Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Position: Model Maker

Reports to: Director of Automation & Technology Solutions

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Our Purpose: Making It Better Together … We believe in building lifelong partnerships, providing high performing equipment and value-added solutions. We empower and trust our employees to take initiative and make decisions that drive our business forward. We strive to make a positive impact on the world around us.

Position Summary: This role is ideal for a hands-on fabricator with deep expertise in manual and CNC machining, welding, and prototype fabrication. The Model Maker will play a critical role in transforming design concepts into physical prototypes that support product testing, validation, and iteration.

Model Maker Key Responsibilities:

Prototype Fabrication:

• Operate and maintain CNC mills, lathes, manual mills/lathes, and other shop equipment.
• Perform welding, sheet metal bending, and finishing operations to create high-quality prototypes.
• Select appropriate materials and fabrication methods based on design requirements.
• Maintain machine shop tools and equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with designers, engineers, and test teams to interpret drawings and CAD models.
• Provide feedback on design for manufacturability (DFM) and suggest improvements during early development stages.
• Communicate status updates, timelines, and completion of work clearly and proactively to stakeholders.

Model Assembly & Testing:

• Assemble mechanical components and systems for functional testing.
• Support iterative development by modifying and refining prototypes based on test results and team input.

Documentation & Quality:

• Maintain accurate records of builds, materials, and processes.
• Ensure all models meet tolerance, fit, and finish standards as specified by engineering.

Organization & Workflow Management:

• Track and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace.
• Use basic project tracking tools or logs to monitor progress and ensure timely delivery.
• Ability to spec and define equipment needed for future growth of the R&D shop.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Model Maker Competencies:

Machining Expertise:

• Proficient in manual and CNC machining (setup, operation, and troubleshooting).
• Skilled in welding, metal forming, and fabrication techniques.

Technical Literacy:

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and CAD files.
• Familiarity with CAM software and basic 3D modeling (e.g., Fusion 360, SolidWorks) is a plus.
• Ability to read basic electrical schematics, perform basic wiring, and familiarity with controls preferred, but not required.

Organizational Skills:

• Strong ability to track progress, manage priorities, and communicate timelines.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on efficiency and accountability.

Problem Solving:

• Strong mechanical intuition and ability to troubleshoot fabrication challenges.
• Creative and resourceful in developing solutions with limited information or time.

Teamwork & Communication:

• Collaborative mindset with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, iterative development environment.

Other Duties : Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Work environment: CMD is located in Appleton, WI. Our three facilities operate by secure entry, are well lit, air temperature controlled for comfort, and clean with low noise. Safety is our top priority. Our culture is centered around mutual respect, clarity of communication, and employee wellbeing.

Physical Demands:

• Physical movement is required to inspect, touch, bend, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch or twist in the capital equipment manufacturing process.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements.
• Ability to navigate manufacturing floor environment, which may include walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods.
• Capacity to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, ear protection, and hard hat as needed.
• Ability to tolerate exposure to moderate levels of noise, vibration, and varying temperatures in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to follow health and safety guidelines and protocols including emergency procedures.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. unassisted.
• Regular, predictable attendance is required.

Status: Full-time, nonexempt.

Travel: None

Model Maker Education and Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in a model shop, machine shop, or prototyping lab.
• Technical certification or associate degree in machining, manufacturing technology, or related field.
• Experience in product development or R&D environments is highly desirable.

Additional Requirements:

Work Authorization/Security Clearance/Confidentiality: Must be authorized to work in the United States and adhere to CMD’s confidentiality agreement(s).

EEO statement: CMD Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, parental status, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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