Will “Wood Model Builder” be Replaced By Robots? 🤔

Job Description

Construct full-size and scale wooden precision models of products. Includes wood jig builders and loft workers.

Job Details

• The SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code is 51-7031.00
• The Mean Annual Wage in the U.S. is $ 47,480.00
• The Mean Hourly Wage is $ 22.00
• Currently, there are 1,040 people on this job

☝️ Information based on the reference occupation “Model Makers, Wood”.

Also Known As…

• Model Makers, Wood
• Sample Worker
• Sample Maker
• Sample Builder
• Product Development Carpenter
• Model Maker
• Model Builder
• Craftsman
• Woodworking Craftsman
• Wood Window and Door Craftsman
• Wood Last Maker
• Wood Craftsman
• Production Wood Craftsman
• Product Engineer
• Product Craftsman
• Lofter
• Loft Worker Apprentice
• Loft Worker
• Last Model Maker
• Jig Builder
• CAD Technician (Computer Aided Drafting Technician)
• Architectural Wood Model Maker

Tasks for “Wood Model Builder”

• Read blueprints, drawings, or written specifications, and consult with designers to determine sizes and shapes of patterns and required machine setups.
• Trim, smooth, and shape surfaces, and plane, shave, file, scrape, and sand models to attain specified shapes, using hand tools.
• Construct wooden models, patterns, templates, full scale mock-ups, and molds for parts of products and production tools.
• Select wooden stock, determine layouts, and mark layouts of parts on stock, using precision equipment such as scribers, squares, and protractors.
• Build jigs that can be used as guides for assembling oversized or special types of box shooks.
• Fabricate work aids such as scrapers or templates.
• Plan, lay out, and draw outlines of units, sectional patterns, or full-scale mock-ups of products.
• Set up, operate, and adjust a variety of woodworking machines such as bandsaws and planers to cut and shape sections, parts, and patterns, according to specifications.
• Finish patterns or models with protective or decorative coatings such as shellac, lacquer, or wax.
• Verify dimensions and contours of models during hand-forming processes, using templates and measuring devices.
• Fit, fasten, and assemble wood parts together to form patterns, models, or sections, using glue, nails, dowels, bolts, screws, and other fasteners.
• Issue patterns to designated machine operators.
• Mark identifying information on patterns, parts, and templates to indicate assembly methods and details.
• Maintain pattern records for reference.

Related Technology & Tools

• Protractors
• Table saws
• Bench circular saws
• Engraving tools
• Plunge routers
• Precision bench vises
• Pen sanders
• Power routers
• Heavy duty bench clamps
• Razor saws
• Vertical mills
• Micro planers
• Carving knives
• Mini hammers
• Computer numerically controlled CNC lathes
• Power nailing tools
• Cleaning brushes
• Micro band saws
• Multipurpose screwdrivers
• Precision file sets
• Powered screwdrivers
• Turning tools
• Woodworking jointers
• Adjustable hand reamers
• Scroll saws
• Benchtop disk sanders
• Mini tweezers
• Cordless angle grinders
• Metal rulers
• Sharpening stones
• Wire cutting tools
• Micro mills
• Stereolithography prototyping machines
• Bandsaws
• Cordless power drills
• Scratch awls
• Plank bending tools
• Computer numerically controlled CNC milling machines
• Scribing tools
• Benchtop drill presses
• Woodturning lathes
• Rotary tools
• Belt sanders
• Power sanders
• Variable speed jigsaws
• Needlenose pliers sets

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