Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
•   Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
•   Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Working Life

Model makers make models for testing protypes of new products such as cars, or for testing planes in wind tunnels, incorporating engineering and electronics. Models can be used in television, films and advertising. Models are also used in museums and exhibitions such as artefacts or when reproducing historical events. Designers need to see or test their design before a decision is made to spend money and time on its production.  
 
If a model shows it does not serve the purpose for which it is designed, this can save its producers a lot of money. Another reason to use models is that non-technical people understand them more easily than complicated technical diagrams. Model making is sometimes called design representation.  
 
After talking to the designer, model makers work from design drawings, plans, photographs or computer graphics. They use materials like wood, plastic, metal, plaster, paper or card to produce models. Machine and hand tools are used to shape the materials. For models with moving parts, basic electronics or mechanical techniques may be used. Painting may also be necessary.  
 
A model can be scaled up or down depending upon what it represents and its purpose. A planned motorway flyover system, for example, will be greatly scaled down, whereas a newly discovered molecular structure will be scaled up. Intricate models may take many months to complete.  
 
Models are also used to create special effects in films, television, theatre and in certain types of exhibition.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Study blueprints, drawings, and sketches to determine material dimensions, required equipment, and operations sequences.
• Inspect and test products to verify conformance to specifications, using precision measuring instruments or circuit testers.
• Drill, countersink, and ream holes in parts and assemblies for bolts, screws, and other fasteners, using power tools.
• Cut, shape, and form metal parts, using lathes, power saws, snips, power brakes and shears, files, and mallets.
• Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, drill presses, punch presses, or bandsaws, to fabricate prototypes or models.
• Devise and construct tools, dies, molds, jigs, and fixtures, or modify existing tools and equipment.
• Rework or alter component model or parts as required to ensure that products meet standards.
• Grind, file, and sand parts to finished dimensions.
• Program computer numerical control (CNC) machines to fabricate model parts.
• Lay out and mark reference points and dimensions on materials, using measuring instruments and drawing or scribing tools.

Further Information

• Model Maker- from: N.C.S. [UK]

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

 Creative

Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.

Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

A background or training in art and architecture is beneficial for a career as a Model Maker. There are a number of courses available in the I.T.s and colleges that train students in the necessary skills.

In Ireland, to become an architect you must first get a degree from a recognised school of architecture, followed by two years of approved practical experience and successfully pass an accredited professional practice examination. Accredited professional practice examinations are currently provided around Ireland.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: architectural design, technology, pre-university architecture, interior architecture and design, architectural 3D modelling, BIM, revit.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: architectural design, technology, pre-university architecture, interior architecture and design, architectural 3D modelling, BIM, revit.

Search for PLC Courses

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: architecture, architectural technology, interior architecture and design, building information modelling, BIM with revit.

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: architectural design and practice, BIM, construction project management, BIM and lean construction management, BIM management, building information modelling, BIM technologies, revit, 4D BIM.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Recognised degree courses in architecture take five years of full-time study. Many students take a year out for practical experience between the third and fourth years. Achieving full professional qualification as an architect can therefore take seven to nine years.

Five-year degree programmes may be split into a three-year course followed by a two-year course, or a four-year course followed by a one-year course. Graduates of the initial three-year or four-year Architecture courses are eligible for RIAI student membership.

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

On completion of your 5 year qualification in architecture with a recognised college, you are eligible for architectural graduate membership of the RIAI Accredited RIAI Training

Once you have achieved a minimum of two years approved post graduate experience you can take a professional practice examination provided by TU Dublin or UCD. On passing your professional practice examination you become eligible to apply for admission to the Register for Architects and full membership of the RIAI. RIAI Accreditation is recognised by the Irish Government and EU legislation. You can explore ongoing CPD for continuous professional development in your career.

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €17k - €55k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
CPL / Morgan McKinley/ Sigmar / Prosperity.ie

Last Updated: July, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Architects; Town planners; Quantity surveyors; Chartered surveyors; Chartered architectural technologists.    

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

The annual average employment growth was above average for this occupation, although employment levels declined marginally between 2021 and 2022. New employment permits issued in 2022 related to quantity surveyors and issues with recruitment of quantity surveyors were also evident in both the Skills for Growth and Recruitment Agency Survey data.

The supply of quantity surveyors has increased since 2016, with 336 awards in 2021 in higher education. The demand for these skills is expected to be sustained in the coming years, although the tasks may be incorporated into other occupations e.g. structural engineer. With supply increasing, issues with recruitment may lessen in future years. Demand for architects and town planners is likely to continue, although the data does not currently point to issues in relation to sourcing suitably qualified personnel for these roles. 

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