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3D Simulation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NVIDIA

Senior Software Engineer - Simulation

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Responsibilities : • Build, develop, and maintain scalable 3D simulation software for Digital Twin and Synthetic Data Generation applications. • Collaborate with multi-functional teams to build ...

NVIDIA

Senior Software Engineer - Simulation

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Responsibilities : • Build, develop, and maintain scalable 3D simulation software for Digital Twin and Synthetic Data Generation applications. • Collaborate with multi-functional teams to build ...

Nvidia

Senior Software Engineer - Simulation

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$143K - $189K/yr

Build, develop, and maintain scalable 3D simulation software for Digital Twin and Synthetic Data Generation applications. * Collaborate with multi-functional teams to build backend services and AI ...

Autodesk

Senior 3D/VFX Artist, Small Business

Irvine, CA · On-site

$113K - $129K/yr

You will work across concept development, 3D simulation, compositing, editing, and final delivery to create compelling content that balances storytelling, clarity, and technical accuracy. We are ...

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3D Simulation information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$121.8K

$188K

How much do 3d simulation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d simulation in California is $121,783.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in a 3D Simulation role, you need strong knowledge of 3D modeling, simulation software, mathematics, and physics, often supported by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Unity, Unreal Engine, or MATLAB, as well as experience with programming languages like Python or C++, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers. These competencies ensure you can accurately create, test, and refine realistic simulations that meet project specifications and facilitate collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Is 3D modeling still in demand?

3D modeling remains in demand across industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design. Professionals skilled in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max, along with a strong portfolio, are often sought after for roles involving 3D simulation and visualization.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a professional working in 3D Simulation?

As a 3D Simulation professional, your day-to-day tasks often involve developing and refining 3D models, programming simulation behaviors, conducting tests, and troubleshooting issues to ensure accuracy and performance. You may collaborate closely with engineers, designers, or project managers to translate real-world scenarios into digital environments and iterate on prototype simulations based on feedback. Documentation, version control, and staying updated with the latest software advancements are also common aspects of the role. This dynamic workflow allows you to contribute to a wide range of projects, from training applications in aerospace to product design and virtual reality experiences.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the field of 3D simulation, senior roles such as Lead 3D Artist, Simulation Director, or Technical Director can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in software like Unreal Engine or Unity, and work in industries like gaming, film, or aerospace. These positions often require a strong portfolio, leadership abilities, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size.

What is a 3D Simulation job?

A 3D Simulation job involves creating digital models that replicate real-world objects, environments, or processes to analyze and predict behaviors in a virtual space. Professionals in this field use specialized software to simulate physics, motion, and interactions for industries such as engineering, gaming, healthcare, and manufacturing. Responsibilities may include developing simulation models, optimizing designs, and validating system performance. These simulations help reduce development costs, enhance product design, and improve decision-making before real-world implementation.

Will 3D modelers be replaced by AI?

3D modelers play a crucial role in creating detailed and customized 3D models, and while AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and generating basic models, they are unlikely to fully replace skilled 3D modelers. Human expertise remains essential for complex, creative, and high-quality work, especially in industries like gaming, film, and simulation. Proficiency in modeling software and understanding of design principles are important for staying competitive.

Is 3D modeling a high paying job?

3D modeling can be a well-paying career, especially for experienced professionals working in industries like gaming, film, or product design. Salaries vary based on skill level, industry, location, and whether the individual is freelance or employed by a company, with advanced skills in software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max often commanding higher pay.
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3D Simulation jobs near you

Senior / Staff 3D Engine Software Engineer - Simulation

Zoox

Foster City, CA • On-site

$245K - $305K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Zoox 3D Sensor Simulation team’s work is at the core of creating in-the-loop simulation and high fidelity synthetic data for training and testing autonomous vehicle AI. We are looking for a 3D Engine professional who spans both modern 3DGS techniques and traditional 3D graphics, including ray tracing and PBR rendering.

This role lies at the heart of 3D simulation at Zoox, ranging from cinema-quality offline rendering for software-in-the-loop (SIL) simulation, to optimized realtime 3D graphics for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation. With sensor simulation (cameras, lidar, and radar,), you’ll enable the Zoox robotics autonomy stack to learn, improve, and enhance the mobility of humans.

In this role, you will:

  • Design, implement, and validate 3D rendering software for sensor simulation deployed in autonomous vehicle (AV) simulation pipelines.

  • Collaborate with Synthetic Data and HIL Sim teams to develop rendering novel applications that combine 3DGS and polygonal mesh assets.

  • Optimize performance and realism of realtime 3D sensor simulation, including cameras, lidar, and radar.

  • Partner with Sim V&V engineers to improve metrics ranging from individual sensor fidelity to real-world AV safety reports.

  • Lead 3D simulation engineers and establish best practices to steadily improve trustability and test coverage of SIL/HIL simulation use cases.

Qualifications:

  • 2+ years of prior experience as a Technical Lead

  • 7+ years of experience developing C++, Python, and GPU programming

  • Experience integrating 3DGS implementations with traditional 3D graphics rendering

  • Solid understanding of high performance real time simulation pipelines

Bonus Qualifications:
  • Expertise with GPU programming, such as Compute shaders or CUDA

  • Experience with sensor calibration, including cameras, lidar, and/or radar

  • Experience with verification and validation (V&V) for autonomous systems

  • Prior experience developing autonomy in AVs or other robotics and computer vision 

There are three major components to compensation for this position: salary, Amazon Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), and Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights. A sign-on bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package. The listed range applies only to the base salary. Compensation will vary based on geographic location and level. Leveling, as well as positioning within a level, is determined by a range of factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's relevant years of experience, domain knowledge, and interview performance. The salary range listed in this posting is representative of the range of levels Zoox is considering for this position.

Zoox also offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off (e.g. sick leave, vacation, bereavement), unpaid time off, Zoox Stock Appreciation Rights, Amazon RSUs, health insurance, long-term care insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance, and life insurance.

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.

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Accommodations
If you need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process please reach out to accommodations@zoox.com 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.