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3D Modeling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Basic Job Functions: * 2D/3D Modeling: Develop electronic models of custom buildings using advanced drafting software. * Draft Construction Anchor Bolt Drawings : Generate precise drawings for ...

BIM & Revit Modeler

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Enjoy a flexible hybrid working environment with modern tools and workflows What You'll Do 3D Modeling & Delivery * Develop accurate, high-quality 3D Revit models for electrical engineering projects

BIM & Revit Modeler

San Jose, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Enjoy a flexible hybrid working environment with modern tools and workflows What You'll Do 3D Modeling & Delivery * Develop accurate, high-quality 3D Revit models for electrical engineering projects

Enjoy a flexible hybrid working environment with modern tools and workflows What You'll Do 3D Modeling & Delivery * Develop accurate, high-quality 3D Revit models for electrical engineering projects

Job Responsibilities: The 3D Animator will create high-fidelity, cinematic animations that ... Model, texture, shade, and light assets for high-quality scientific and technical visualization

NX CAD Modeler

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$52 - $67/hr

... Modeling Team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and iterating detailed 3D models and assemblies of battery packs, modules, enclosures, and associated components using Siemens NX ...

Partner closely with industrial design, engineering, and manufacturing teams to translate design intent into precise, high-quality 3D CAD models. * Apply advanced surfacing techniques to sculpt ...

Showing results 21-40

3D Modeling information

See California salary details

$39K

$77.4K

$122.9K

How much do 3d modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d modeling in California is $77,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,700.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get with 3D modeling?

With 3D modeling skills, you can pursue roles such as 3D artist, character designer, product designer, architectural visualizer, or game developer. These jobs often require proficiency in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max and may involve working in industries such as entertainment, architecture, manufacturing, or advertising.

Is 3D modeling a good career?

3D modeling is a viable career that involves creating digital representations of objects and environments using software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. It is in demand in industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design, often requiring strong artistic skills and technical knowledge. Success typically depends on building a portfolio, staying updated with industry tools, and developing specialized skills.

What is the difference between 3D Modeling vs 3D Animation?

Aspect3D Modeling3D Animation
Primary FocusCreating static 3D objects and modelsBringing 3D models to life through movement
Skills RequiredModeling techniques, software proficiency (e.g., Blender, Maya)Animation principles, rigging, timing
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, game development, film pre-productionFilm, gaming, advertising, interactive media
Common Certifications3D modeling courses, software certificationsAnimation courses, motion design certifications

While 3D Modeling involves creating detailed static objects, 3D Animation focuses on bringing those models to life through movement and storytelling. Both roles often overlap in industries like gaming and film, but they require distinct skill sets and tools.

What is 3D modeling?

3D modeling is the process of creating a digital representation of a physical object or surface in three dimensions using specialized computer software. These digital models can be used in various industries, including video games, movies, architecture, engineering, and product design. 3D models are constructed by manipulating points, lines, and polygons to form a mesh that represents the shape of the object. The resulting models can be rendered into images, animated, or even 3D printed.

Is 3D modeling still in demand?

3D modeling remains in high demand across industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design. Skilled 3D modelers proficient in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max are sought after for creating visual assets, prototypes, and animations, with job opportunities growing as digital content expands.

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 solid understanding of visual design, spatial awareness, and proficiency in modeling techniques, usually supported by a degree in graphic design, animation, or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, and familiarity with rendering engines or game engines, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure high-quality, visually appealing models that meet technical and artistic requirements in fields like gaming, film, and product design.

How do I get into 3D modeling?

To get into 3D modeling, start by learning industry-standard software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max through online tutorials or courses. Building a strong portfolio of your work and understanding fundamental concepts like anatomy, lighting, and texturing are essential for entry-level positions. Gaining experience through internships, freelance projects, or personal projects can also improve your job prospects.

What are some common challenges faced by 3D modelers and how can they be addressed?

