Senior Modelmaker, Model Shop

Company Description

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER. It’s our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.

The Opportunity

We are excited to announce an open position within our El Segundo Model Shop, where you will have the opportunity to express your creativity and craftsmanship across some of the most famous toy brands in the world. We would love for you to join our team in developing early concept prototypes and contributing to all aspects of the prototyping process for Barbie, Hot Wheels, Action Figures, and more!

This role encompasses all stages of the model-making process, including early concept mechanism development, a variety of digital and traditional fabrication methods, and applying the finishing touches that bring the models to life.

If you take pride in your craft, enjoy collaborating with a dynamic team, and feel inspired by the challenge of creating innovative solutions, we would love to have you apply!

Job Description

What Your Impact Will Be: 

• Lead medium complexity model making projects and prototype development with mechanical features working from various sources including one or more of the following: drawings, 3D files, sketches, and verbal instructions.
• Receive direction from Leads and partners with D&D teams on projects.
• Assist in ideation and invention on projects when appropriate.
• Act as a collaboration partner with cross-functional teams in Design, Engineering, Electronics, Materials, and Marketing.
• Support modelmaking for meetings, trade shows & testing (including onsite).
• Cross-train to increase skillset and knowledge.
• Adhere to safe working practices.
• Support maintenance of work areas and equipment.
• Support other functional areas as needed.
• Is accountable for project time and reporting through our work order system.
• Make recommendations for ongoing improvements related to process and safety.

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For:

Functional Knowledge

• Proficient in the use of shop machinery i.e., mill, drill press, lathe, grinder, table saw, band saw, etc.
• Ability to create functional models with medium complexity mechanisms.
• Must have a strong aesthetic sense of color, form and detail.
• Can use a variety of fabrication tools to make patterns out of various materials, including wood, plastic, metal, foams and composites.
• Strong understanding of model making practices for consumer products or toys, including design for manufacturing principles.
• Working understanding of specialized processes i.e., roto-molding, mold making, casting, color matching, painting, scanning, laser cutting, CNC, 3DP, etc.
• Experience with 3D CAD applications i.e., Creo, SolidWorks, Rhino, Freeform, ZBrush, Alias, etc.
• Utilization of applications i.e., Outlook, Teams, Zoom, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Illustrator, Photoshop, etc. preferred.
• Understanding engineering and manufacturing requirements.

Education/Experience

• Completion of a certified apprenticeship program.
• College or trade school plus work experience as a Modelmaker for consumer products or toys.
• Work experience as a Modelmaker for consumer products or toys with demonstrable advancement of skills and responsibilities.
• Machine shop experience preferred (mill, lathe, grinder operation qualified).
• Demonstrated a growth mindset by staying curious and continuously learning, embracing challenges, and improving themselves.

The base hourly rate for this position is between $32,80 and $41,00.
**This range is indicative of projected hiring range, however base hourly rate will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills and experience. Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.

Additional Information

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Mattel, we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right ca