Design Model Engineer
Bespoke Models, Replicas & Exhibition Projects
- Bedfordshire, UK | Full-time | Workshop-based
At Model Products Ltd we design and manufacture bespoke scale models, full-size replicas and exhibition assets for clients across defence, aerospace, maritime, motorsport and advanced engineering sectors.
This is not a production-line CAD role. And it’s not purely “head-down model making” either.
We’re looking for somebody who can move confidently between:
- high-level 3D CAD work
- practical engineering problem solving
- and hands-on workshop manufacture
One day you may be interpreting raw client CAD data and redesigning components for manufacture. The next, you may be assembling prototypes, refining printed parts, helping solve a mechanical issue on a working exhibit, or supporting the wider workshop team on delivery of a live project.
The Role
You’ll become part of a small, experienced team producing high-quality bespoke work for exhibitions, demonstrations, marketing and technical presentation purposes.
Projects range from:
- highly detailed scale models
- full-size non-functional replicas
- mechanical demonstrators
- interactive exhibition assets
- conceptual engineering models
- custom one-off builds
You’ll be expected to think independently, solve problems proactively, and help bridge the gap between digital design and physical manufacture.
We’re Looking For Somebody Who:
- Is highly proficient in Solidworks and/or Rhino 3D
- Thinks like an engineer, not just a CAD operator
- Understands how things actually go together in the real world
- Has practical workshop or model making experience
- Understands materials and manufacturing processes
- Can work from incomplete or evolving information
- Is confident taking ownership of tasks and solving problems independently
- Can adapt between CAD work and hands-on making as projects demand
- Has a strong eye for detail, finish and presentation quality
Useful Experience
Experience in some of the following would be highly beneficial:
- 3D printing (FDM/resin)
- CNC or laser cutting workflows
- Model making
- Prototyping
- Mechanical assembly
- Spray finishing or detailing
- Exhibition or display fabrication
- Engineering/product development environments
Important
This role will probably suit somebody who enjoys making things as much as designing them.
We are not looking for a purely academic engineer or a desk-only CAD technician.
Equally, this is not a traditional craft-only model maker role.
The strongest candidates are usually people who naturally combine:
- technical thinking
- creativity
- practical ability
- and initiative
About Us
Model Products Ltd is a long-established family-run business producing bespoke models and replicas for clients throughout the UK and internationally.
Our work combines modern manufacturing technologies with traditional hands-on craftsmanship — often within the same project.
No two projects are quite the same.
Pay: From £34,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