3D modelers often encounter challenges such as meeting tight deadlines, managing complex project requirements, and ensuring compatibility with different rendering engines or software. Effective time management and clear communication with designers, animators, and other team members can help address these issues. Staying updated on industry-standard tools and techniques also enables modelers to work more efficiently and produce high-quality assets that fit seamlessly into larger projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Modeling jobs in California? The most popular types of 3D Modeling jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to 3D Modeling jobs in California? For 3D Modeling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Modeling jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Modeling jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for 3D Modeling jobs? Cities in California with the most 3D Modeling job openings:
Infographic showing various 3D Modeling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,445 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Entry Level Steel Detailer/3D Modeler

Nucor

Lathrop, CA • On-site

$23.53 - $24.68/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Nucor rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Details:

Division: Nucor Buildings Group West LLC

Location: Lathrop, CA United States  

Other Available Locations: N/A

Hourly Pay Range: $23.53- $24.68

Return on Asset Eligible: Up to 33% of annual eligible earnings

Profit Share 5-year Average: 20.17% of eligible yearly earnings

Nucor Buildings Group is seeking enthusiastic and detail-oriented candidates for the position of 3D Modeler/Steel
Detailer. This full-time, entry-level role is responsible for drafting all components of a custom metal building
including the steel framing, wall panel systems, roof panel systems, and all associated flashings and trims to
ensure all components fit together correctly as part of a complete design solution.

Basic Job Functions:
  • 2D/3D Modeling: Develop electronic models of custom buildings using advanced drafting software.
  • Draft Construction Anchor Bolt Drawings: Generate precise drawings for construction anchor bolts.
  • Produce Permit/Approval Drawings: Prepare detailed drawings required for permits and approvals.
  • Generate Shop Drawings and Reports: Create comprehensive shop drawings and reports for our in-house
    fabrication and production teams.
  • Develop Erection Drawings and Bill of Materials: Produce detailed erection drawings and bills of materials for
    use in field construction.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to visualize in a 3D environment.
  • High school Diploma or Equivalent.
  • Must be seeking full-time employment. No part-time roles available at this time.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship now or in the future.
  • Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance to the office or be willing to relocate at personal expense. Relocation assistance is not available for this position
  • Willingness to complete an in-person assessment as part of the hiring process. The assessment will take place at our facility in Lathrop, CA.
Compensation and Benefits

Nucor is a Pay for Performance Company with compensation for this role starting @ $23.53/Hour.

Additionally, be sure to ask your talent specialist about our bonus structure!

  • Paid On the Job Training
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Stock purchase plan
  • Annual Bonus plan
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Flexibility with working hours based on performance.
About Us:

Nucor Buildings Group (NBG), a proud Nucor product group, is one of North America's largest and most
experienced manufacturers of metal building systems. With multiple locations throughout the United States, NBG
is proud to design world-class building solutions tailored to meet the needs of any market including commercial,
industrial, agricultural, and institutional. Our brands include American Buildings, CBC Steel Buildings, Kirby
Building Systems, and Nucor Building Systems.
NBG offers work/life balance and a variety of benefits and performance incentives. We take pride in connecting
teammates to meaningful work and focus heavily on both personal and professional development. Whether your
background is in engineering and design, information technology and software development, marketing, or sales,
with Nucor Buildings Group you can go as far as your drive and ambition will take you.

Why Nucor?

When you join Nucor, America's largest steel manufacturer and recycler, you'll help create a variety of steel
products that become so much more, for so many people.  And you won't do it alone.  Our supportive culture
builds each other up, values family, relationships, and puts safety above anything else.  With the freedom to take
your ideas to the next level, there's no end to what you can achieve.  This is your chance to build a lifelong career,
give back to your community, make the world a better place - and BE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER.

Job Security - Benefits - Bonus Program

With performance-based compensation, profit sharing, and a no-layoff practice, we take care of our teammates
who design, engineer, fabricate, and support the products that define our company. 


What Nucor employees say

Pay

Benefits

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Workplace

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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

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