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3D Game Modeling Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Blender Tutor

Portland, OR ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers. * Conceptual ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Portland, OR ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... game asset creation, and visual effects production. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering workflows in 3DS Max. Guides students through ...

Water Resources Engineer

Beaverton, OR ยท On-site

$48.07 - $57.69/hr

Experience with Civil 3D, GIS platforms, and related engineering software. * Background in green ... outings such as game nights, karaoke, and ski nights. A laptop will be provided. Job Type ...

3D Game Modeling information

See Portland, OR salary details

$55.7K

$150.5K

$190.4K

How much do 3d game modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d game modeling in Portland, OR is $150,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,400.00 and $177,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 3D game modeling?

3D game modeling is the process of creating three-dimensional digital representations of characters, environments, props, and other assets that are used in video games. Artists use specialized software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to design these models, ensuring they are both visually appealing and optimized for real-time rendering in game engines. The process typically involves sculpting, texturing, and rigging models, which are then integrated into the game for players to interact with. 3D game modeling is a critical part of game development, shaping the visual experience and immersion for players.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D game modeler?

To thrive as a 3D Game Modeler, you need strong artistic ability, proficiency in 3D modeling concepts, and experience with industry-standard software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, typically supported by a relevant degree or portfolio. Familiarity with texturing tools (such as Substance Painter), game engines (like Unity or Unreal Engine), and understanding of optimization techniques are essential. Attention to detail, creativity, collaboration, and effective communication help you stand out in team-based production environments. These skills ensure the creation of visually compelling, technically efficient assets that align with the game's artistic direction and performance requirements.

How do 3D game modelers typically collaborate with other departments during game development?

3D Game Modelers work closely with concept artists, animators, and game designers to ensure models fit the artistic vision and technical requirements of the game. Regular communication is key, as modelers need to adapt their work based on feedback regarding visual style, poly count, and animation needs. They often participate in review sessions, iterating on assets to align with evolving gameplay and narrative goals. Collaboration with programmers may also be necessary to optimize models for performance, especially in larger or more complex game environments.

What is the difference between 3D Game Modeling vs 3D Character Artist?

Aspect3D Game Modeling3D Character Artist
Primary FocusCreating 3D models for environments, objects, and assets used in gamesDesigning and modeling detailed characters for games
Skills & ToolsModeling, texturing, UV mapping, software like Blender, Maya, 3ds MaxCharacter anatomy, sculpting, texturing, software like ZBrush, Maya
Work EnvironmentGame studios, freelance, animation companiesGame studios, animation houses, freelance
Industry UsageUsed across all game types for environment and asset creationSpecifically for character design and development

While both roles involve 3D modeling skills, 3D Game Modeling focuses on creating a variety of game assets, whereas 3D Character Artist specializes in designing detailed characters. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the gaming industry.

How to get a job in 3D game modeling?

To get a job in 3D game modeling, build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, and gain experience through personal projects or internships. Developing proficiency in modeling, texturing, and understanding game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine is essential, along with a good understanding of art fundamentals and technical requirements. Networking within the industry and staying updated on current trends can also improve job prospects.

How to start 3D game modeling for games?

To start 3D game modeling, learn the fundamentals of 3D software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, and practice creating basic models. Developing skills in texturing, UV mapping, and understanding game engine requirements like Unity or Unreal Engine is essential for integrating models into games.

Is 3D game modeling still in demand?

3D game modeling remains in demand as the gaming industry continues to grow, requiring skilled artists to create realistic characters, environments, and assets. Proficiency in tools like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, along with a strong portfolio, can improve job prospects in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Game Modeling jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of 3D Game Modeling jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various 3D Game Modeling job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,529 per year, or $72.4 per hour.

3D Environment Artist - Talent Pool (2026 Opportunities)

Portland, OR โ€ข Remote

$26 - $38/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Liquid Development was founded in 2000 and is the largest outsourcing art studio in North America. We offer a fun and cooperative work atmosphere, where collaboration is encouraged among a diversely talented team to remain on the cutting edge of content creation. Everyday Liquid Development is producing work at the forefront of modern game production and the demands for our services continue to grow. Our team has contributed to AAA titles within the Halo, Mass Effect, Borderlands, and Call of Duty franchises - Liquid Development is the team these titles turn to when they need the best.

