Job Description
KPF , a global architecture and master planning firm headquartered in New York City, is seeking a Model Making intern to join the KPF Digital Fabrication Team on a six-month year contract basis. This role is centered on high-quality physical model making, Makerspace supervision, and hands-on craft, supporting design teams through the production of detailed architectural models across multiple scales. The position emphasizes material exploration, assembly techniques, and physical representation, with digital fabrication serving as a supporting toolset. We are looking for someone who takes pride in the craft of making - where precision, material understanding, and attention to detail are as important as the final design.
Primary Responsibilities: Project Support - Embed with project teams to help craft, assemble, and deliver high-quality physical models, under the direction of Digital Fabrication and Project leadership, with a focus on delivering museum-quality, high-fidelity results.
- Develop and execute hand-built model making techniques, including cutting sanding, finishing, painting, and detailed assembly
- Advise teams on production planning, material selection, budget forecasting, and assembly methods tailored to each project's scale and design intent.
- Explore and prototype material assemblies, finishes, and detailing techniques to elevate the quality and realism of physical models.
- Proactively identify and communicate potential bottlenecks, material shortages, or scheduling conflicts to Digital Fabrication leadership.
Physical Craft & Model Making - Execute precise hand fabrication techniques across multiple materials (wood, acrylic, foam, resin, etc.)
- Develop clean, durable assemblies and joinery strategies
- Apply finishing techniques to achieve presentation quality results
- Maintain a high standard of craft, accuracy, and consistency
Makerspace Operations - Utilize digital fabrication tools (3D printing, laser cutting, CNC) as needed to support physical model production.
- Support ongoing improvements to fabrication workflows where beneficial to model quality and efficiency
- Demonstrate strong working knowledge of Rhino and Revit as a reference for physical model making.
- Identify and escalate hardware or software issues
- Adhere to and enforce established protocols for equipment use, storage, and safety.
- Organize and maintain the Makerspace; manage inventory of materials and tools, ensuring a safe, efficient, and accessible environment for all KPF staff.
- Enforce safety protocols and best practices for all equipment and material handling.
- Oversee daily operations of Makerspace, leveraging the space for both Digital Fabrication based production, and access to space for project teams.
Content & Knowledge Development - Assist in preparing and delivering office-wide updates, keeping staff informed of new fabrication technologies and model-making capabilities.
- Assist in researching and evaluating emerging fabrication technologies; compile findings and support recommendations for new equipment purchases and workflow enhancements.
Qualifications: Required - Degree in Architecture or related field.
- Strong experience in physical model making and hands-on craft, demonstrated through a portfolio of detailed, high-quality work
- Proven ability to work with hand tools and physical materials at a high level of precision
- Strong working knowledge of Rhinoceros 3D and Revit for file preparation and geometry extraction for fabrication.
- Experience with presentation and graphics software (Adobe Suite) and/or with Microsoft Office / Google Suite and Teams
- Familiarity with DfMA principles and model optimization for fabrication.
- Strong graphic communication skills for presenting fabrication strategies and model-making outcomes.
- High attention to detail, organizational ability, and comfort managing multiple concurrent project demands.
- Ability to multitask across simultaneous project timelines in a fast-paced studio environment.
- Proactive mindset - able to anticipate issues and communicate solutions before they escalate.
Bonus - Exceptional physical craft and model-making ability, including woodworking, assembly, casting, and finishing techniques
- Experience with Professional Model Shop or advanced CNC workflows.
- Experience with woodworking, one-to-one prototyping, or other physical craft
- Prior experience in a professional architecture or design studio model shop.
- Experience with fabrication-oriented software and workflows (e.g., Grasshopper, Fusion 360, Bambu Studio, or equivalent).
Work Environment: This is a six-month internship position requiring you to be in person in our New York office 5 days per week. There is a possibility of an extension based on firm needs.
Pay Range: $22.00 - $25.00 Hourly
Why KPF? KPF's mission is to elevate cities through impactful design, collaborating closely with the world's most forward-thinking clients to create high performing, carefully crafted buildings that are unique to their physical, social, and environmental contexts.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for training, development, and career progression.
- Company Culture: Collaborative, high-performance environment with a focus on innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k with company matching contributions, paid time off and other perks.
To Apply: Applications submitted without a resume will not be considered.
KPF is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Contract work, Work at office