What is a 3d designer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
3 min read

3D designers create three-dimensional models, animations, and visual effects to be used in various creative projects such as films, video games, and advertising campaigns. This occupation involves creating special effects to match specific briefs using a combination of hand-drawing techniques and computer software.

3D designers create graphics and animations, research upcoming projects, conceptualize designs, edit effects after feedback, and meet with clients to discuss any changes and ideas. 3D designers should have an aptitude for art and creativity and be skilled in using different and emerging computer software. Educational requirements include a bachelor's degree in graphic design, computer sciences, or a similar field.

The average salary for a 3D designer is $21.82, which amounts to $54,255 annually. The career is expected to grow in the near future which will result in new opportunities emerging all over the United States.

Score3D DesignerUS Average
Salary
5.1

Avg. Salary $65,066

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level
4.2

Growth Rate 3%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity
4.5
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.37%

Asian 10.42%

Black or African American 3.42%

Hispanic or Latino 10.63%

Unknown 4.99%

White 70.17%

Gender

female 15.56%

male 84.44%

Age - 37
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 37
Stress Level
4.2

Stress level is moderate

7.1 - high

Complexity Level
8.5

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance
3.9

Work Life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

3D Designer career paths

Key steps to become a 3d designer

  1. Explore 3d designer education requirements

    Most common 3d designer degrees

    Bachelor's

    63.6 %

    Associate

    23.6 %

    Master's

    5.8 %
  2. Start to develop specific 3d designer skills

    Skills
    ascdesc
    Percentages
    ascdesc
    Sketch10.06%
    Animation9.76%
    Maya6.84%
    Visualization5.76%
    Revit5.05%
  3. Complete relevant 3d designer training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New 3d designers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a 3d designer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real 3d designer resumes.
  4. Research 3d designer duties and responsibilities

    • Modify SRV-1 source code using JavaScript software to attain tracking at any instantaneous time.
    • Design some jobs using Autodesk.
    • Create conceptual layouts for project visualization.
    • Convert 2D image sketch to 3D model.
  5. Prepare your 3d designer resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your 3d designer resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a 3d designer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable 3D Designer Resume templates

    Build a professional 3D Designer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your 3D Designer resume.
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    3D Designer Resume
    3D Designer Resume
    3D Designer Resume
    3D Designer Resume
    3D Designer Resume
  6. Apply for 3d designer jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a 3d designer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First 3D Designer Job

Zippi

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Average 3d designer salary

The average 3D Designer salary in the United States is $65,066 per year or $31 per hour. 3d designer salaries range between $42,000 and $100,000 per year.

Average 3D Designer Salary
$65,066 Yearly
$31.28 hourly

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How do 3d designers rate their job?

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3D Designer reviews

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A zippia user wrote a review on Dec 2019
Pros

It is something I enjoy! Something I’m good at! Something I could do as hobby and get paid for

Cons

That I don’t get to do it more often


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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