Job Description

Welcome to the Kalahari Experience

At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don’t just create vacations—we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African-inspired resorts offer world-class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting-edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.

Kalahari Manufacturing is a division of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions that serves as our theming company. The “Kalahari Theme Shop” - located next to our corporate headquarters in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin - is essential to our success and what helps our brand stand out. Our 20,000 square foot complex houses a variety of modern technology pieces. The fully commercial metal shop is equipped with all the resources needed for our artists to create all our scenic needs. It also includes a full carpentry shop, 3-D modeling computer workstations, a foam cutting and carving station featuring laser engraving capabilities, a full paint shop, modern welding machinery, comprehensive vinyl fabrication equipment, and a UL-certified sign shop.

But we’re more than a resort. As a major employer, we provide thousands of jobs and career growth opportunities while delivering exceptional service. Our associates take care of millions of guests each year, making every visit special.

Beyond our walls, we’re making a difference. Through our partnership with charity: water, we’re committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.

Model Maker

We invite you to apply for our open Model Maker position. In this role, you’ll literally shape the future of our waterpark resort experiences. This position is ideal for someone who thrives on bringing large-scale concepts to life in miniature form. You will create physical scale models that communicate design intent, aid in planning, and inspire internal teams and stakeholders as we develop themed attractions, resort features, and immersive environments.

With this position, we do require a background of:

• Proven experience in model making, set design, themed entertainment, or architectural modeling.
• Strong understanding of scale, proportion, and visual storytelling through physical form.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, 3D models, and design documents.
• Skilled in handcrafting and using fabrication equipment and software (e.g., Rhino, SketchUp, Fusion 360, AutoCAD).
• Detail-oriented with a strong sense of aesthetics and thematic cohesion.
• Ability to manage time effectively and handle multiple projects with overlapping deadlines.

We would prefer you have these skills:

• Experience with theming for resorts, theme parks, or experiential design projects.
• Background in industrial design, theatrical set building, or scenic fabrication.
• Familiarity with themed storytelling elements, including color theory and environmental design.
• Knowledge of waterproofing, outdoor materials, and weather-resistant model construction is a plus.

What You’ll Do

• Construct detailed and visually compelling scale models of waterpark features, resort layouts, slides, themed environments, and interactive zones.
• Translate conceptual drawings, storyboards, and CAD files into 3D physical representations.
• Work closely with designers, architects, engineers, and theming artists to capture the creative vision and technical requirements.
• Select and manipulate materials including foam, plastics, wood, resin, and 3D printed components.
• Apply finishing touches such as painting, texturing, landscaping, and lighting to enhance realism.
• Use traditional fabrication tools alongside digital equipment (laser cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers).
• Maintain model shop tools and materials, ensuring a safe and organized workspace.
• Participate in design meetings and present models for feedback and decision-making.

Company Mission

We promise to deliver products and services beyond expectations.

Recruiting Vision

We understand that the individual is the most important element in the recruitment process. In mirroring the spirit of the brand, we promise authenticity, curiosity, honesty, timeliness, and follow-through. Whether a current opening exists or not, relationship building is critical to the success of our company.

A Sampling of Our Benefits

Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Career growth opportunities with promotion from within
• 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation
• Health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates
• Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts
• Education assistance programs to help advance your career

Be Part of Something Extraordinary

At Kalahari, we’re proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Midsize Employers and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park. These awards reflect our commitment to both our guests and team members.

Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you’re delivering incredible guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.

Current locations include Wisconsin Dells, WI (2000), Sandusky, OH (2005), Pocono Manor, PA (2015), Round Rock, TX (2020), and Spotsylvania County, VA (2026).

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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