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3D Character Modeler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scattermesh

Senior Lighting Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Realize the Vision - Elevate high quality 3D character models by optimizing textures, shaders and lighting environments to create realistic renders. * Construct Reality - Create and maintain the ...

Purple Drive

3D Artist

Auburn Hills, MI

... Character Design • Composition Roles & Responsibilities • Design 3D modeling , lighting, texturing and rendering as per communicated design • Understanding the project requirements and ...

Purple Drive Technologies

3D Artist

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

... Character Design • Composition Roles & Responsibilities • Design 3D modeling , lighting, texturing and rendering as per communicated design • Understanding the project requirements and ...

Scattermesh

Senior Lighting Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Realize the Vision - Elevate high quality 3D character models by optimizing textures, shaders and lighting environments to create realistic renders. * Construct Reality - Create and maintain the ...

Scattermesh

Senior 3D Technical Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... 3D Technical Facial Character Artists to work across client projects on a full time basis on-site ... modeling, sculpting and texturing expertise from scratch or scan data based on concept art. * Pass ...

Scattermesh

Senior 3D Technical Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

... 3D Technical Facial Character Artists to work across client projects on a full time basis on-site ... modeling, sculpting and texturing expertise from scratch or scan data based on concept art. * Pass ...

Ace Handyman Services

CAD Modeler/Draftsman

Riverside, CA · On-site

$48K - $72K/yr

Experience with surface or character modeling * Experience with CAM programming * Experience with CNC Machines * Experience with 3D slicer software for 3D prints * Other skillsets or familiarity ...

Swaybox Studios

Rhino Designer

New Orleans, LA

Develop detailed 3D models, set drawings, floor plans, and elevation designs in Rhino 3D ... Ensure sets are designed with camera angles, character movement, lighting, and puppet/animation ...

DK Global

3D Generalist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Possess strong 3D modeling/texturing skills using 3DS Max. * Possess strong character/vehicle animation skills using 3DS Max. * Must be proficient at using Adobe products. (i.e., Photoshop, After ...

DK Global

3D Generalist

Redlands, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

Possess strong 3D modeling/texturing skills using 3DS Max. * Possess strong character/vehicle animation skills using 3DS Max. * Must be proficient at using Adobe products. (i.e., Photoshop, After ...

Swaybox Studios

Rhino Designer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Develop detailed 3D models, set drawings, floor plans, and elevation designs in Rhino 3D ... Ensure sets are designed with camera angles, character movement, lighting, and puppet/animation ...

2K

Senior Concept Artist (Characters)

Novato, CA

$100K - $148K/yr

Quickly iterate detailed line art character designs. * Create paintovers for 3D visualization to ... Fluent with 3D modeling and animation packages such as Maya, 3ds Max, etc. Who You Are: * A ...

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3D Character Modeler information

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How much do 3d character modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d character modeler in the United States is $78,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

In the field of 3D character modeling, experienced professionals working in gaming, film, or animation studios can earn around $80,000 annually, especially with advanced skills in software like Maya or Blender. Senior 3D modelers with a strong portfolio and specialized expertise often reach this salary level, particularly in larger companies or competitive markets.

What is a 3D Character Modeler job?

A 3D Character Modeler is responsible for creating digital characters for video games, films, animation, and other media. They use specialized software like Blender, ZBrush, and Maya to sculpt, texture, and refine character models based on concept art or creative direction. Their work ensures that characters not only look visually appealing but also function properly in animations and real-time applications. Collaboration with animators, riggers, and designers is essential to maintaining consistency and quality. Strong artistic skills, knowledge of anatomy, and technical proficiency are key to success in this role.

Is 3D modeling a high paying job?

3D character modelers can earn competitive salaries, especially with experience, strong portfolios, and proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya or Blender. Salaries vary by location, industry, and skill level, but experienced professionals in the field often earn above average wages for creative roles.

How much do 3D modellers get paid?

3D character modelers typically earn between $45,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals working in gaming, film, or animation can earn higher salaries, especially with proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender.

What types of projects or teams do 3D Character Modelers typically work on?

3D Character Modelers often collaborate with concept artists, animators, riggers, and game designers on projects ranging from video games and animated films to cinematic trailers and virtual reality experiences. While some roles may be specialized and focus solely on character creation, many positions involve working closely with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure models are optimized for animation, rendering, and in-game performance. The workflow is highly collaborative, with ongoing feedback loops and iteration as part of the creative process. If you enjoy teamwork, contributing to high-impact visual storytelling, and refining your craft through feedback, this environment may be a great fit for you.

Will 3D modelers be replaced by AI?

3D character modelers create detailed digital models for use in games, films, and animations. While AI tools can assist with tasks like automating repetitive processes or generating base models, human expertise is still essential for creative decision-making, fine-tuning details, and ensuring quality. AI is more likely to augment rather than replace skilled 3D modelers in the foreseeable future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3D Character Modeler position, and why are they important?

Excelling as a 3D Character Modeler requires strong artistic ability, knowledge of human and creature anatomy, and proficiency in modeling techniques, often supported by a degree in art, animation, or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush, and familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine is typically essential, along with experience in texturing tools like Substance Painter. Attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are highly valued soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to producing visually compelling, technically sound character assets that integrate smoothly into diverse production pipelines.

More about 3D Character Modeler jobs
What cities are hiring for 3D Character Modeler jobs? Cities with the most 3D Character Modeler job openings:
What states have the most 3D Character Modeler jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Character Modeler jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 3D Character Modeler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Character Modeler jobs are:
3D Character Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Character Modeler job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,472 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Lead 3D Artist - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA • On-site, Remote

Contractor

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Company Description
We create next-generation Virtual Reality Content that represents a new form of entertainment. We bridge the gap between video games and movies, providing a level of immersion, emotional engagement and realism never before seen.
Job Description
  • Creation of high quality game assets in collaboration with concept artists and CCO
  • Maintaining the production pipeline and meeting deadlines.
  • Working closely with the implementation and gameplay departments.
  • Prototyping new technologies on the given platforms.
  • Leading the 3D Artists team
  • Setting the quality targets and bar for 3D assets and textures on the projects
  • Sharing knowledge and techniques across the studio
  • Mentoring 3D Artists

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in game development
  • Expert knowledge of creating realistic creatures and assets
  • Expert knowledge of Max/Maya or equivalent package
  • Expert knowledge of Photoshop
  • Expert Knowledge of games development pipeline/environment/engines
  • Expert Knowledge of ZBrush/Mudbox or equivalent
  • Expert knowledge of texturing
  • Ability to create highpoly and lowpoly models and textures
  • Experience creating/tuning surface shaders a plus
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Good eye for details
  • English language
  • A strong team player & leader by example

Additional Information
Pluses
  • Shipped AAA PC or console titles as a Senior 3D Character Artist
  • Work experience with Unreal Engine 4
  • Understanding the difference between developing for VR compared to traditional game development.
  • A passion for developing and playing virtual reality experiences

Apply