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3D Modeler Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Formative 3D

Director of Industrial Design

Falls Church, VA

$165K - $203K/yr

Advanced expertise in 3D modeling and CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360). * Strong knowledge of DFM/DFA principles and production-ready design documentation. * Experience with additive ...

Tt

Senior BIM Modeler

Washington, DC

$47 - $58/hr

In this role, you'll be responsible for creating 3D parametric models, translating them into clear 2D drawings, and producing detailed construction documents. The ideal candidate is self-directed ...

Tejjy, Inc.

3D Laser Scanning Technician

Rockville, MD · On-site

Proficiency in using company-supplied software for 3D data processing, visualization, and modeling. Specific software titles will be provided during the interview process. * Quality Assurance and ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Dulles, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Leesburg, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Bristow, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Sterling, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Ashburn, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Amteck, LLC

BIM Technician - Electrical

Manassas, VA · On-site +1

Key Responsibilities: * 3D Modeling:Creating and updating detailed 3D models of electrical systems using BIM software * Model Coordination:Integrating design information from various disciplines ...

Formative 3D

CNC Operator

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... model of manufacturing isn't theoretical; it's operational. Apply online at or email job@strategichrinc.com to join a great team! Formative 3D is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ...

Formative 3D

CNC Operator

Falls Church, VA

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... that a new model of manufacturing isn't theoretical; it's operational. Apply online today to join a great team! Formative 3D is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to hiring and ...

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All Jobs3D Modeler Jobs3D Modeler Jobs in Reston, VA

3D Modeler information

See Reston, VA salary details

$41.1K

$81.6K

$129.5K

How much do 3d modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d modeler in Reston, VA is $81,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,900.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are 3D modelers in demand?

3D modelers are in demand across industries such as gaming, film, animation, and product design, with employment opportunities growing as visual content becomes more important. Skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max and a strong portfolio can improve job prospects. The role often requires staying updated with new tools and techniques to remain competitive.

Is 3D modeling a high paying job?

3D modelers can earn competitive salaries, especially with experience, specialized skills, and proficiency in industry-standard software like Maya or Blender. Salaries vary by industry, location, and level of expertise, with roles in gaming, film, and product design often offering higher pay. Advanced skills and certifications can also lead to higher compensation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D Modeler, and why are they important?

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 are 3D Modelers?

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.

Will 3D modelers be replaced by AI?

3D modelers are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI, as their role involves creative problem-solving, artistic judgment, and complex decision-making that current AI tools cannot fully replicate. AI can assist with tasks like automating repetitive processes and generating initial models, but human expertise remains essential for high-quality, detailed, and customized 3D work. Skilled 3D modelers who adapt to new tools and develop their technical and artistic skills will continue to be in demand.

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.

How do I become a 3D modeler?

To become a 3D modeler, you typically need to learn 3D modeling software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max through online courses or formal education. Building a strong portfolio of your work and gaining experience through internships or freelance projects are important steps, along with understanding concepts like anatomy, topology, and texturing.

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 job categories do people searching 3D Modeler jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Modeler jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for 3D Modeler jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most 3D Modeler job openings:
3D Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Modeler job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,639 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Director of Industrial Design

Director of Industrial Design

Formative 3D

Falls Church, VA

$165K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity: Director of Industrial Design with Formative 3D in Falls Church, VAAre you highly skilled in 3D design and CAD, with a strong understanding of DFM/DFA principles? Do you enjoy leading product development, prototyping, and cross‑functional collaboration? Are you excited to shape product strategy, innovation, and long‑term growth through design? If you answered yes, we want to speak with you!

As the Director of Industrial Design you will take ownership, think like a builder, and balance creative vision with practical execution. This role requires strong leadership, advanced design expertise, and the ability to move seamlessly from concept development to production problem‑solving while collaborating cross‑functionally to uphold high design and industry standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead near-, mid-, and long‑term design initiatives that inform the product roadmap and expand future opportunities.
  • Drive rapid, iterative prototyping through sketching, modeling, and physical builds to support discovery and development.
  • Translate design exploration and research into actionable product, R&D, and growth strategies.
  • Define and maintain a clear product roadmap with aligned priorities, timelines, and deliverables.
  • Lead the full product development lifecycle from concept through production across multiple concurrent projects.
  • Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and client service teams to align design intent with feasibility, cost, and go‑to‑market plans.
  • Establish tools, workflows, and cadences to track progress, improve execution, and manage risk.
  • Guide concept development across furniture, lighting, and emerging built‑environment categories.
  • Identify new opportunities beyond current product lines, including architectural systems and additive-enabled solutions.
  • Recruit, mentor, and lead a multidisciplinary design team, fostering accountability, curiosity, and innovation.
  • Collaborate with leadership and external partners to align vision, expand influence, and position design as a strategic driver of the business.

Qualifications:

  • 8-12+ years of industrial design experience bringing complex physical products from concept through production.
  • Advanced expertise in 3D modeling and CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360).
  • Strong knowledge of DFM/DFA principles and production-ready design documentation.
  • Experience with additive manufacturing processes and related materials, tolerances, and finishes.
  • Proven ability to lead iterative prototyping, testing, and performance validation.
  • Experience with parametric or computational design is a plus.
  • Ability to create and manage detailed drawings, specifications, and BOMs for production handoff.

Why Join Formative 3D?

We're building the next generation of manufacturing through advanced 3D printing. What begins with furniture and lighting is quickly expanding into a broader ambition: to rethink how the built environment is conceived, designed, and realized. Formative 3D is building a new model of manufacturing for the built environment using advanced 3D printing, robotics, and automation. We design and manufacture products that range from high-end furniture systems and architectural lighting to jigs, fixtures, and tooling. We're looking for a leader to drive the creative and strategic direction of our product ecosystem.

Apply online today to join a great team!

Formative 3D is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to hiring and developing the most qualified individuals based on job‑related experience, skills, and merit. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We value a respectful, inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Formative 3D maintains a drug‑free workplace consistent with applicable local, state, and federal laws.

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