1

3D Modeling Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Blender Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Blender Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines.

Work on multiple POCs acrossAgenticAI, mobile, data science, visualization, and 3D modeling. * Build and refine agentic AI systems, including conversational agentic avatars. * Developand ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer | Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Manufacturing Engineer role is ideal for an engineer with strong 3D modeling skills, hands‑on continuous improvement leadership, and experience supporting and guiding maintenance functions ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer | Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Manufacturing Engineer position is well suited for an engineer with strong 3D modeling expertise, proven continuous improvement leadership experience, and a background supporting maintenance ...

New

Designer

Crown Point, IN · Hybrid

$36.06 - $57.69/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Designer Develop 2D drawings and 3D models for utility piping systems, specifically in natural gas engineering and design. Produce piping layouts, isometrics, equipment arrangements, sections ...

Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Audition, Premiere Pro primarily) as well as 3D modeling and rendering software. * Experience in animation, script ...

Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Audition, Premiere Pro primarily) as well as 3D modeling and rendering software. Experience in animation, script ...

3D Substation Physical Designer 3 - Grid

Chicago, IL · On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Using SDS to prepare a 3D Model that would generate the following drawing: General Arrangement, Electrical Equipment Plans, Sections, Electrical Connection Details, Foundation Plans, Grounding Plans ...

Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Audition, Premiere Pro primarily) as well as 3D modeling and rendering software. * Experience in animation, script ...

Mechanical Designer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Develop 3D models in Revit of equipment, ductwork, and piping using applicable standards, project technical specifications, and project procedures. * Generate and annotate HVAC, Plumbing, and Piping ...

System Engineer

Buffalo Grove, IL · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

... 3D modeling, mechanical layouts, and reporting Prepare technical documentation to support product designs Work with outside vendors to optimize design and obtain production/tooling costs Assist field ...

Skilled at teaching 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering workflows in 3DS Max. Guides students through building polygon and spline-based models, applying and editing materials, setting up studio and ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering workflows in 3DS Max. Guides students through building polygon and spline-based models, applying and editing materials, setting up studio and ...

Showing results 21-40

3D Modeling information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$80.9K

$128.4K

How much do 3d modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d modeling in Chicago, IL is $80,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $101,000.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of 3D Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to 3D Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL? For 3D Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for 3D Modeling jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most 3D Modeling job openings:
Infographic showing various 3D Modeling job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,902 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Blender Tutor

Varsity Tutors

Buffalo Grove, IL • Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Varsity Tutors rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 24 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

About the Job
The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Blender tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, earn competitive rates, and make a real impact on students' academic success and understanding. All from the comfort of your home.
Why Join Our Platform?
  • Earn incrementally higher pay for each session with the same student, reaching up to $40/hour.
  • Get paid up to twice per week, ensuring fast and reliable compensation for the tutoring sessions you conduct and invoice.
  • Set your own hours and tutor as much as you'd like.
  • Tutor remotely using our purpose-built Live Learning Platform. No commuting required.
  • Get matched with students best-suited to your teaching style and expertise.
  • Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson generation, and engagement features, helping you save prep time and focus on impactful teaching.
  • We handle the logistics—you just invoice for your tutoring sessions, and we take care of payments.

What We Look For In a Blender Tutor
  • Advanced Subject Mastery: Deep knowledge of Blender 3D modeling, sculpting, UV unwrapping, texturing, materials with shader nodes, lighting, rigging, animation, physics simulation, and rendering with Cycles and Eevee engines. Ability to explain polygon modeling workflows, procedural texturing, and compositing while preparing students for 3D art, game development, animation, and visual effects careers.
  • Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching 3D modeling techniques, material creation, and animation workflows in Blender. Guides students through box modeling, sculpting organic forms, unwrapping UVs, building shader node materials, setting up lighting, rigging characters, animating with keyframes, and rendering final output. Emphasizes understanding the full 3D production pipeline and connects Blender skills to indie game development, motion graphics, and digital art creation.
  • Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar with Blender curricula and common challenges such as navigating the interface, understanding 3D space manipulation, and creating clean topology for animation. Adapts instruction using progressive modeling tutorials, project-based learning, and render workflow exercises to support students from complete 3D beginners through advanced users developing professional modeling, animation, and rendering skills.
  • Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet individual learning needs and styles.
  • Strong communication skills and a friendly, engaging teaching style.
  • Ability to adapt to different learning styles and student needs.

Ways To Connect With Students
  • 1-on-1 Online Tutoring - Provide personalized instruction to individual students.
  • Instant Tutoring - Accept on-demand tutoring requests whenever you're available.

About Varsity Tutors And 1-on-1 Online Tutoring
Our mission is to transform the way people learn by leveraging advanced technology, AI, and the latest in learning science to create personalized learning experiences. Through 1-on-1 Online Tutoring, students receive customized instruction that helps them achieve their learning goals. Our platform is designed to match students with the right tutors, fostering better outcomes and a passion for learning.
Please note: Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia or Puerto Rico.

What Varsity Tutors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom