1

3D Rendering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Rendering Engine Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$151K - $199K/yr

Apple Maps offers a constantly evolving and increasingly detailed 3D world, and our team renders ... We're looking for a Senior Rendering Engine Software Engineer who is excited by the challenge of ...

Senior Software Engineer, ICX Graphics

Mountain View, CA · Hybrid

$165K - $204K/yr

Lead the design and implementation of the 3D rendering pipeline for the 3D Car View on the Android-based in-car system using C++ and Kotlin via JNI. * Integrate next-generation visual assets for the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

3D Rendering information

See California salary details

$19

$38

$67

How much do 3d rendering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3d rendering in California is $38.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $47.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do 3D renderers make?

3D renderers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized renderers with advanced skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max can earn higher salaries, especially in competitive markets or with additional certifications.

How to become a 3D renderer?

To become a 3D renderer, develop skills in 3D modeling and rendering software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. Obtain a relevant degree or certification in computer graphics or digital art, build a strong portfolio showcasing your work, and gain experience through internships or freelance projects to improve your skills and industry knowledge.

What is a 3D Rendering job?

A 3D Rendering job involves creating realistic or stylized digital images of objects, environments, or scenes using specialized software. Professionals in this field use 3D modeling, lighting, texturing, and rendering techniques to produce visuals for industries like architecture, gaming, product design, and marketing. They may work with clients, designers, or engineers to bring concepts to life through photorealistic or artistic representations. Strong technical skills in software like Blender, 3ds Max, or V-Ray are essential. The role may also involve optimizing renders for different media, ensuring high-quality output.

What jobs require 3D rendering?

Jobs that require 3D rendering include 3D artist, architectural visualizer, game designer, product designer, and visual effects artist. These roles often involve creating realistic or stylized 3D models and scenes using software like Blender, 3ds Max, or Maya, and may require skills in modeling, texturing, and lighting. 3D rendering is essential in industries such as architecture, gaming, film, advertising, and product development.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in 3D Rendering?

Professionals in 3D Rendering spend their days creating and refining 3D models, applying textures and materials, setting up lighting, and generating high-quality images or animations based on project requirements. They often collaborate closely with designers, architects, animators, and project managers to ensure visual outputs align with the overall creative vision. Daily tasks may include adjusting render settings, troubleshooting technical issues, reviewing feedback from clients or supervisors, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. This dynamic workflow helps develop both technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3D Rendering position, and why are they important?

To thrive in 3D Rendering, you need strong skills in 3D modeling, lighting, texturing, and rendering concepts, often supported by a degree or certification in graphics, animation, or a related field. Expertise in software such as Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender, Maya, V-Ray, or Unreal Engine is typically required, alongside knowledge of rendering workflows and file formats. Attention to detail, creativity, time management, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications are important because they ensure the delivery of visually compelling and technically accurate imagery that meets client or project specifications on deadline.

Is 3D rendering a good career?

3D rendering is a viable career for those skilled in computer graphics, modeling, and software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. It offers opportunities in industries like architecture, gaming, film, and product design, often requiring a strong portfolio and proficiency in rendering techniques. Job stability and growth depend on industry demand and individual skill development.
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Rendering jobs in California? The most popular types of 3D Rendering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to 3D Rendering jobs in California? For 3D Rendering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for 3D Rendering jobs? Cities in California with the most 3D Rendering job openings:
Infographic showing various 3D Rendering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,995 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Machine Learning Engineer - 3D Sensor Simulation

Zoox

Foster City, CA • On-site

$176K - $257K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

In this role, you will:
  • Research, implement, and optimize state of the art 3D rendering of sensor data, leveraging GenAI/ML and 3D graphics.
  • Develop realism metrics with V&V to show measurable impact of your improved sensor fidelity.
  • Collaborate with Perception and Safety teams to improve realism of sensor simulation for high fidelity synthetic data.
  • Improve rendering and ML inference tooling for generating realistic data at scale.

Qualifications
  • 2+ years of industry experience, and/or PhD, developing neural rendering techniques like Gaussian Splatting, NeRFs, or 3D reconstruction
  • 2+ years of experience developing software with Python and/or modern C++
  • Expertise with machine learning frameworks PyTorch or Tensorflow
  • Familiarity with 3D graphics algorithms, such as 3D geometry and camera models
  • Strong mathematical skills and understanding of 3D linear algebra and probabilistic techniques

Bonus Qualifications
  • Master's or PhD in computer science, mathematics, physics, or related field
  • Experience with generative models for 3D content pipelines using applications like Houdini, Maya, or Blender.
  • Experience in 3D rendering for simulation, games, cloud computing, or VFX

$176,000 - $257,000 a year
About Zoox
Zoox is developing the first ground-up, fully autonomous vehicle fleet and the supporting ecosystem required to bring this technology to market. Sitting at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and design, Zoox aims to provide the next generation of mobility-as-a-service in urban environments. We're looking for top talent that shares our passion and wants to be part of a fast-moving and highly execution-oriented team.
Follow us on LinkedIn
Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to [email protected] or your assigned recruiter.
A Final Note:
You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Zoox, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.