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Entry Level 3D Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Use computeraided design tools--including AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Plant 3D, and other applicable ... Internship or entrylevel experience supporting gas transmission or distribution projects.

Gas Designer l

San Diego, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Use computer-aided design tools-including AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Plant 3D, and other applicable ... Internship or entry-level experience supporting gas transmission or distribution projects.

This entry-level role is ideal for a designer who bridges the gap between traditional 2D design and immersive 3D visuals. You will support our creative department by producing high-quality 3D ...

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Entry Level 3D Designer information

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How much do entry level 3d designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level 3d designer in the United States is $28.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level 3D designers when working on collaborative projects?

Entry level 3D designers often find that collaborating on projects requires strong communication and adaptability, as they need to align their creative vision with the broader goals of a team that may include senior designers, engineers, and project managers. Learning to interpret feedback constructively and manage multiple revisions is a key challenge, especially when balancing deadlines and project standards. Familiarity with version control tools and asset management systems is beneficial, as these are commonly used to streamline teamwork and avoid conflicts in shared files. Embracing feedback and proactively seeking clarification can help new designers grow their skills and contribute effectively to collaborative efforts.

What is the salary of a beginner 3D artist?

Entry-level 3D designers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and skill set. Proficiency in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max can influence starting salaries, and internships or certifications may also impact initial pay.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

Entry level 3D designers can earn around $80,000 annually in industries such as video game development, film, or virtual reality, especially with specialized skills in software like Maya or Blender. Higher salaries often require experience, a strong portfolio, and proficiency in rendering, modeling, and animation. Advanced roles or those in larger companies tend to offer compensation in this range.

What is the difference between Entry Level 3D Designer vs Junior 3D Artist?

AspectEntry Level 3D DesignerJunior 3D Artist
CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certificationSimilar educational background, often with portfolio
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, advertising agencies, gaming companiesGame development, animation studios, visual effects
Job FocusBasic 3D modeling, concept visualization, assisting senior designersCreating assets, modeling, texturing under supervision

Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and work in creative environments. The Entry Level 3D Designer often focuses on foundational tasks and supporting projects, while the Junior 3D Artist may have more hands-on responsibilities in asset creation. The roles are closely aligned, with the main difference being the specific job titles used by employers.

What is an Entry Level 3D Designer?

An Entry Level 3D Designer is a professional who creates three-dimensional models, visuals, and animations using specialized software, typically at the beginning of their career. They work under the guidance of senior designers and contribute to projects in industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design. Their tasks often include modeling objects, texturing, rendering, and assisting with design revisions. Strong creativity, attention to detail, and familiarity with 3D design software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max are important skills for this role.

Is AI replacing 3D modeling?

AI is increasingly used to assist 3D designers by automating repetitive tasks and generating initial models, but it does not fully replace the need for skilled 3D designers. Entry level 3D designers still rely on their creativity, technical skills, and knowledge of software like Blender or Maya to produce high-quality work, with AI serving as a tool to enhance productivity rather than replace human expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level 3D Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level 3D Designer, you need a solid understanding of 3D modeling principles, basic design theory, and proficiency in relevant software such as Blender, Autodesk Maya, or 3ds Max, usually supported by a portfolio or relevant coursework. Familiarity with rendering engines, texture mapping, and sometimes industry certifications like Autodesk Certified User can be advantageous. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with teams are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing visually compelling designs and contributing productively to creative projects.

Are 3D designers in demand?

3D designers are in demand across industries such as gaming, film, architecture, and product design, as companies increasingly rely on 3D modeling and visualization. Entry-level 3D designers with skills in software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max are often sought after, especially as remote work and digital content creation grow. The job market for 3D designers is expected to remain strong with ongoing technological advancements and expanding creative opportunities.
More about Entry Level 3D Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level 3D Designer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 3D Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Designer jobs? The most popular types of 3D Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level 3D Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level 3D Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level 3D Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 54% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,297 per year, or $29 per hour.

Senior CAD Designer / Associate Manager

West Yost

Sacramento, CA

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:

West Yost is a water resource management and engineering firm focused exclusively on water. Since our founding in 1990, we have partnered with public agencies including cities, counties, utilities, and water districts to plan, design, and deliver water, wastewater, and stormwater solutions that support safe, reliable, and resilient communities.

Our team of more than 270 professionals brings together expertise in groundwater, water supply, treatment, infrastructure, recycled water, stormwater, construction management, and operations technology. We support projects from early planning and permitting through design and construction and complement our engineering services with program management and public outreach to help clients move work forward and engage their communities.

We are proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work, and to be recognized among Fortune's Best Workplaces in Consulting and Professional Services from 2023 to 2025, as well as a top-ranked firm in the AEC Advisors Diversity Index. At West Yost, we are committed to being the water firm of choice for our clients and our team, advancing water resources for future generations through strong partnerships, practical solutions, and a shared commitment to quality.

