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3D Modeling Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Sr. 3D CAD Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$110 - $125/hr

The high level summary of the Sr. 3D CAD Designer: model the process system (structural steel, equipment, piping, instruments) using 3D CAD and create all fabrication drawings and bills of materials ...

New

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

Blender Tutor

Rochester, NY · 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.

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Rochester, NY · 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 ...

Sketchup Tutor

Rochester, NY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of SketchUp 3D modeling including push-pull operations, follow me tool, groups and components, materials, shadows, scenes, layout for construction documentation, and rendering plugins.

BIM/VDC Manager

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$80K - $100K/yr

Our services include 3D HD Laser Scanning, Drone Photogrammetry, 3D Modeling, Training, and BIM Coordination. We help firms stay ahead of evolving technology while improving productivity and ...

Civil Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Generate accurate profiles, cross‑sections, and corridor models using Civil 3D's 3D modeling capabilities * Ensure all drawings adhere to industry standards, project requirements, and Costich CAD ...

New

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3D Modeling information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$39K

$77.4K

$122.8K

How much do 3d modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d modeling in Rochester, NY is $77,426.00, 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 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.

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.

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 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.

How do I become a 3D modeler?

To become a 3D modeler, you should develop skills in 3D modeling software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, and build a strong portfolio showcasing your work. Formal education in art, design, or computer graphics can be helpful, and gaining experience through internships or freelance projects is common. Continuous learning of new tools and techniques is essential in this evolving field.

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 in areas like animation or rendering.

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, animations, and prototypes, with job opportunities growing as technology advances. Staying updated with industry tools and techniques enhances employability in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Modeling jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of 3D Modeling jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to 3D Modeling jobs in Rochester, NY?

For 3D Modeling jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3D Modeling jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for 3D Modeling jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for 3D Modeling jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most 3D Modeling job openings:

Infographic showing various 3D Modeling job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,426 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Sr. 3D CAD Designer

GMM Pfaudler Ltd

Rochester, NY • On-site

$110 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Key responsibilities

  • Create 3D models of process systems, including equipment, piping, and instruments, using AutoCAD Plant 3D and Autodesk Advance Steel.

  • Develop 2D fabrication drawings, steel layout drawings, and piping diagrams from the 3D models for construction and fabrication.

  • Export bills of materials from the 3D models to Excel for procurement and assist in troubleshooting fabrication issues during system assembly.


Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Sr. 3D CAD Designer

Regular Full Time Rochester, NY, Rochester, NY, US

16 days ago Requisition ID: 1573

Salary Range: $110,000.00 To $125,000.00 Annually

SUMMARY OF POSITION

GMM Pfaudler US Inc. is a leading supplier of highly engineered, critical equipment and process systems for energy, chemical and industrial markets. The Systems Group within GMM Pfaudler designs and fabricates complete modular process systems including Reactor Systems, Wiped Film Evaporator (WFE) Systems, Distillation Systems, and other special process design systems.

Pfaudler is seeking an experienced 3D CAD Designer to fill the position of Sr. CAD Designer in the Systems Group located at GMM Pfaudler in Rochester, NY.

Every process system that our Systems Group designs is custom for each client’s specific needs. We work with a broad range of processes for many different industries including Specialty Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals, Petrochemicals, Polymers, and others. Our clients rely on our Systems Group to design complete chemical process systems for new their new products and for their capacity expansions of existing processes or products. For the new product systems that we design, we take the client’s laboratory or pilot test data and scale up to design a commercial scale production system. For the systems that we design for client capacity expansion, our clients rely on our Systems Group to evaluate their existing processes and improve the designs for increased capacity, improved quality and ease of operation.

The high level summary of the Sr. 3D CAD Designer: model the process system (structural steel, equipment, piping, instruments) using 3D CAD and create all fabrication drawings and bills of materials required for construction of the systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential duties include those listed below. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Designer will be responsible for the design and 3D modeling of Systems projects involving process equipment, piping and instruments. These process systems are typically skid mounted or modular, with modules ranging in size from 3’Wx4’Lx5’H to 12’Wx14’Lx60’H modules, with some very large projects consisting of multiple, combined large modules with stair towers. The 3D Designer work includes the following:

  • Work with the Process/Project Engineers (PE) to create 2D Piping & Instrument Diagrams (P&IDs) and 2D Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs).
  • Utilize the equipment specification sheets supplied by the PE and vendors to model the equipment in 3D (or use GMM Pfaudler’s existing library of user shapes or download from vendor websites).
  • Utilize the Instrument Specification Sheets supplied from the PE and vendors to model the instruments in 3D (or use GMM Pfaudler’s existing library of user shapes or download from vendor websites).
  • Develop a 3D model of a structural steel support skid/structure, using Autodesk Advance Steel, on which the equipment is mounted along with all interconnecting process and utility piping.
  • Develop the 3D model of the entire system utilizing the aforementioned and modeling all the process and utility piping using Autodesk Plant 3D.
  • From the model, the Designer creates the 2D steel layout drawings and 2D orthographic and isometric piping drawings used by our fabrication shops for construction of the systems.
  • From the model, the Designer exports the various bills of materials to Excel files to be used by the PE for procurement of all system materials. The BOMs are also used by the fabrication shops for construction of the systems.
  • During fabrication of the system, the Designer works with the PE and the shop to trouble shoot any issues with the fabrication and to make any changes in the design required by the customer or shop.
  • Designer reviews the fabricated system and creates as as-built model and drawings.
  • Some CAD administrative work is also part of the job duties (examples: project templates, pipe specs, catalogs, etc.)
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

QUALIFICATIONS

Eligible person should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience and be proficient in 3D modeling using AutoCAD with the Plant 3D toolset. Candidates with experience utilizing CAD software other than AutoCAD Plant 3D will be considered if they have extensive, relevant work experience (piping and steel design) and demonstrate general 3D computer proficiency.

Experience with structural steel design using Autodesk Advance Steel is not required but is considered a plus.

3D piping design experience is a must, structural steel design experience is considered a plus.

Experience with Caesar II (or similar) pipe stress analysis software is not required but is considered a plus.

Experience with Smart P&IDs is not required but is considered a plus.

Must be proficient with MS Word and Excel for specifications sheets and bills of materials.

Familiarity with instrumentation typically used in the chemical process industry is considered a plus.

EDUCATION

BA or AA in CAD Design is not required but considered a plus.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Must have the following language and communication skills:

  • Speak and write English proficiently.
  • Ability to communicate effectively (listen and speak) with customers, engineers and designers to understand the project requirements.
  • Communicate with vendors to get details and drawings for module components.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Must have the ability to complete basic dimensional math calculations required for the design of process systems in CAD.

REASONING ABILITY

Must have ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to be able to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Primarily the work environment is a typical office environment. The employee may also be required to enter the GMM Pfaudler or vendor workshop environments to track job progress, inspect equipment and system components and accompany customers during inspections. GMM Pfaudler has relocation benefits for a successful candidate outside the Rochester, NY; but also, remote work will be considered depending on the candidate’s experience and capabilities.

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