{"schemaVersion":"1.0","exportedAt":"2026-05-15T12:39:51.150Z","occupation":{"soc":"51-4061.00","title":"Model Makers, Metal and Plastic","group":"Production","sector":"31-33","jobZone":3,"jobZoneInferred":false},"framework":{"version":"v.26.05","description":"","contextCovered":"This framework covers metal and plastic model-making competencies practiced in production machine shops and prototype fabrication environments, spanning manual and CNC machining, precision inspection, and engineering drawing interpretation calibrated to Job Zone 3 preparation.","levels":{"emerging":{"label":"Emerging","statements":["Blueprints and technical sketches — read and interpret under direct supervision to identify basic material dimensions and part geometry in a model-making shop.","Hand tools such as files, mallets, and snips — select and use following step-by-step instruction to cut and shape metal or plastic stock on a supervised production floor.","Lathes and drill presses — operate under close guidance to perform single-step machining tasks on prototype blanks in a vocational or entry-level shop setting.","Precision measuring instruments such as calipers and micrometers — apply under supervision to verify basic dimensional tolerances on finished model parts.","Holes for fasteners — drill and countersink in pre-marked assemblies using power tools under direct technician oversight in a fabrication environment.","Material dimensions and operation sequences — identify from drawings with guidance to prepare work orders before beginning a model fabrication task.","CNC machine interfaces — navigate and load pre-written programs under trainer direction to produce simple model components on a shop floor.","Grinding and sanding procedures — follow prescribed steps to bring metal or plastic parts to specified surface finish under supervision in a finishing area.","Safety protocols and personal protective equipment — apply consistently while operating machinery in compliance with shop safety standards.","Quality defects and dimensional nonconformances — recognize and report to a senior model maker during routine inspection of fabricated prototype parts."]},"developing":{"label":"Developing","statements":["Blueprints, sketches, and 3-D drawings — analyze independently to determine material stock sizes, tooling requirements, and machining sequences for multi-step prototype jobs.","Lathes, bandsaws, and punch presses — set up and operate with reduced oversight to fabricate metal and plastic model components to drawing specifications in a production shop.","CNC programs for standard part geometries — write and edit using CAM software to machine model parts efficiently on a shop CNC mill or lathe.","Precision measuring instruments and circuit testers — apply routinely to inspect finished model parts and assemblies against dimensional and functional specifications.","Metal stock — cut, shape, and form using power saws, power brakes, and shears to produce prototype components within specified tolerances on a production floor.","Rework operations on out-of-tolerance components — perform using files, grinders, and hand tools to bring model parts into conformance with engineering requirements.","Hole patterns and reamed bores — produce in multi-part assemblies using layout tools and power drilling equipment to achieve correct fit for fasteners and pins.","Equipment selection decisions — make independently by matching cutting tool type and machine capability to material properties and part complexity for routine prototype tasks.","Spreadsheet and office suite software — use to document material usage, machining parameters, and inspection results for ongoing prototype projects.","Machining anomalies and tool wear — monitor during production runs and make corrective adjustments to feeds, speeds, or tooling to maintain part quality."]},"proficient":{"label":"Proficient","statements":["Complex blueprints and engineering drawings — interpret autonomously across full project scope to plan complete fabrication sequences for multi-component metal and plastic models.","Full machine shop equipment including lathes, milling machines, and bandsaws — set up, operate, and troubleshoot across diverse prototype projects without supervisory oversight.","CNC toolpaths and machining strategies — develop using advanced CAM software features to optimize cycle time and surface quality for intricate prototype model parts.","Comprehensive dimensional and functional inspection — conduct using precision instruments, gauges, and circuit testers to validate prototype assemblies against engineering specifications.","Non-routine fabrication challenges such as exotic alloys or complex geometries — resolve by applying mechanical knowledge, deductive reasoning, and creative tool selection in a model-making environment.","Rework and design-deviation analysis — lead for failed or nonconforming model parts, determining root cause and implementing corrective machining strategies to restore conformance.","CAD software models and engineering datasets — reference and cross-check against physical prototypes to ensure dimensional fidelity throughout the fabrication and finishing process.","Time management across concurrent prototype jobs — apply to schedule machining operations, material procurement, and inspection milestones to meet engineering program deadlines.","Finishing operations including precision grinding, filing, and surface treatment — execute to exacting tolerances on final prototype assemblies delivered to engineering review teams.","Judgment on material substitutions and process deviations — exercise independently when specified stock or tooling is unavailable, documenting decisions in accordance with quality standards."]},"advanced":{"label":"Advanced","statements":["Shop-wide fabrication standards and best practices — establish and document to guide model-making operations and ensure consistent prototype quality across all projects and personnel.","Junior and mid-level model makers — mentor and coach in blueprint interpretation, machine setup, and precision measurement within a structured apprenticeship or on-the-job training program.","CNC programming workflows and CAM technology adoption — lead by evaluating new software tools and integrating them into shop operations to advance throughput and part complexity capability.","Quality control systems for prototype model fabrication — design and implement, defining inspection criteria, measurement plans, and nonconformance disposition processes at an organizational level.","Cross-functional collaboration with design engineers and product teams — facilitate by translating complex engineering requirements into actionable fabrication plans for high-stakes prototype programs.","Capital equipment selection and machine procurement decisions — drive by assessing production needs, evaluating vendor capabilities, and specifying machine requirements for model-making operations.","Continuous improvement initiatives targeting scrap reduction and cycle time — lead using data from machining logs and inspection records to optimize processes across the model shop.","Safety culture and compliance programs — champion by developing procedures, conducting audits, and ensuring all shop personnel adhere to OSHA and facility safety requirements.","Strategic workload planning and resource allocation — direct across multiple concurrent prototype programs, balancing personnel skills, machine capacity, and customer delivery commitments.","Organizational knowledge transfer and technical documentation — oversee by ensuring that machining parameters, tooling libraries, and process recipes are systematically captured for institutional continuity."]}}},"sources":{"onet":"v30.2 (CC BY 4.0)","crosswalk":"https://skillscrosswalk.com","generator":"LER.me"},"attribution":"© EBSCOed"}