Automotive Clay Sculptor / Modeler

Senior Aerodynamic Clay Modeler

Location: Allen Park, MI Schedule: Must be flexible to support multiple shifts, including occasional evenings and weekends based on wind tunnel testing schedules.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Aerodynamic Clay Modeler to support aerodynamic development activities within a world-class automotive wind tunnel environment. This hands-on role is responsible for the fabrication, modification, maintenance, and restoration of clay, composite, and rapid prototype test models used in vehicle aerodynamic testing. The successful candidate will work closely with engineers, designers, and wind tunnel personnel to prepare high-precision aerodynamic models, implement engineering changes, and support test activities throughout the development process. This position requires exceptional craftsmanship, strong problem-solving abilities, and the ability to operate independently while meeting critical testing deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

- Fabricate, modify, and maintain aerodynamic test models utilizing clay, foam, composite materials, rapid prototype components, and fabricated metal parts.
- Perform precision clay modeling and A-surface sculpting to support vehicle aerodynamic development programs.
- Execute vehicle configuration changes including grilles, mirrors, spoilers, underbody components, wheel and tire packages, and other aerodynamic features.
- Prepare and finish rapid prototype components for testing, including assembly, fitment, and surface refinement.
- Operate clay milling equipment and CNC machinery to support prototype development and aerodynamic model preparation.
- Support active wind tunnel testing by implementing engineering changes and modifications on tight timelines.
- Perform digital scanning and documentation of model surfaces using advanced scanning technologies.
- Compare scanned data to CAD geometry and assist with model validation activities.
- Interpret engineering requests, test plans, modification instructions, and CAD references to ensure accurate model execution.
- Collaborate with design engineers, program engineers, and wind tunnel operators to achieve testing objectives and schedule requirements.
- Maintain strict adherence to safety procedures, quality standards, confidentiality requirements, and security protocols.
- Support pre-test, active test, and post-test activities while ensuring model integrity and test readiness.

Required Qualifications

- Minimum 5 years of automotive clay modeling experience , including aerodynamic surface development and A-surface refinement.
- Demonstrated experience supporting vehicle prototype development and aerodynamic testing programs.
- Strong hands-on experience working with: Clay modeling and sculpting
- Clay milling equipment
- CNC machining operations
- Rapid prototyping and 3D printing technologies
- Prototype fabrication and assembly

- Ability to read and interpret CAD data, engineering drawings, modification requests, and test instructions.
- Experience making vehicle part changes and fabricating prototype components from materials such as clay, foam core, aluminum, composites, and other model-building materials.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to work effectively under compressed schedules.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across engineering, design, and testing teams.
- High attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality precision surfaces.

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience using digital scanning technologies, laser tracking systems, or photogrammetry tools.
- Ability to review and manipulate CAD data and create simple geometry modifications.
- Experience operating CNC laser, plasma, or milling equipment.
- Familiarity with G-Code programming.
- Experience comparing scan data to CAD models using inspection software.
- Prior experience supporting automotive wind tunnel testing environments.

Additional Requirements

- Must possess a professional set of clay modeling tools.
- Ability to complete all required safety training, including Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and lockout/tagout procedures.
- Demonstrated commitment to maintaining prototype confidentiality and security requirements.
- Willingness to work flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends, as required by testing programs.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Allen Park, MI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $50.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully remote position.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026. About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without
regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,
sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected
by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or
adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,
please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the
city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants
with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a
condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law
shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,
including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications
and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you
acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.