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Entry 3D Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

3D Environmental Artist

Orlando, FL · On-site

Description The 3D Environmental Artist is an entry-to-mid-level technical artist responsible for ... Create and modify 3D models for airport terminals, control towers, hangars, buildings, signage ...

SAIC

3D Environmental Artist

Orlando, FL

ORA_ON_SITE Description The 3D Environmental Artist is an entry-to-mid-level technical artist ... Create and modify 3D models for airport terminals, control towers, hangars, buildings, signage ...

DURAVANT LLC

Student Intern - Engineering

Batavia, OH · On-site

$14.85 - $22.40/hr

... 3D Assembly modeling of new and existing products * Part modeling and manufacturing detail drawings * Exploded view and Bill of Material creation * Bill of Material entry and revision * Revision of ...

Duravant

Student Intern - Engineering

Batavia, OH · On-site

$14.85 - $22.40/hr

... 3D Assembly modeling of new and existing products * Part modeling and manufacturing detail drawings * Exploded view and Bill of Material creation * Bill of Material entry and revision * Revision of ...

W3Global Inc.

Custom Cut Sauna Drafter

Lewisburg, WV

$25 - $28/hr

... 3D models and technical drawings. * Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word, including data organization, documentation, and reporting. * Experience with data entry and business systems, including ...

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Entry 3D Modeling information

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$39.5K

$78.5K

$124.5K

How much do entry 3d modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry 3d modeling in the United States is $78,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry 3D modeling?

Entry 3D modeling jobs are positions that involve creating basic three-dimensional digital models, often for use in video games, animation, architecture, or product design. These roles are typically suited for individuals who are new to the field and may require proficiency in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. Tasks often include modeling simple objects, texturing, and rendering under the guidance of more experienced artists. Entry-level 3D modelers usually work as part of a larger design or development team and have opportunities to learn and advance their skills on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry 3D modeler?

To thrive as an Entry 3D Modeler, you need a solid understanding of 3D modeling principles, spatial awareness, and basic knowledge of art or design, often gained through a degree or coursework in a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Blender, Autodesk Maya, or 3ds Max, and knowledge of file formats and rendering engines, is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for standing out in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of high-quality, visually appealing models that meet project specifications and client expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level 3D modelers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level 3D modelers often encounter challenges such as mastering new software tools, adapting to varying project requirements, and ensuring models meet technical and artistic standards. To overcome these, it's helpful to seek feedback from more experienced team members, regularly practice with industry-standard tools like Blender or Maya, and stay updated with the latest modeling techniques. Collaborating closely with designers and animators also helps in understanding how 3D assets fit into the overall production pipeline, leading to more effective and efficient workflows.

What is the difference between Entry 3D Modeling vs Entry 3D Animation?

AspectEntry 3D ModelingEntry 3D Animation
Primary FocusCreating 3D models and objectsBringing 3D models to life through movement
Skills RequiredModeling, texturing, basic software knowledgeModeling, rigging, keyframing, timing
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, game development, filmAnimation studios, game design, film production
Common CertificationsNone mandatory, software proficiency preferredNone mandatory, software proficiency preferred

While both roles involve working with 3D software, Entry 3D Modeling focuses on creating static 3D objects, whereas Entry 3D Animation emphasizes bringing those objects to life through movement and timing. Understanding these differences helps aspiring professionals choose the right path based on their interests and skills.

More about Entry 3D Modeling jobs

What states have the most Entry 3D Modeling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry 3D Modeling jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry 3D Modeling jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry 3D Modeling jobs are:

Entry 3D Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry 3D Modeling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $78,472 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

