model-maker/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — model maker

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 51-4061.00 (Model Makers, Metal and Plastic) — manual nearest-occupation mapping via ISCO group 2163; the official ESCO crosswalk has no entry for this ESCO occupation.

Task statements

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

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.