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3D Hard Surface Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... surfaces, pavements, alignments, profiles, assemblies, and corridors. **Local PA residents are ... Associate's degree * 2 years of BIM or 3D Modeling experience required (Revit, Civil 3D, Navisworks)

Description The CAD sculptor creates high-quality digital 3D surface models used in the industrial design and product development process. Responsibilities include interpreting and defining the ...

... surfaces and light. Responsibilities and Duties ... Realize the Vision - Elevate high quality 3D character models by optimizing textures and shaders to ...

Industrial Designer

Kilgore, TX · On-site

$106K/yr

Solid Modeling and Parametric modeling * 3D surface modeling * Detail drawings * Design layouts * Templates- Production and R&D * All other duties Qualifications * Experience in product design or ...

... surfaces and light. Responsibilities and Duties ... Realize the Vision - Elevate high quality 3D character models by optimizing textures and shaders to ...

Industrial Designer

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K/yr

Surface Modeling and Visualization: * Use Rhino or similar surface modeling tools to develop 3D concept geometry for review and refinement. Produce high-quality renderings and visualization assets ...

Utilizing current CAD platforms, plans, and common sense to create 3D surface models, calculate bridge structures, drainage runs, utilities etc. * Creating cut/fill reports and plotting exhibits for ...

Rhino Tutor

AR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Rhinoceros 3D NURBS modeling, surface creation, solid modeling, Grasshopper parametric design, rendering, and digital fabrication preparation. Ability to explain NURBS curves and ...

Rhino Tutor

Buffalo, NY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Rhinoceros 3D NURBS modeling, surface creation, solid modeling, Grasshopper parametric design, rendering, and digital fabrication preparation. Ability to explain NURBS curves and ...

Rhino Tutor

MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Rhinoceros 3D NURBS modeling, surface creation, solid modeling, Grasshopper parametric design, rendering, and digital fabrication preparation. Ability to explain NURBS curves and ...

Rhino Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Rhinoceros 3D NURBS modeling, surface creation, solid modeling, Grasshopper parametric design, rendering, and digital fabrication preparation. Ability to explain NURBS curves and ...

Rhino Tutor

Winston Salem, NC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Rhinoceros 3D NURBS modeling, surface creation, solid modeling, Grasshopper parametric design, rendering, and digital fabrication preparation. Ability to explain NURBS curves and ...

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3D Hard Surface Modeling information

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$39.5K

$78.5K

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How much do 3d hard surface modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d hard surface modeling 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 is a 3D Hard Surface Modeling job?

A 3D Hard Surface Modeling job involves creating detailed, realistic, or stylized models of mechanical, weapon, vehicle, and architectural objects for video games, films, or product visualization. Artists use software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to design high-quality assets that emphasize clean topology and precision. Unlike organic modeling, hard surface modeling focuses on non-deformable objects with well-defined edges and surfaces. These models are often textured, lit, and optimized for real-time rendering or high-quality renders.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a 3D Hard Surface Modeler?

As a 3D Hard Surface Modeler, your daily tasks often include creating detailed digital models of objects such as vehicles, machinery, environments, or props based on concept art or technical specifications. You'll frequently collaborate with concept artists, animators, texture artists, and other 3D specialists to ensure your models fit seamlessly into larger projects. Quality checking, refining topology, and optimizing models for various uses (such as real-time engines or high-resolution rendering) are also routine. This role is generally team-oriented, requiring regular communication and feedback integration to meet project milestones and standards.

Is 3D modeling still in demand?

3D hard surface modeling remains in demand across industries such as gaming, film, product design, and virtual reality, with skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max highly valued. The industry continues to grow as demand for realistic and detailed 3D assets increases, making it a viable career path for skilled modelers.

Is 3D modeling a high paying job?

