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3D Modeler Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

Aquent

3D Modeler

Corte Madera, CA · On-site

$65 - $66.66/hr

Aug 31, 2026 Role Overview We are seeking a skilled 3D Modeler specializing in furniture and upholstery soft goods to join our client's product development team. Candidates with an Industrial Design ...

Aechelon Technology

Geospecific 3D Modeler

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Aechelon Technology, Inc. is a leading producer of 3D simulator content, including Geospecific visual/sensor databases and realistic 3D models. We seek people who share our passion for real-time ...

Tolan

3D Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Model and texture characters, accessories, props, environments, and world objects that define the Tolan experience. * Tune materials, shaders, lighting setups, and VFX to create a stylized ...

Prisms VR

3D Artist (Remote)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$110K - $140K/yr

The ideal portfolio should showcase all aspects of 3D generalist skills, including your ability in modeling, texturing, Unity scene layout and lighting, and motion graphic animation. * Ability to ...

The Bot Company

3D Vision

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$200K - $350K/yr

Experience with PyTorch and CUDA, including custom operators, optimized data pipelines, or model acceleration. * Experience building 3D vision systems from scratch - not just using off-the-shelf ...

The Bot Company

3D Vision

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Experience with PyTorch and CUDA, including custom operators, optimized data pipelines, or model acceleration. * Experience building 3D vision systems from scratch - not just using off-the-shelf ...

Avala AI, Inc

3D Computer Vision Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130K - $190K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Develop cutting-edge solutions using NeRFs, Diffusion Models, Gaussian Splatting, Multiview Stereo, TSDF Fusion, Structure from Motion, and SLAM. * Mission-Critical Perception : Create robust 3D ...

World Labs

Pipeline Engineer (Graphics/3D)

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$164K - $203K/yr

We build foundational world models that can perceive, generate, reason, and interact with the 3D world - unlocking AI's full potential through spatial intelligence by transforming seeing into doing ...

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All Jobs3D Modeler Jobs3D Modeler Jobs in Novato, CA

3D Modeler information

See Novato, CA salary details

$46.4K

$92.1K

$146.2K

How much do 3d modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d modeler in Novato, CA is $92,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,700.00 and $115,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are 3D modelers in demand?

3D modelers are in demand across industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design, with employment growth driven by increasing use of 3D visualization and animation. Skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max enhance job prospects, and a strong portfolio is often required. The field offers opportunities for freelance and full-time work, with demand expected to grow as digital content creation expands.

Is a 3D Modeler job a good career?

A 3D Modeler job is a viable career in industries such as gaming, film, and animation, requiring skills in software like Maya or Blender. It offers opportunities for creative expression and growth, with demand increasing for skilled artists in digital media. Career prospects depend on experience, portfolio quality, and proficiency with industry-standard tools.

How much does a 3D Modeler get paid?

The average salary for a 3D Modeler varies depending on experience, location, and industry, typically ranging from $45,000 to $85,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills in software like Maya or Blender can earn higher wages.

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

To thrive as a 3D Modeler, you need a strong grasp of modeling techniques, texturing, and digital sculpting, typically supported by a portfolio and relevant education in art or design. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush, and Adobe Creative Suite is essential, and certifications can be advantageous. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in collaborative environments. These skills ensure the creation of visually compelling and technically accurate models that meet project requirements in industries like gaming, film, and design.

What is a 3D modeler?

3D Modelers are professionals who create three-dimensional digital representations of objects, characters, environments, or products using specialized software. Their work is widely used in industries such as video games, movies, animation, architecture, and product design. 3D Modelers use tools like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to sculpt, texture, and render models that can be animated or visualized for various purposes. Their skills combine artistic creativity with technical proficiency, ensuring that models are both visually appealing and accurately constructed. The role often involves collaborating with other artists, designers, and engineers to meet project goals.

What is the difference between 3D Modeler vs 3D Artist?

Aspect3D Modeler3D Artist
Primary FocusCreating 3D models and assetsCreating complete visual content, including models, textures, and scenes
Skills & ToolsModeling software (Maya, Blender, 3ds Max)Modeling, texturing, lighting, rendering, and compositing
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation, product designGames, movies, advertising, visual effects
CredentialsOften requires a portfolio, sometimes certifications in modeling softwareSimilar credentials, with broader skills in visual creation

While both roles involve 3D creation, a 3D Modeler specializes in building detailed models, whereas a 3D Artist has a broader scope, including texturing, lighting, and rendering to produce complete visual scenes.

What are some typical challenges 3D modelers face when working on collaborative projects?

3D Modelers often work closely with animators, texture artists, and game designers, which requires strong communication and adaptability. A common challenge is ensuring that models meet both artistic and technical requirements, such as polygon count or compatibility with various software. Additionally, revisions based on feedback can be frequent, so being open to critique and able to iterate quickly is essential. Effective version control and clear documentation also play a big role in successful collaboration.

What does a 3D modeler do?

As a 3D Modeler, your primary responsibilities are to design and build 3D models based on the specifications of your clients. If you work in a shop, you will collaborate with other 3D Modelers and artists to create 3D characters, environments, and other items depending on your clientele. If you are self-employed, then you will work jobs for clients on a case-by-case basis. You will perform most of your 3D modeling work on a computer using software sculpting and texturing programs like ZBrush, Mudbox, and Polypainting. You may also use 3D printing technology to produce prototypes for your clients.

More about 3D Modeler jobs

What cities near Novato, CA are hiring for 3D Modeler jobs?

Cities near Novato, CA with the most 3D Modeler job openings:

3D Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Modeler job openings in Novato, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,132 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

3D Modeler

Aquent

Corte Madera, CA • On-site

$65 - $66.66/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Placement Type:
Temporary
Salary:
$65-66.66 Hourly
Start Date:
Aug 31, 2026
Role Overview
We are seeking a skilled 3D Modeler specializing in furniture and upholstery soft goods to join our client's product development team. Candidates with an Industrial Design background are also a good fit. This role bridges the gap between creative design concepts and vendor manufacturing. You will create photo-realistic renderings for internal leadership reviews and generate dimensionally precise 3D models and 2D CAD drafting packets for direct handoff to production vendors.
Key Responsibilities
  • 3D Upholstery Modeling: Build realistic 3D assets for soft goods, including cushions, complex tufting, seam boxing, fabric draping, and curved frame geometries across full collections (sofas, sectionals, modular units) and standalone accent chairs.
  • Production-Ready Deliverables: Produce technically accurate 3D models and pull dimensioned 2D CAD drawing sets suitable for vendor tooling and manufacture.
  • Visualization & Rendering: Create high-fidelity visual renders for design reviews, presentations, and executive sign-off.
  • Design Collaboration: Partner closely with internal industrial designers to offload modeling bandwidth while actively contributing technical problem-solving ideas.
  • Iterative Design: Adapt models quickly based on feedback, incorporating frequent design revisions throughout the development lifecycle.

Required Skills & Qualifications
  • Soft Goods Expertise: Proven track record in modeling complex upholstered furniture, organic shapes, and soft textiles with high visual accuracy.
  • Technical Drafting: Proficiency in translating 3D volumes into accurate 2D CAD specification packages with clear dimensioning.
  • Mindset & Soft Skills: Highly collaborative with strong verbal and visual communication skills. Receptive to feedback, adaptable to fast-paced revision cycles, and passionate about furniture design.

Software Proficiency
  • Proficient in industry-standard 3D modeling and rendering software (e.g., Rhino, Fusion 360, 3ds Max, Blender, or equivalent platform capable of outputting exact CAD geometry and photo-realistic renders).

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