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What is a 3d modeler and how to become one
3D modelers are artists. They work in film and video production studios, game design organizations, graphic and advertising firms, web design firms, software companies, architecture firms, college and universities, product design firms, or manufacturing firms. They may even work in aerospace or for auto companies, retail firms, crime labs, or interior design firms. Essentially, there is no limit to where they can work.
3D modelers must have high computer and math skills. They may also need to be familiar with film or gaming, have creative and design skills, and a strong background in the field where they choose to work. A 3D modeler works as part of a larger design team. They are considered a multimedia artist and animator. Their salary ranges from $79,000 to $124,000.
Avg. Salary $75,946
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth Rate 5%
Growth Rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.82%
Asian 7.63%
Black or African American 4.32%
Hispanic or Latino 14.16%
Unknown 5.85%
White 67.21%
Genderfemale 18.56%
male 81.44%
Age - 39American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 39Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is advanced
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is poor
6.4 - fair
3D Modeler career paths
Key steps to become a 3d modeler
Explore 3d modeler education requirements
Start to develop specific 3d modeler skills
Skills 
Percentages Animation 10.14% Adobe Photoshop 7.40% Visualization 7.21% Texture 5.67% UV 5.34% Complete relevant 3d modeler training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New 3d modelers 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 modeler based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real 3d modeler resumes.Research 3d modeler duties and responsibilities
- Manage design collaboration and storyboard creations.
- Partner with clients and a team of engineers to create detail and effective, multimedia training and sales aids.
- Lead FX artist in creation, development, and implementation of particle flow and rigid body simulations to production pipeline.
- Establish project direction and concepts, develop character designs and storyboards, and coordinate art assets from the project team.
Prepare your 3d modeler resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your 3d modeler 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 modeler 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 Modeler Resume templates
Build a professional 3D Modeler 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 Modeler resume.
Apply for 3d modeler jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a 3d modeler job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How Did You Land Your First 3D Modeler Job
Ehsan Davaji
3D Modeler
I remember beginning my journey with Autodesk Maya. At that time, I didn't have access to a fast internet connection, making it difficult to learn through YouTube and other online resources. So, in 2010 or 2011, I bought a few Maya tutorial packages on CDs and DVDs. It was incredibly enjoyable as I became familiar with the software. These tutorials introduced me to 3D modeling and a bit of animation.
In my hometown, there were no job opportunities in the 3D animation industry because no local studios existed. I had no idea how to start my career or make a living from it, and there was no one around me who worked in 3D. I knew nothing about landing a job, freelancing, or any of that.
When I was about 18, I had to fulfill my mandatory military service, which lasted two years. During this time, I was completely disconnected from the 3D world, and it was quite disappointing.
A few years later, I managed to save enough money to buy a workstation and started freelancing. Now, about ten years later, I can look back on my journey with its many ups and downs, good days and bad days, and see it as a cherished memory. Sometimes I regret not enjoying the journey more and not taking it as seriously as I could have.
Jose Garcia
3D Modeler
I bet you there are art school students who still have a massive school loan they got to pay off.
If I knew then what I know now, I would have never gone to art school.
Well to answer your question. I practiced a lot, looked at other people's work and approach.
I learned more on Youtube and on my own than I did in school.
My work has improved a lot in the last couple of years.
I follow several youtubers who work in the field of 3d, traditional art and animation.
Aaron Blaise was probably the one that was more inspirational to me. (Not taking away from other
youtubers)
This guy is a true artist. He's not one of these dudes that just draws anime girls and that's all they do.
He is an animator, character designer,illustrator, and traditional artist. There are also places online where
you can buy courses for affordable prices from people who work in the industry. However, those courses will
not do you any good if you don't practice what you learn from them.
When I got out of school my work wasn't to the level that I had hoped. I
went into architecture a while after I graduated from "Art School".
I got a masters in that field, but still didn't feel like it was something I wanted to do
for the rest of my life. I did it for 10 yrs. But in those 10 years I still went back
to art. I kept using 3DS Max, Mudbox and some Zbrush. But my strength is 3DS Max.
I kept up with the 3d technology. I got better at 3ds Max, Vray, Corona Render, photoshop
and other software. At the same time I started leaning towards the 3D aspect of architecture.
I did 3d Arch viz for a while. That part I did like. I'm alway looking at what is new out there.
The 3D field is alway changing. In these last few months I've been dabbling in Unreal Engine
and have got deep into digital illustration.
I guess the short answer is, practice your art. Don't give up. If you start thinking you are the best at what you do, then you probably suck.
And please stay away from AI imaging. I hope people stop referring to AI image generators as art. As a matter of fact AI and art should
never be used in the same sentence unless you're trying to make a case against AI image generators.
Average 3d modeler salary
The average 3D Modeler salary in the United States is $75,946 per year or $37 per hour. 3d modeler salaries range between $50,000 and $114,000 per year.
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Updated January 8, 2025
