Model Making Intern

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:

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.

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KPF is an equal opportunity employer.