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3D Modeling Animation Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrated proficiency with Autodesk 3D Studio Max, including modeling, texturing, lighting, and basic animation. * Experience with Chaos V-Ray, particularly real-time GPU rendering. * Demonstrated ...

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

Create 4D Scheduling animations from construction schedules * Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds * Assist in laser scanning of construction sites * Review 3D models for ...

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

Create 4D Scheduling animations from construction schedules * Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds * Assist in laser scanning of construction sites * Review 3D models for ...

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

Create 4D Scheduling animations from construction schedules * Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds * Assist in laser scanning of construction sites * Review 3D models for ...

VDC Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65 - $100/hr

... animations from construction schedules • Create models from captured laser scanned site point clouds • Assist in laser scanning of construction sites • Review 3D models for accuracy against ...

VDC Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Create logistics models and drawings, as well as 4D scheduling animations, to support field operations. * Oversee the creation of 3D models for all project phases, ensuring accuracy and adherence to ...

VDC Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Create logistics models and drawings, as well as 4D scheduling animations, to support field operations. * Oversee the creation of 3D models for all project phases, ensuring accuracy and adherence to ...

VDC Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

... videos, animations, and 2D/3D graphics, for presentations, marketing, and job pursuits. • Collaborate with estimating teams by providing quantity take-offs and modeling support. • Facilitate ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital ... Model, texture and light all elements involved with the project * Understand the varieties of light ...

Be Seen First

We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital ... Model, texture and light all elements involved with the project * Understand the varieties of light ...

Showing results 41-60

3D Modeling Animation information

See Illinois salary details

$30K

$61.9K

$128.4K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d modeling animation in Illinois is $61,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $60,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3D modeling animation?

A 3D Modeling Animation job involves creating three-dimensional digital models and animating them for use in films, video games, advertisements, and other media. Professionals in this field use software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to design characters, environments, and objects with realistic textures and movements. They collaborate with designers, animators, and developers to bring concepts to life. Strong artistic skills, creativity, and technical proficiency are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in 3D modeling animation?

To thrive in 3D Modeling Animation, you need strong artistic abilities, a solid understanding of 3D geometry, animation principles, and a degree or coursework in computer graphics or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, or Cinema 4D, and familiarity with rendering engines or real-time platforms like Unity or Unreal Engine, is commonly required. Attention to detail, time management, effective communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills in this field. Mastery of these skills ensures the creation of high-quality, visually compelling animations that meet project requirements and deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in 3D modeling animation?

Professionals in 3D Modeling Animation often encounter challenges such as meeting tight deadlines, managing complex project revisions, and maintaining consistency across models and animations. They may also need to quickly adapt to new software tools or workflows as technology advances in the field. Effective communication with designers, directors, and other creative team members is essential to align on project vision and incorporate feedback efficiently. Staying current with industry trends and techniques can also be important for career growth and job satisfaction.

Is 3D modeling animation a good career?

3D modeling animation is a viable career that involves creating digital models and animated sequences using software like Maya or Blender. It requires technical skills, creativity, and often a portfolio or certification, with job opportunities in entertainment, gaming, advertising, and design industries. The field offers opportunities for freelance work or employment in studios, with a typical schedule involving project deadlines and collaboration.

Is there a demand for 3D modeling animators?

The demand for 3D modeling animators remains strong across industries such as gaming, film, advertising, and virtual reality, driven by the increasing use of 3D content. Skilled animators proficient in software like Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max are sought after, especially those with a strong portfolio and knowledge of animation principles and rendering techniques.

What jobs can you get with 3D modeling animation?

With 3D modeling animation skills, you can pursue roles such as 3D animator, character modeler, visual effects artist, game designer, or architectural visualizer. These jobs typically require proficiency in software like Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max and may involve working in entertainment, gaming, advertising, or architecture industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Modeling Animation jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of 3D Modeling Animation jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching 3D Modeling Animation jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for 3D Modeling Animation jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various 3D Modeling Animation job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,888 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Visual Simulations Technician

ERM

Chicago, IL • On-site

$95K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Shape the future of visual impact assessment with cutting-edge 3D visualization technology.

