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Contract 3D Designer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Estimator

Rochester, NY · Hybrid

$107K - $190K/yr

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Contract 3D Designer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$9

$28

$50

How much do contract 3d designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract 3d designer in Rochester, NY is $28.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract 3D designer?

Contract 3D Designers are professionals who create three-dimensional visualizations, models, or animations for clients on a contract or freelance basis. They typically work on a variety of projects, such as product prototypes, architectural renderings, video game assets, or marketing materials. Instead of being full-time employees, contract 3D designers are hired for specific projects or time periods, offering flexibility to both themselves and their clients. Their work often involves using specialized software like Blender, 3ds Max, or Maya to bring ideas to life digitally. The demand for contract 3D designers spans industries like entertainment, architecture, advertising, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract 3D designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract 3D Designer, you need strong 3D modeling, rendering, and visualization skills, typically backed by a degree in design, architecture, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk 3ds Max, Blender, Maya, or SketchUp, and familiarity with rendering engines like V-Ray or Unreal Engine, are essential. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication help you interpret client needs and collaborate remotely with diverse teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality, on-time design solutions that meet client specifications in a competitive, project-based environment.

What are some common challenges contract 3D designers face when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Contract 3D Designers often juggle several projects at once, each with unique requirements and deadlines. Balancing client expectations, adapting to different design styles, and managing overlapping timelines can be challenging. Clear communication, effective time management, and setting realistic milestones are essential for success. Additionally, Contract 3D Designers frequently need to quickly learn new workflows or software based on client needs, making adaptability a valuable asset.

What is the difference between Contract 3D Designer vs 3D Artist?

AspectContract 3D Designer3D Artist
CredentialsPortfolio, relevant design experience, sometimes certificationsPortfolio, artistic skills, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, client-specific, often freelance or contractualStudio, freelance, or in-house, varies widely
Industry UsageArchitecture, product design, advertising, gamingEntertainment, gaming, film, advertising
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on contractual work, design skills, project scopeFocus on artistic ability, portfolio, creative style

While both roles involve creating 3D visuals, a Contract 3D Designer typically works on specific projects for clients, emphasizing design and technical skills within a contractual framework. A 3D Artist often focuses on artistic expression, creating visuals for entertainment or media. The choice depends on whether the emphasis is on design execution or artistic creation.

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

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

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

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

Team Leader, Highway Design

Popli Design Group

Rochester, NY • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

Popli Design Group (PDG) is seeking a Team Leader in the Highway Design Department. PDG offers a growth perspective and develops staff through direct mentorship and learning atmosphere. PDG's collaborative department leverages experience while developing ourselves into the best people we can be.


The desired individual will lead civil roadway and transportation projects and be responsible for overseeing and mentoring junior staff on design projects. The individual will work with multidisciplinary project teams and will apply their experience of geometric roadway design, pavements, utilities, and design standards and guidelines on projects for government agencies in New York State and NYC.


Responsibilities:

  • Manages the preparation of design calculations and details
  • Manages the preparation of contract plans and specifications
  • Manages the preparation of construction cost estimates
  • Manages the review of construction submittals
  • Performs occasional field visits to collect data and evaluate existing conditions
  • Performs occasional field visits to resolve construction issues
  • Performs oral presentations on technical topics to the public and other engineers
  • Participates in business development activities
  • Mentors junior staff
  • Possesses advanced knowledge of applicable engineering principles and techniques
  • Effectively expresses thoughts and ideas both verbally and in writing in the English language
  • Proficient in the use of applicable highway design computer software
  • Performs assigned tasks accurately and efficiently
  • Is an active and supportive team member
  • Understand basic highway safety requirements
  • Able to lead multiple projects


Required Skills:

  • Proficiency with roadway and highway modelling applications including Civil 3D and OpenRoads Designer.
  • Proficiency with or working knowledge of NYCDOT, NYSDOT, NYSTA and NYDDC design requirements and guidelines.
  • Proficiency with or working knowledge of AASHTO A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, 7th Edition and Roadside Design Guide, 4th Edition.
  • Proficiency with or working knowledge of FHWA
  • Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with project team members and clients.
  • Strong technical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail, accuracy, and completeness.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and prioritize as required.
  • Ability to progress technical concepts from inception through final design with minimum oversight and serve as a technical resource to staff and upper management.
  • Ability to lead and manage small projects and teams and prioritize multiple assignments with multiple disciplines.
  • A desire to learn and embrace technology to improve workflows and internal design process.
  • Ability and enthusiasm to work in a collaborative office setting.
  • Desire to embrace and adhere to the PDG quality culture in all aspects of design.
  • Understand basic safety requirements and motivation to uphold PDG safety culture.


Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering.
  • 10 to 20 years of progressive experience in the field.
  • NYS PE license required
  • A Valid Driver's License and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) is required.


Work Environment:

  • Professional office environment
  • Occasional work outside of the office at project sites
  • Travels occasionally within NY State and surrounding areas
  • Interacts primarily with other PDG personnel and all PDG Clients
  • Receives supervision, training, and mentoring from the Highway Design Department Manager


Physical Demands:

  • This job requires prolonged periods of sitting at a computer
  • This job requires the ability to lift up to 25lbs


About Popli Design Group (PDG)

PDG is a well-established multi-disciplinary architecture and engineering firm that has been serving clients since 1982. With four decades of experience and expertise, we have evolved from a transportation engineering firm to a comprehensive, full-service organization with seven office locations in New York State. Our extensive portfolio of successful projects has earned us a trusted reputation among our clients.


If you are seeking a dynamic and rewarding career in the architecture and engineering field, PDG will offer you exciting opportunities to work on impactful projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and contribute to our continued success. As a certified minority-owned business enterprise (MBE) in New York, we embrace diversity and foster an inclusive work environment. Together, we can shape a future of innovative design, engineering excellence, and client & employee satisfaction.


Join us at Popli Design Group and be part of our journey towards excellence!

Popli Design Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetics, disability or protected veteran status, and any other basis protected by applicable local, state, or federal law or Executive Orders.


Good faith salary range is provided, and salary package will be commensurate with experience and position location.