Compensation Range: $80,205 - $110,520.  Based on our Lake Oswego office location.  (West Yost uses geographic salary differentials that would apply for candidates in other regions). 

Status: Full-time, Exempt

Location(s):  

  • Lake Oswego, Oregon
  • San Diego, California
  • Sacramento, California
  • Reno, Nevada
  • Concord, California
  • Irvine, California

 (https://www.westyost.com/locations/ ).

 

This is a Hybrid role with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.

 

SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER 

BASICJOB FUNCTION 

The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is a key member of the engineering team, with responsibility for drafting and design of various water and wastewater infrastructure projects in the public sector. They will collaborate with a team of civil engineers and project managers to provide outstanding engineering designs and construction documents. They will also assist the CAD Manager in tracking and balancing group CAD tasks and workload management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES (IN ORDER OF IMPORTANCE) 

    • Develop 2D and 3D designs, drawings, plans, exhibits, and maps using Civil 3D
    • nder the guidance of the engineering team and project manager. 
    • Complete construction drawings for water and wastewater projects involving underground and above ground utilities including: pipelines; pumping and
    • booster stations; water and wastewater treatment plant, civil and process mechanical equipment and systems; structural and electrical, instrumentation, and control systems. 
    • Update, revise, and scale designs as necessary according to client feedback.
    • Work with other internal teams to get designs approved and executed. 
    • Assist the CAD Manager in balancing workload, tracking tasks and driving work
    • to completion.
    • Assist the CAD Manager in managing the CAD team.

QUALIFICATIONS 

    • Certification from a college or technical school or an Associate degree in CAD
    • Drafting or Design. 
    • 10+ year(s) of experience in CAD design for the A/E/C industry. 
    • Proficient with Bluebeam Revu, Civil 3D, and other 3D software
    • programs. Familiarity with Revit, BIM concepts, and MicroStation are a plus. 
    • Proficient in MS Office including Word and Excel. 
    • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. 
    • Proven ability to assist a team in balancing workload across a group.
    • Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff
    • Must effectively communicate with all project team members. 

 

Travel Requirements

*This position may require travel to other offices and/or client offices.

 

A Little About the West Yost Life

You will experience many opportunities to grow and develop professionally with your colleagues through collaborative in-person work experience, knowledge sharing, and mentorship opportunities. We also offer hybrid and flexible work schedules to our employees to help promote and encourage a healthy work/life balance.  All of our team members have access to local and company-wide events, our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workgroup, Culture Workgroup, Wellness Workgroup, book clubs, charitable giving and community service, firm-wide resources, peer groups (young professionals & middlers group), and mentorship and leadership programs.  We support and foster your career success and encourage you to be in control of your future with us.

At West Yost, we make space for connection across the firm. Each month, we hold an all-hands meeting that bring together team members from every location, including those working remotely, to stay aligned and engaged. Individual sectors and teams also hold their own monthly meeting. At the local level, our offices host gatherings, from camping trips and river rafting to community events and celebrations.

Once a year, we come together in person for our Annual All Staff event, a firmwide experience focused on learning, networking, and building relationships across teams. That evening, we continue our longest-standing tradition, the Duck Dinner, where West Yosters are encouraged to bring a guest and enjoy a night of great food, connection, and entertainment.

We work hard, and we place equal value on having fun.

Our commitment to quality begins with our hiring practices. We employ the most talented team members in our industry from all backgrounds. We are highly selective of the individuals we choose to represent the firm, seeking only those individuals whose technical abilities and commitment to client service matches our vision for excellence.  We are dedicated to our number one asset, our employees.  Because we are employee-owned, we are responsible for and rewarded by our own success. Come to West Yost where, with our support, you'll do the best work of your life.

 

Standard Benefits:

We provide a comprehensive array of valuable benefits to protect your health, your family, and your way of life. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health saving accounts (with West Yost contribution), paid vacation, paid sick leave and holidays, two employee assistance programs, travel assistance program, 401(k) profit sharing with employer match, leaves of absence with additional supplemental paid time off, parental leave, life and AD&D insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and even pet insurance.

Other Unique Benefits:

You'll be provided with support in on-going education through our 529 college savings plan/student loan repayment program, tuition reimbursement, paid professional memberships, paid training, and Leadership Academy programs. You'll be recognized for your contributions at West Yost through milestone anniversary benefits, peer to peer recognition programs, the potential for employee stock ownership, annual monetary and paid time off bonuses, performance-based bonus eligibility, merit increase eligibility, and employee referral bonuses. We also offer a wellness reimbursement.

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.
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