Image that illustrates Model builder

Model builder

32 300 kr

Fine, interior and furniture carpenters

31 900 - 32 300 kr / month

Hantverksyrken

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Model builder

Average salary 32 300 kr
Males 32 300 kr
Females 0 kr

What does a Model Builder do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A model builder works with creating physical models in various materials, often as prototypes or scale presentations for architecture, design, industry, or film. Tasks can include interpreting drawings and sketches, working with wood, plastic, metal, or other materials using hand tools and machines. Model builders often collaborate with architects, designers, and engineers, requiring great precision and attention to detail. The work environment is typically workshop-based, emphasizing safety and good ergonomics, but assignments can also be performed on-site with clients or in larger projects.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, salary development for model builders has shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK, which increased to 33 000 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, the salary has been adjusted downward slightly to 32 300 SEK in 2024. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 is about 6.3 %, but the most recent year saw a slight decrease of just over 2 %. This development can be explained by market demand, competition within the profession, and general wage adjustments in the craftsmanship sector. It is not uncommon for wages in skilled trades to fluctuate depending on economic cycles, project volume, and the level of specialization of the individual model builder.

Model Builder Salary – Complete Overview

  • Average Salary: 32 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest/Highest Salary: Data unavailable
  • Hourly Wage: 194 SEK/hour
  • Gender Differences: Only data for men: 32 300 SEK/month
  • Regional Differences: Data unavailable

Education and Qualifications

To work as a model builder, a high school education in craftsmanship is usually required, preferably with a focus on fine carpentry, design, or form creation. Many employers also value practical experience, which can be gained through internships or apprenticeship programs. Specialized courses in material science, 3D modeling, and CAD are advantageous, and some employers may offer internal training depending on the project's nature and complexity.

  • High School Education: Crafts program, specializing in fine carpentry (3 years)
  • Higher Vocational Education: Specialized training in model building and prototype development (1–2 years)
  • Internships: Apprenticeship or practical training during studies recommended
  • Courses: CAD, 3D modeling, and material science
  • Prerequisites: Good sense of form, materials, and precision

Many model builders work on unique projects where each model requires a tailored solution. Creativity and problem-solving skills are therefore just as important as craftsmanship in this profession.

– statsskuld.se

Common Benefits and Compensation

Model builders are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, insurance, and sometimes opportunities for skill development through courses or site visits. Some employers also provide tool allowances, subsidized lunches, or flexible working hours depending on the nature of the projects.

Competition and Challenges

The competition in the profession of model building is considered high, with a national surplus of labor in the fields of fine, interior, and furniture carpentry. The Employment Service’s forecasts indicate limited job opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. Challenges include differentiating oneself through specialized skills, technical breadth, and experience with new materials or digital tools. The industry is also influenced by economic cycles and investments in the construction sector, which can affect the number of available projects and assignments.

Tips for Aspiring Model Builders

To succeed as a model builder, it’s beneficial to combine technical skills with a strong eye for detail. Precision is crucial, so practicing accuracy in both drawing and execution is recommended. Creativity and the ability to think outside the box help when unexpected problems arise during model work. Patience and perseverance are valuable, as some tasks can be time-consuming and require redo. Good communication and teamwork skills are also important, as projects are often developed in dialogue with designers or architects. Taking initiative for further education, such as in CAD or new materials, can strengthen competitiveness. Lastly, a genuine interest in form and materials is key to long-term satisfaction and success in the profession.

Key Facts about Model Builders

  • Educational Level: High school or post-secondary vocational education
  • Work Environment: Workshop, often project-based
  • Occupational Group: Fine, interior, and furniture carpenters
  • Demand: Limited opportunities, national surplus
  • Job Vacancies: 341 within the occupational group (May 2024)

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a model builder can advance to more qualified roles such as project manager for larger model projects or specialize in areas like industrial models, architecture, or film decoration. Some choose to start their own business working on client-specific projects or as consultants. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for fine, interior, and furniture carpenters, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a labor surplus in the job market. This means competition is high, but specialization and technical deepening can improve chances of employment or commissions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Model Builders

  • What does a Model Builder earn?
    - A model builder has an average salary of 32 300 SEK per month.
  • What education is required to become a Model Builder?
    - Most commonly, a high school education in craftsmanship, preferably with a focus on fine carpentry, along with supplementary courses.
  • What is the job market like for Model Builders?
    - There are limited job opportunities and a surplus of labor according to the Employment Service.
  • In what work environments do Model Builders work?
    - Most work in workshop environments, but some projects may require work on site with clients or in production settings.
  • What is the hourly wage for Model Builders?
    - The hourly wage for model builders averages 194 SEK.
  • Are there regional salary differences for Model Builders?
    - Current data on regional salary differences for this profession is lacking.
  • What personal qualities are important for Model Builders?
    - Accuracy, creativity, endurance, and teamwork skills are highly valued.

Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
45-54 30800 kr 31000 kr
Snitt 31900 kr 32300 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Model builder has the SSYK code 7522, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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