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3D Graphics Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

smartdept. is searching for a 3D Product Visualization Designer for a product design client located ... A portfolio that shows photorealistic CGI product or packaging renders, not motion graphics or 2D ...

The Spatial Designer works closely with graphic designers to integrate brand identities within all ... V-Ray 3D Renderer or equivalent * Twinmotion * AutoCAD * Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop ...

Designs and implements a visual identity in a way that ensures the integrity, consistency, and ... in motion graphics and video editing is a major plus. * Experience in Cinema 4D or other 3D ...

Contract Spatial Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$55 - $85/hr

... graphic designers, creative strategists and other spatial designers. The Contract Spatial Designer ... Rhinoceros 3D amp; V-Ray - Preferred * SketchUp, 3d Max * Twinmotion * AutoCAD * Adobe Creative ...

Landscape Designer II

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$61K - $75K/yr

Landscape Designer II Full Time Professional Bozeman, MT, US 8 days ago Requisition ID: 1085 Salary ... A portfolio (PDF or link) showcasing your design, graphic, and 3D visualization work -- Lumion ...

... other 3D modeling software for client review/approval. * Prepare finish and FF&E material palettes and graphic presentations for client approval. * Support business development efforts within the ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital ... After Effects for motion graphics creation experience is not required but is a plus. * Knowledge of ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital ... After Effects for motion graphics creation experience is not required but is a plus. * Knowledge of ...

Designer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$71K - $85K/yr

Prepare program and schematic proposals and develop 3D designs in Revit and other 3D modeling ... Strong communication, graphic organization, technical and written skills. * Proficient with design ...

Designer II

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$71K - $85K/yr

Prepare program and schematic proposals and develop designs in 3D using Revit and other 3D modeling ... Strong communication, graphic organization, technical and written skills * Proficient with design ...

Designer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$71K - $85K/yr

Prepare program and schematic proposals and develop designs in 3D using Revit and other 3D modeling ... Strong communication, graphic organization, technical and written skills * Proficient with design ...

Designer II

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$71K - $85K/yr

Prepare program and schematic proposals and develop designs in 3D using Revit and other 3D modeling ... Strong communication, graphic organization, technical and written skills * Proficient with design ...

Sr. Facade Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

Acts as the lead facade designer and primary client relationship owner * Leads the facade and ... Oversees the development of and may modify and/or review graphic presentations, 3D rendering and ...

You will be involved in developing comprehensive material and finish palettes, creating 3D ... Excellent written, verbal, and graphic communication skills with the ability to multitask

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $156K/yr

Remote - US and Canada only thatgamecompany designs and develops artistically crafted, broadly ... Bachelor's degree or equivalent years of experience in Computer Science, 3D graphics, or related ...

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3D Graphics Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do 3d graphics designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d graphics designer in Chicago, IL is $37.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.70 and $43.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3D graphics designer?

A 3D Graphics Designer is a creative professional who uses specialized software to create three-dimensional models, animations, and visual effects for various media, such as video games, movies, advertisements, and product visualizations. Their work involves developing detailed textures, lighting, and rendering to bring digital scenes and objects to life. 3D Graphics Designers often collaborate with other artists, engineers, or clients to achieve the desired look and functionality for a project. They need both artistic and technical skills to turn concepts into visually engaging digital content.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D graphics designer?

To thrive as a 3D Graphics Designer, you need expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and rendering, usually backed by a degree in graphic design, visual arts, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Strong creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help designers collaborate and bring complex concepts to life. These abilities ensure high-quality visual output, efficient project execution, and strong alignment with client or project objectives.

What are some common challenges 3D graphics designers face when working on collaborative projects?

3D Graphics Designers often work closely with teams including animators, developers, and project managers, which can present challenges in aligning creative visions and technical requirements. Communication is key, as misinterpretations can lead to design revisions or project delays. Additionally, balancing artistic creativity with client or project specifications, and managing feedback from multiple stakeholders, requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Staying updated on evolving software and industry standards is also essential for seamless collaboration.

How much does a 3D graphics designer make?

A 3D graphics designer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $85,000 annually in the United States. Senior designers with advanced skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max can earn higher salaries, especially in specialized fields such as gaming, film, or virtual reality.

Is 3D Graphics Designer a good career?

A 3D Graphics Designer is a viable career choice for those with strong artistic skills and proficiency in software like Blender or Maya. The field offers opportunities in industries such as gaming, film, and advertising, with job prospects improving as demand for visual content grows. Success often requires continuous learning and portfolio development.
Infographic showing various 3D Graphics Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,944 per year, or $38 per hour.

3D Visualization Designer

Chicago, IL • On-site

smartdept. inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

smartdept. is searching for a 3D Product Visualization Designer for a product design client located remotely. The ideal candidate will come with 3+ years of experience. This is a project based, fully remote, ongoing contract opportunity that can fluctuate up or down depending on project needs.
This role blends industrial design thinking with polished, photorealistic 3D rendering. You will not just be visualizing concepts, you will be building the actual package and product mockups, from structure through final render, that clients see as near final. Comfort in both the technical side (accurate mockups, correct proportions, print ready structure) and the artistic side (photoreal lighting, materials, and composition) is essential.
What You'll Do:
Build accurate structural mockups of packaging, kits, and products from technical specs or reference. Create photorealistic 3D renders of packaging, product kits, and occasionally apparel or wearable items for retail ready and presentation ready visuals. Composite and retouch renders into polished, client ready final images. Translate a creative brief into multiple concept directions, balancing industrial design accuracy with strong visual storytelling. Prepare artwork and structural files for print and production.
What You'll Need:
A portfolio that shows photorealistic CGI product or packaging renders, not motion graphics or 2D graphic design samples. Strong command of Adobe Creative Suite, especially Photoshop, for compositing and final polish. Understanding of packaging structure, dielines, and print production requirements. An eye for lighting, material, and composition that reads as true to life, not stylized or illustrative.
Experience:
3+ years experience in 3D rendering, industrial design, or packaging visualization required.
Nice-to-Have Skills:
Rhino, Substance Painter, Adobe Dimension, background in CPG or retail packaging, experience rendering apparel or wearable products

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About smartdept.

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

smartdept. is a nationwide creative, digital, and marketing talent resource. We provide companies with freelance, contract, direct hire, and contract-to-hire candidates for on-site, remote, and hybrid opportunities. Our ability to service customers of all sizes, while still taking a boutique approach to service, allows us the best chance to cultivate the successful relationships we value. Our detailed matching process lets us really get to know everything about our talent – their short- and long-term goals, strengths and weaknesses, favorite playlist, go-to social media influencer, you name it. So when you present us with your criteria, we can provide the most ideal candidate, not just the most available one.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2001

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