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Computer Generated Imagery Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Computer Generated Imagery information

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$20.6K

$64.8K

$155.2K

How much do computer generated imagery jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer generated imagery in California is $64,802.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,169.00 and $69,525.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computer generated imagery?

A Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) job involves creating visual content using computer software. CGI professionals work in industries like film, gaming, advertising, and architecture to produce 3D models, animations, visual effects, and digital environments. They use tools like Blender, Maya, or Unreal Engine to design realistic or stylized imagery. These roles require artistic and technical skills, including knowledge of rendering, texturing, and lighting.

What does a computer generated imagery artist do?

A CGI artist's day often includes tasks like creating 3D models, developing textures, animating scenes, and collaborating with directors and other designers to bring projects to life. You may also be required to review feedback, refine your work based on client or supervisor input, and ensure that graphics meet technical requirements and project deadlines. In many organizations, CGI artists work closely with teams in visual effects, post-production, and even sound or lighting departments for a cohesive final product. Attention to detail, flexibility in workflow, and the ability to troubleshoot technical challenges are key aspects of a typical workday.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in computer generated imagery?

To thrive in Computer Generated Imagery (CGI), a solid background in digital art, 3D modeling, animation, and visual effects, often supported by a degree in computer graphics, animation, or a related field, is essential. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Adobe After Effects, and familiarity with scripting languages or rendering engines is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, creativity, teamwork, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in collaborative, deadline-driven environments. These qualifications ensure the creation of high-quality visual assets that meet project goals in film, gaming, advertising, or other media industries.

How do you become a computer generated imagery artist?

To become a computer generated imagery (CGI) artist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in computer graphics, animation, or a related field, along with strong skills in 3D modeling, rendering, and animation software such as Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max. Building a portfolio of your work and gaining experience through internships or freelance projects are important steps in establishing a career in CGI art.

Is computer generated imagery in demand?

Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) is in high demand across industries such as film, gaming, advertising, and virtual reality, driven by advancements in technology and increasing use of visual effects. Professionals skilled in 3D modeling, animation, and software like Maya or Blender are sought after, with job opportunities growing as digital content becomes more prevalent.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Generated Imagery jobs in California?

For Computer Generated Imagery jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Generated Imagery jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Generated Imagery jobs in California are:

Computer Generated Imagery jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Generated Imagery job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,802 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Sr. CAD Modeler & Visualization Specialist

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

Astrolab
See more jobs at Astrolabexternal

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Sr. CAD Modeler & Visualization Specialist
Department: Marketing
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Hawthorne, California
Compensation: $140,000 - $160,000 / year
Description
Astrolab is The Lunar Operations Company. We design and build the systems and hardware the lunar economy will come to depend on - rovers, power, and data networks for sustained operations on the Moon. We are focused on the problems that must be solved before the next chapter of human exploration can scale. The Moon does not forgive untested assumptions. The people who work here know that, and they wouldn't have it any other way.
As a CAD Modeler & Visualization Specialist at Astrolab, you will be the technical execution engine of our design and marketing efforts. At Astrolab, our design function operates within a studio model embedded inside the Marketing organization. We believe that design sits at the intersection of engineering and brand; it is the visual language that translates our technical DNA into a consistent identity that defines a market. You will work day-to-day with our Fractional Chief Creative Director (a world-class automotive ID designer) and our Head of Marketing, taking raw engineering geometry and transforming it into beautiful, accurate, and compelling visual assets.
In this role, you will serve both the design team and the marketing organization. Your output-from Class A surfacing to photorealistic KeyShot renders-will be the primary way the world sees our rovers before they launch. You will bridge the gap between complex aerospace engineering and high-impact brand communication.
What you'll do:
Modeling & Surfacing
  • Class A Modeling: Utilize Alias to create high-quality, production-ready surfaces from initial design concepts and engineering data
  • Geometry Translation: Take complex, constraint-heavy CAD data from the engineering team and optimize it for visualization and design iteration
  • Form Refinement: Work closely with the Industrial Designer and Chief Creative Director to refine the physical forms of our hardware, ensuring they meet both aesthetic and structural requirements

Visualization & Rendering
  • Photorealistic Rendering: Produce stunning, high-fidelity renders using KeyShot, translating technical CAD into marketing-ready imagery
  • Asset Creation: Build a library of visual assets for use across investor decks, social media, press releases, and the Astrolab website
  • Compositing: Use Adobe Creative Suite to composite renders into lunar environments, ensuring lighting, scale, and context are hyper-realistic and scientifically accurate

Cross-Functional Execution
  • Engineering Liaison: Maintain a tight feedback loop with the engineering team to ensure that visualizations accurately reflect the current state of the vehicle's design and capabilities
  • Marketing Support: Deliver visual assets at the speed of a modern marketing organization, supporting campaign launches, milestone announcements, and brand initiatives

What you'll bring:
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in industrial design, transportation design, digital arts, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and professional experience
  • Experience using KeyShot for photorealistic rendering and lighting setup
  • Experience using Alias for Class A surfacing and complex geometry

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop and Illustrator, for compositing and post-production
  • Experience in transportation, robotics, automotive, aerospace, or a related industry
  • Experience working in a studio environment or with marketing and communications teams
  • Experience working with engineering constraints and CAD files generated in SolidWorks or CATIA
  • Experience with lighting, material textures, Color, Materials, and Finish (CMF), and environmental rendering
  • Experience managing multiple rendering projects and delivering assets within established deadlines

Benefits and Perks
  • Join a team of best-in-class engineers building the foundation of planetary surface exploration
  • Equity ownership in the company
  • Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and mental health support
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Flexible PTO and parental leave
  • Home office set up reimbursement
  • Weekly lunch stipend, plus complimentary snacks and beverages on-site
  • Once a month social hour on-site with food and drinks

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