ERM is seeking a Visual Simulations Technician to join our growing Visual Services team. This role supports clients across the electric transmission, renewable energy, extractive industries, and other sectors by developing technically defensible visual products that help stakeholders understand complex projects. As part of our innovative visualization team, you will play a key role in delivering advanced 3D simulations, VR experiences, and interactive environments that support regulatory, licensing, and public outreach efforts.

Why This Role Matters?

ERM's visualization technology is at the forefront of environmental impact assessment and stakeholder engagement. Our team continually pushes the boundaries of innovation by creating immersive and technically robust visual tools that help communities, regulators, and clients better understand proposed developments. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced visualization professional who is passionate about advancing their career with a global sustainability leader.

What Your Impact Is:

  • Support clients and projects in electric transmission, renewables (wind, solar, hydropower, and battery storage), and extractive (mining and oil & gas) industries, among others.

  • Develop technically defensible 3D visual simulations of proposed projects.

  • Create innovative outreach materials, including VR 360-degree simulations and interactive 3D environments.

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to communicate complex engineering and environmental concepts through advanced visualization technologies.

  • Contribute to the ongoing innovation and development of ERM's visualization capabilities and products.

What You'll Bring:

Required

  • Minimum of 3-4 years of professional experience in a related AEC field, including practical experience preparing 3D visualizations, 3D modeling, and 3D simulations.

  • Demonstrated proficiency with Autodesk 3D Studio Max, including modeling, texturing, lighting, and basic animation.

  • Experience with Chaos V-Ray, particularly real-time GPU rendering.

  • Demonstrated proficiency with Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign.

  • Ability to work effectively under tight project deadlines both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

  • Strong passion for innovation within the 3D visualization industry and commitment to continuously improving the quality of work.

  • Ability to provide samples of previous work through a portfolio website, cloud drive, or other accessible platform.

  • This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.

Preferred

  • Experience translating data from a wide assortment of software platforms and coordinate systems, including LiDAR and point cloud datasets.

  • Experience with Forest Pack Pro, RailClone, or similar scattering and optimization tools.

  • Experience with ArcGIS and/or Global Mapper.

  • Experience with Autodesk Civil 3D.

  • Experience with Google Earth Pro.

  • Experience with additional Adobe Creative Suite products, including Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Illustrator.

  • Experience with Blender.

  • Experience with Chaos Vantage.

  • Experience with Unreal Engine or Unity for real-time interactive environments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to the preparation of technically defensible 3D models, renderings, photomontages, visual simulations, and animations for regulatory, licensing, and public outreach applications across a diverse range of projects.

  • Utilize cutting-edge hardware and software platforms to develop innovative approaches for communicating complex civil and infrastructure designs to public audiences.

  • Maintain high technical and visual quality standards while ensuring project deliverables meet client expectations and regulatory requirements.

  • Collaborate with project teams, technical specialists, and visualization colleagues to support project execution from concept through final delivery.

Applications accepted through September 30, 2026.

For the Managing Technical Consultant, Data Analytics & Visualization position, the anticipated annual base pay is $95,400-$121,400 (USD). Actual pay will depend on factors such as education, experience, skills, location, performance, and business needs. In some cases, pay may fall outside this range. This role may be eligible for bonus pay (casual and fixed term/flex force employees are not bonus eligible).

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, parental leave, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, AD&D insurance, 401(k) or RRSP/DPSP, and other applicable benefits to eligible employees.

Note:Bonuses, commissions, and other forms of additional compensation are not guaranteed and subject to the sole discretion of ERM and its policies and procedures.

Who We Are:
As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations.

At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Please submit your resume and brief cover letter.

ERM does not accept recruiting agency resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, ERM employees or any other company location. ERM is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

ERM is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Thank you for your interest in ERM!

#LI-Hybrid

#LI-Remote


ERM logo

About ERM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, we partner with the world's leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunity for future generations. At ERM we know that creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment is an essential part of making our company a great place to build a career. We also see our diversity as a strength that helps us create better solutions for our clients. Our diverse team of world-class experts supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability, underpinned by our deep technical expertise in addressing their environmental, health, safety, risk and social issues. We call this capability our "boots to boardroom" approach for its comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

City of London, Greater London, GB

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