Check Us Out On ArtStation:
https://www.artstation.com/liquiddevelopment

We're building our 2026 talent pool for exceptional 3D Environment Artists! By applying, you're not applying for a specific role today-instead, you're joining a curated network of creative professionals that we may reach out to as new projects emerge. While this isn't an active opening at the moment, it helps us get to know your style and experience early on. If your skills and experience align with upcoming opportunities, we'll contact you to explore a potential collaboration. Join us now to stay on our radar for exciting future work.

We are currently seeking 3D Environment Artists who is passionate about creating high quality, game-ready environments and eager to contribute to a team of experienced artists on a long-term project. You will be embedded in a collaborative, cross-functional team - working closely with Concept Art, Animation, Engineering, and other teams to create environments that are faithful to the project's visual direction and design intentions.

Within your first 90 days, you will:

  • Learn a proprietary engine quickly and work effectively inside its constraints.
  • Deliver a complete environment area (assets + assembly + materials) that matches concept and art direction.
  • Do it with minimal supervision, asking smart questions early, and communicating progress clearly.

Some of the cool stuff you'll be doing:

  • Collaborate with art leadership to understand and develop artistically consistent captivating worlds
  • Model, texture and integrate in-game environments based on concepts, 3D mock-ups and art direction specifications
  • Build and maintain modular environment kits, including materials and trim sheets
  • Contribute to the project's organization and optimization of both data and production pipelines
  • Track and fix bugs during production and post production

Requirements

What you'll bring to the table:

  • A strong portfolio with recent work showcasing a range of stylistically different pieces showcasing real-time environments, hero assets, or modular kits (**must submit to be considered**)
  • 5+ years of experience in video game production with a track record of shipped projects
  • Possess a strong grasp of composition, visual design, and color theory
  • Proficiency in industry standard 3D modeling, sculpting, and texturing software
  • Experience shipping environment art in multiple game engines.
  • Technical proficiency in game environment art workflows such as topology, UVs, and optimized meshes
  • Strong knowledge of game production pipelines
  • Strong proactive collaboration and communication skills

Bonus Points!

  • Experience with Unreal Engine 5.

This is a fully remote ongoing contract only position. At this time, this position is not available to California residents.

Due to the high volume of applications, we kindly ask you to not reach out to the Liquid Development team. Once you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email that the hiring team will be reviewing your application. You will hear directly from our Talent Acquisition team once we have an update for you regarding your application status.

Benefits

What's in it for you?

If working on some of the biggest and best titles with some of the coolest people within the games industry isn't enough, we also offer:

  • Work alongside dynamic individuals in the gaming industry
  • Work within a company with upward career growth opportunities
  • Work Fully Remote
  • Full Time Employment Benefits for applicants located in US only include:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision benefits
    • Voluntary Long-term / Short-term Disability
    • 401K w/ company match
  • Salary RANGE: $56K - $80K per year ($26/hr to $38/hr)

Keywords Studios is dedicated to following a well-established Equal Opportunities Policy. We endeavor to create a workplace which provides for equal opportunities for all employees and potential employees.

Note to Recruitment Agencies

Please be advised that Keywords Studios does not consider unsolicited resumes, or any form of contact initiated by unauthorized third parties, including recruitment or placement agencies, unless a pre-existing, valid agreement is in place. Any fees incurred by unauthorized third parties will not be compensated by Keywords Studios.

AI Notice

Keywords Studios is committed to fair and ethical hiring practices. We expect candidates to conduct themselves with honesty and to participate in all applications and interviews independently, presenting their own knowledge and experience. Candidates should refrain from using AI assistance or third-party tools or services that could influence, capture, or otherwise interfere with the authenticity of the assessment process.

E-Verify Notification

This Organization Participates in E-Verify

Esta Organizacion Participa en E-Verify

PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION POLICY

By providing your information in this application, you understand that we will collect and process your information in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Notice. For more information, please see our Applicant Privacy Notice athttps://www.keywordsstudios.com/en/applicant-privacy-notice.ย 

Role Information: EN
Studio: Liquid Development
Location: Americas, United States, Oregon
Area of Work: Art Services
Service: Create
Employment Type: Full Time, Contractor
Working Pattern: Remote