3D Environmental Artist

SAIC

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 225 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
The 3D Environmental Artist is an entry-to-mid-level technical artist responsible for supporting the development, modification, and maintenance of airport Visual Databases (VDBs). Working under the direction of a senior VDB Developer, this individual creates and refines 3D assets, terrain features, airport infrastructure, environmental elements, and supporting visual content that contribute to realistic, operationally accurate airport environments.
This position focuses on implementing the senior VDB Developer's vision by constructing detailed airport environments, creating high-quality 3D assets, and ensuring visual fidelity while meeting real-time simulation performance requirements.
Key Responsibilities
3D Asset Development:
  • Create and modify 3D models for airport terminals, control towers, hangars, buildings, signage, lighting, fencing, vehicles, and surrounding infrastructure.
  • Produce optimized assets suitable for real-time simulation while maintaining high visual quality.
  • Create and apply textures, materials, and lighting using modern PBR workflows.
  • Develop reusable asset libraries for common airport structures and environmental objects.
Airport Environment Construction:
  • Assemble airport environments from source imagery, engineering drawings, GIS data, and reference photography.
  • Place and align airport objects according to the design guidance provided by senior VDB Developers.
  • Build terrain features, roadways, parking areas, vegetation, and surrounding landmarks.
  • Implement runway markings, taxiway signage, lighting systems, and airport infrastructure.
  • Support development of airport environments for all designated FAA Air Traffic Control Towers (ATCTs).
Visual Refinement & Optimization:
  • Improve visual quality through texture refinement, lighting adjustments, and asset optimization.
  • Support development of environmental effects including day/night operations, seasonal conditions, and weather visualization.
  • Assist with animation of environmental objects and airport assets where required.
  • Optimize models to maintain required simulation performance.
Quality Assurance Support:
  • Verify models for proper scale, placement, texture mapping, and rendering performance.
  • Correct visual defects identified during QA reviews.
  • Participate in iterative design reviews with senior developers and subject matter experts.
  • Ensure all assets comply with established modeling, naming, and performance standards.
Repository & Configuration Support:
  • Maintain models, textures, and supporting files within the program configuration management system.
  • Follow version control procedures for all visual assets.
  • Package assets for integration into the Visual Database.
  • Maintain organized project documentation and asset libraries.
Collaboration:
  • Work closely with senior VDB Developers, Scenario Developers, Systems Engineers, and software developers.
  • Participate in Agile sprint planning, backlog refinement, and design reviews.
  • Support rapid implementation of airport modifications and visual updates.

Qualifications
Required Education:
  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields:
    • Computer Graphics
    • Game Art
    • Digital Media
    • Animation
    • Visual Effects (VFX)
    • Environmental Design
    • Architecture
    • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
    • A related technical or artistic discipline
  • An Associate's degree, technical certification, portfolio, or equivalent practical experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
Required Experience:
  • Professional experience is preferred but not required. Ideal candidates will demonstrate knowledge, coursework, internships, or personal project work in one or more of the following areas:
    • 3D modeling, rendering, or environment creation for games, simulation, visualization, or digital media.
    • Modern 3D modeling software such as Blender, Autodesk 3ds Max, Maya, or equivalent
    • Creation of optimized assets for real-time rendering
    • Physically Based Rendering (PBR) materials and texturing workflows
    • Interpretation of aerial imagery, engineering drawings, or reference photography
    • Basic understanding of version control systems
  • A strong portfolio demonstrating technical ability and artistic quality may be considered in lieu of professional experience.
Required Clearance:
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.
Preferred Experience:
  • Flight simulation scenery development (Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane, Prepar3D, DCS, etc.)
  • Airport scenery creation or aviation-related environments
  • Unreal Engine or Unity
  • GIS data processing and terrain development
  • OpenFlight or Common Database (CDB/OpenCDB)
  • Familiarity with FAA airport diagrams and aviation charting
  • Experience working in Agile software development environments
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Proficiency with 3D modeling and texturing tools such as Blender, Autodesk 3ds Max, Maya, or equivalent
  • Understanding of real-time rendering and performance optimization techniques
  • Ability to accurately implement designs and direction provided by senior VDB Developers
  • Strong artistic eye for detail, scale, lighting, and environmental realism
  • Ability to rapidly incorporate review feedback and iterate on designs
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Collaborative team player capable of working across multidisciplinary teams including VDB Developers, Scenario Developers, Systems Engineers, and software developers

Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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