3D hard surface modeling can be a well-paying career, especially for experienced artists working in industries like gaming, film, or product design. Salaries vary based on skill level, location, and the complexity of projects, with advanced 3D modelers often earning competitive wages and benefits. Developing proficiency in industry-standard tools like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max can enhance earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3D Hard Surface Modeling position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Hard Surface Modeler, you need strong proficiency in digital modeling, a solid grasp of form and detail, and a background in art, design, or computer graphics. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, or ZBrush, along with knowledge of rendering engines and, at times, related certifications, is crucial. Attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and effective communication make candidates stand out by ensuring both aesthetic quality and functional collaboration with teams. These skills and qualities are essential for producing production-ready models that meet project specifications and strict visual standards in industries like film, games, and engineering.

What is the salary of 3D hard surface artist?

The salary of a 3D hard surface artist typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level artists may earn less, while experienced professionals working in gaming, film, or product design can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by proficiency in software like Maya, Blender, or ZBrush.

What jobs in the US pay $300,000 a year?

In 3D hard surface modeling, senior roles such as lead modeler or art director in industries like video game development, film, or product design can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working for large companies or in high-cost-of-living areas. These positions often require advanced proficiency in software like Maya, 3ds Max, or Blender, along with a strong portfolio and leadership abilities.
What cities are hiring for 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs? Cities with the most 3D Hard Surface Modeling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs? The most popular types of 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs are:
What states have the most 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Hard Surface Modeling jobs are:
3D BIM Modeler

3D BIM Modeler

MasTec Inc

Blue Bell, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 79 rated construction


Job description

Overview
Company Summary
MasTec Professional Services, a subsidiary of MasTec, provides customer solutions through feasibility studies, design and engineering services, turnkey EPC delivery, surveys, constructability reviews, consulting studies and design-build services.
The 3D BIM Modeler will work on data center, commercial, industrial, and renewable design projects and be responsible for three-dimensional modeling of facilities. Other associated work may be included, such as field surveying, design, CAD drafting, training, data management, and reporting. Will work under the supervision of a Senior Engineer or Project Manager.
Job Summary
The 3D BIM Modeler is responsible for leading the drafting and modeling on multi-disciplined design projects. Categories may include dry and wet utility networks (electric, fiber optic, storm drainage, sanitary sewers, water distribution, culverts, tanks, catch basins) and roadways, grading, surfaces, pavements, alignments, profiles, assemblies, and corridors.
**Local PA residents are encouraged to apply**
Responsibilities
  • Produce preliminary and final design models and drawings using computer aided drafting systems using Revit, Civil 3D, AutoCAD or similar software.
  • Responsible for multi-disciplinary designs related to power distribution, renewable energy, and associated infrastructure.
  • Ensure project model complies with company and contract requirements and support overall construction schedule.
  • Create and manage data, drawing references, and part lists in multi-user environments using Autodesk Construction Cloud.
  • Work with and coordinate with customers, clients, vendors, contractors, and other project stakeholders to provide accurate and clash-free modeling.
  • Generate accurate plan, profile, and cross-section model and sheet files for design, construction, and regulatory submissions.
  • Develop workflows to streamline model and drawing creation, data storage, and overall project efficiency.
  • Produce deliverables using constructable model configurations with appropriate coordinate systems for quick field integration.
  • Participation in construction planning, execution, and quality control.
  • Maintain project records for assigned work, package records per contract requirements and facilitate turnover to the client's representative.
  • Responsible for ongoing communication and timely identification of issues to the Engineer, Project Manager, and Construction Manager regarding pending or actual changes to the work performed that may impact costs, schedule, contract or customer relationship.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Associate's degree
  • 2 years of BIM or 3D Modeling experience required (Revit, Civil 3D, Navisworks)
  • AutoCAD experience is required
  • Understanding of survey data formats and coordinate systems
  • Travel as needed

Preferred Qualifications
  • BS in Engineering or similar
  • EIT is a plus
  • AutoDesk Construction Cloud experience
  • Knowledge of NEC preferred

Physical Demands and Work Environment
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, and scanners.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is primarily sedentary, with some filing or lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).
Equal Employment Opportunity:
The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

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