More information from O*NET OnLine:

Model Makers, Metal and Plastic - 51-4061.00

O*NET-SOC Description

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, milling and engraving machines, and jig borers to make working models of metal or plastic objects. Includes template makers.

Sample of Reported Job Titles

Metal Model Maker
Model Builder
Model Maker

Molding Technician
Pattern Finisher
Prototype Special Build

SOC Occupation Groups

51-0000	Production Occupations
51-4000	Metal Workers and Plastic Workers
51-4060	Model Makers and Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
51-4061.00	Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

Related Occupations

49-9041.00	Industrial Machinery Mechanics Bright Outlook
51-2022.00	Electrical and Electronic Equipment Assemblers
51-2031.00	Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
51-2041.00	Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
51-4041.00	Machinists
51-4062.00	Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
51-4111.00	Tool and Die Makers
51-4192.00	Layout Workers, Metal and Plastic
51-7031.00	Model Makers, Wood
51-9195.00	Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic

Tasks

Align, fit, and join parts, using bolts and screws or by welding or gluing.
Assemble mechanical, electrical, and electronic components into models or prototypes, using hand tools, power tools, and fabricating machines.
Consult and confer with engineering personnel to discuss developmental problems and to recommend product modifications.
Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.
Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.
Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.
Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
Record specifications, production operations, and final dimensions of models for use in establishing operating standards and procedures.
Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.
Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
Use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software or hardware to fabricate model parts.
Wire and solder electrical and electronic connections and components.

Detailed Work Activities

Align parts or workpieces to ensure proper assembly.
Assemble machine tools, parts, or fixtures.
Assemble metal or plastic parts or products.
Build production molds.
Confer with others to resolve production problems or equipment malfunctions.
Cut industrial materials in preparation for fabrication or processing.
Design tools, fixtures, or other devices for production equipment.
Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.
Drill holes in parts, equipment, or materials.
Inspect metal, plastic, or composite products.
Operate cutting equipment.
Operate grinding equipment.
Operate metal or plastic forming equipment.
Program equipment to perform production tasks.
Read work orders or other instructions to determine product specifications or materials requirements.
Record operational or production data.
Repair parts or assemblies.
Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.
Shape metal workpieces with hammers or other small hand tools.
Smooth metal surfaces or edges.
Solder parts or workpieces.