to degree courses via a Foundation course, HND, HNC or foundation degree. You may not need a higher education qualification to get into this career. Practical skills gained in areas like wood working, electronics and engineering will be useful.

Most of your training will have been before starting work as a model maker. Some people in this career work towards a Diploma in Engineering Woodworking, Pattern and Model Making. Various other work-related courses in practical subjects will also be useful for people in this career.

With experience, some model makers move into supervisory positions. Many become self-employed.

An apprenticeship is in development but not yet available.

Qualifications

To enter a relevant degree, you’ll usually need:

• Two or more A-levels. Art and design, and practical subjects will be useful.
• Four to five GCSEs at grades 9-4. Passes in English and maths are required.
• A pass in a design and technology subject may be useful.

Alternatives to A levels include:

• A BTEC level 3 National diploma.
• An advanced apprenticeship.
• International Baccalaureate (IB ) diploma.

The usual entry requirements for a relevant foundation course are

• One or two A-levels. You’ll need an A-level in art or in an art-based subject.
• GCSEs at grades 9-4 in four or five subjects.

Some courses ask that you have a pass in English. A pass in design and technology (product design) will be useful. Acceptable alternatives to A-levels include:

• BTEC National Diploma in Fine Art, or related course.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.
• An advanced apprenticeship.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Knowledge of the wider industry in which you intend to work, for example, architecture, town planning or civil engineering is useful. Applicants are normally expected to provide a portfolio of work showing creative ability.

Universities and colleges of higher education (HE) will usually consider applications from candidates who don’t meet their usual entry requirements, especially those with experience in crafts, design or technology. You should check the admissions policy of individual universities and HE colleges.

Related careers

• Carpenter/joiner
• Metal engraver
• Product designer
• Patternmaker