Lead Prototype Model Maker — Craft High‑Impact Prototypes

Vax; Droitwich Spa; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Vax is seeking a Lead Model Maker to drive the development of appearance models and functional demonstrators across the innovation process. You will transform concepts into tangible prototypes, working closely with Industrial Design, Design Research, Advanced Development and Engineering.

You will blend traditional craftsmanship with modern prototyping technologies to deliver world-class representations of future products, applying finishing, paint, and cosmetic detailing while upholding safety

Qualifications

• Degree, HND, apprenticeship or equivalent experience in Model Making, Manufacturing, Product Design, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience creating appearance models, prototypes and demonstrators within a product development environment.
• Strong understanding of model making materials, fabrication methods and finishing techniques.
• Experience producing presentation‑quality models, including painting, spraying and cosmetic finishing.
• Strong workshop capability including conventional machining, fabrication and assembly.
• Proven CNC & CAM experience including setup, programming and operation.
• Experience with additive manufacturing technologies such as, FDM, MJF, SLS, SLA and PolyJet.
• Familiarity with laser cutting and other advanced prototyping technologies.
• Strong understanding of workshop safety, equipment maintenance and good workshop practices.
• Excellent craftsmanship, attention to detail and practical problem‑solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Create appearance models, ergonomic studies, functional prototypes and demonstrator builds that support innovation and product development activities.
• Translate Industrial Design concepts into physical models that accurately communicate design intent.
• Produce presentation‑quality models using a wide range of fabrication, assembly and finishing techniques.
• Apply finishing processes including preparation, painting, spraying, colour matching and cosmetic detailing.
• Support design reviews, consumer evaluations and executive presentations through exceptional model quality and craftsmanship.
• Develop proof of principle and functional demonstrators to evaluate user interactions and experiences.
• Utilise a broad range of fabrication technologies including manual machining, CNC machining, additive manufacturing and laser cutting.
• Co‑own the workshop and prototyping facilities alongside the Front‑End Innovation Engineer, supporting standards, maintenance, tools, consumables and best practices.
• Deliver inductions and support safe working practices across the facility.
• Identify opportunities to improve prototyping capability, processes and model quality.

Skills

Appearance models

Prototyping

CNC CAM

3D printing

Workshop safety

Team collaboration

Craftsmanship

Education

Degree or equivalent

Apprenticeship

Tools

CNC machines

Laser cutting

Additive manufacturing

Painting & finishing tools

Job description

Vax is seeking a Lead Model Maker to drive the development of appearance models and functional demonstrators across the innovation process. You will transform concepts into tangible prototypes, working closely with Industrial Design, Design Research, Advanced Development and Engineering.

You will blend traditional craftsmanship with modern prototyping technologies to deliver world-class representations of future products, applying finishing, paint, and cosmetic detailing while upholding safety