ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

3D Animation Entry Level Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

PULSE STUDIO, LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Scenic & Event Designer / Production Artist 2026

Lisle, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital ... Set Design, Exhibit Design, Tradeshow Design, Product/Prototype Renderings, Animations, Interior ...

All Jobs3D Animation Jobs3D Animation Entry Level Jobs3D Animation Entry Level Jobs in Chicago, IL

3D Animation Entry Level information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.9K

$65.8K

$136.5K

How much do 3d animation entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d animation entry level in Chicago, IL is $65,791.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $64,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level 3d animators when starting out in a studio environment?

Entry-level 3D animators often encounter challenges such as adapting to new software pipelines, meeting tight production deadlines, and collaborating effectively with larger teams. It can also be a learning curve to interpret feedback from senior animators or directors and to ensure their work aligns with the studio’s artistic vision. Building strong communication skills and being open to constructive criticism are essential for growth and success in this collaborative, fast-paced environment.

What is a 3d animation entry level job?

3D Animation Entry Level jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of 3D animation, typically recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles often involve assisting more experienced animators, creating simple animations, modeling objects, or supporting the animation pipeline. Entry-level animators usually work in industries such as film, television, video games, or advertising, and they use software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. These jobs provide valuable on-the-job training and a pathway to more advanced roles in animation.

What is the difference between 3D Animation Entry Level vs 3D Modeler Entry Level?

Aspect3D Animation Entry Level3D Modeler Entry Level
Required SkillsBasic animation principles, software proficiency (Maya, Blender)Modeling techniques, software proficiency (Maya, 3ds Max)
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, gaming, filmDesign studios, gaming, film
Common CertificationsNone required but preferred (e.g., Autodesk certifications)None required but preferred (e.g., Autodesk certifications)

While both roles require proficiency in 3D software and a strong understanding of industry standards, 3D Animation Entry Level focuses on creating movement and storytelling through animation, whereas 3D Modeler Entry Level emphasizes creating detailed 3D models. Both roles often overlap in work environment and skill requirements, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3d animation entry level professional?

To thrive as a 3D Animation Entry Level professional, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, basic modeling, and rendering techniques, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max is typically required, along with a portfolio showcasing your work. Creativity, attention to detail, and good communication skills help you collaborate effectively and bring ideas to life. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality animations that meet project requirements and industry standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of 3D Animation jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to 3D Animation Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL? For 3D Animation Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Animation Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Animation Entry Level jobs in Chicago, IL are:
3D Animation Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Animation Entry Level job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 69% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,791 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Entry Level Scenic & Event Designer / Production Artist 2026

PULSE STUDIO, LLC

Lisle, IL • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Entry-Level Scenic & Event Designer

Pulse Studio LLC is a design previsualization firm based in Lisle, Illinois. Our designs allow clients to experience what their event or product will look and feel like before it’s ever built. We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital assets for the following areas: Set Design, Exhibit Design, Tradeshow Design, Product/Prototype Renderings, Animations, Interior & Exterior Renderings, Mobile Marketing, Graphics & Web design and AR/VR content creation.

Responsibilities

  • Generate creative designs based on project/client needs
  • Produce high quality renderings for events, scenic stage designs, and product launches
  • Take a design idea from conceptual mood boards to final design
  • Model, texture and light all elements involved with the project
  • Understand the varieties of light setups from clean studio renderings to vibrant stage rendering
  • Coordinate with the rest of the project team in the execution of the project/assignments
  • Post-production work for final renderings

Skills and Abilities

  • Proficient in 3D Studio Max (DO NOT APPLY IF YOU DON'T KNOW THIS PROGRAM)
  • Knowledgeable in Unreal (Blueprints/Programming/Coding not required but is a plus)
  • Can create custom textures and materials for use in models
  • Can dynamically light a scene
  • Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud, specifically Photoshop & Illustrator
  • Proficiency in Office 365 (Word, Excel and Outlook)
  • Ability to effectively meet deadlines
  • Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing
  • Ability to work in team environment

Qualifications

  • Work experience in Event Design, Trade Show Design, Theater or Architecture is a huge plus.
  • Any programming, C++, or HTML5 experience is not required but is a plus.
  • After Effects for motion graphics creation experience is not required but is a plus.
  • Knowledge of fabrication and tradeshow extrusion systems is not required but is a plus.

Please include a link to your portfolio with your application to be considered. (THIS IS MANDATORY. We need to see what level your skills are at.)

Pulse Studio is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We support diversity in the workforce.

Job Location - Lisle, Illinois. Ideally you work in our studio but will have flexibility with some days being remote.

Position Type - Contract to start (Hourly) / After 3 months Full Time is possible (Salary)

Our industry is fast paced with quick turnarounds. Our work varies from day to day, occasionally we work late to meet our clients’ expectations. Benefits include medical insurance, 401k with employer match, paid holidays, and vacation time.

Company Description

Pulse Studio got our start creating successful branded corporate events, trade-shows and exhibits. We are passionate about creating branded experiential designs from the overall physical experience down to the content you see on each screen. With our backgrounds in architecture, engineering, film and animation we were able to take our clients ideas and turn them into beautiful designs visualized in 3d. This is all created with fresh modern designs while always working with our clients to make sure we are embodying the message and story they want to tell.

Pulse serves as an extension of your design department. We work with our clients and their brand guidelines to create beautiful renderings, still images, custom video content, and motion graphics. We believe in a collaborative process between our clients and producers ensuring their satisfaction with the design and messaging we are creating. We have taken our roots of designing 3-dimensional branding experience and have evolved to help our clients create everything from the physical design down to the graphics, video content and interactive elements.

Our combined experience has created a base for us to understand our clients brands and turn those brands and stories into customer experiences. We are taking that all a step further to push digital content further for our clients. Environmental branding is no longer just a passive experience of showing static images. We want to interact with our content through touchscreens, VR/AR/MR, motion sensors, tablets, social media integration and more. That is just the beginning, every day we are looking at new technology to help our clients engage their customers. The more engaging the experience, the more brand awareness that create. That makes our clients happy and keeps them calling on Pulse for new projects.