2

Entry Level 3D Modeler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NC ยท On-site

... : Entry - Level Employment Type : Contract on W2 (Need US Citizens or GC Holders or GC EAD or OPT or EAD or CPT) Work days/hours: Monday through Friday (8am to 5pm). General function: * The 3D Model ...

NC ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Engineering Level Of Experience: Entry Level Employment Type: Contract on W2 (Need US Citizens or GC Holders Only) Work hours are 40 hours per week, 8am-5pm. General Function: * The 3D Model Finisher ...

Responsibilities include developing and maintaining SmartPlant 3D models, providing technical ... Drawing/reports templates and isos/orthos troubleshooting Seniority Level Entry level Employment ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level 3D Modeler information

See salary details

$39.5K

$78.5K

$124.5K

How much do entry level 3d modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 3d modeler 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level 3D Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level 3D Modeler, you need a solid understanding of 3D modeling principles, basic art and design concepts, and often a relevant degree or portfolio demonstrating your work. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Blender, Autodesk Maya, or 3ds Max is typically required, and knowledge of texturing and rendering tools is beneficial. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are important because they enable you to produce high-quality 3D assets that meet project specifications and contribute effectively to team-based creative workflows.

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

Entry-level 3D modelers often face challenges such as adapting to different software workflows, meeting tight deadlines, and interpreting complex design briefs. Building proficiency in industry-standard tools like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max is key, as is learning to communicate effectively with team members such as animators, designers, and project leads. Seeking feedback, participating in team discussions, and practicing time management can help new modelers grow their skills and confidence in a collaborative studio environment.

What does an entry-level 3D modeler do?

An entry-level 3D modeler creates basic three-dimensional digital models for use in industries such as video games, animation, film, and product design. They use software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to build and texture models based on concepts or references provided by their team. Their work often involves collaborating with other artists and designers, making revisions based on feedback, and learning industry-standard workflows. Entry-level modelers focus on developing their skills and building a strong portfolio to advance their careers.

What Does an Entry-Level 3D Modeler Do?

As an entry-level 3D modeler, you design and build three-dimensional creations for a company. Your responsibilities are to create images of people, places, and processes and bring them to life in a 3D model. For each project, you sculpt a prototype before using modeling software to create the finished product. Your exact duties can change with the current company projects, but the basics of this job are fairly consistent. Some common industries that require 3D modelers include the video game industry, film, and the medical field, in which you recreate surgical operations in the digital world.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level 3D Modeler jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 3D Modeler job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Modeler jobs? The most popular types of 3D Modeler jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level 3D Modeler jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level 3D Modeler jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level 3D Modeler job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,472 per year, or $37.7 per hour.
3D Modeler - Entry Level - Nuclear Power Projects

3D Modeler - Entry Level - Nuclear Power Projects

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$46K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description
Sargent & Lundy is seeking an Entry Level 3D Modeler to support the development of 3D models and drawings for nuclear power and other large power projects. This role is intended for early-career candidates with foundational CAD skills who are interested in learning industry-standard tools and working alongside experienced engineers and designers.
You will receive on-the-job training in our tools, standards, and quality processes and will contribute to real projects from day one.
Key Responsibilities
  • Build and update basic 3D models under the direction of senior designers and engineers using company-standard CAD/3D platforms.
  • Generate and revise 2D drawings (plans, sections, details, simple isometrics) from 3D models following established standards and view styles.
  • Incorporate comments and redlines from lead designers and engineers into the model and drawings.
  • Assist with multi-discipline model coordination by updating models based on clash reports and interface checks.
  • Follow CAD standards, configuration control, and QA procedures for all modeling and drafting tasks.
  • Maintain organized model files, reference files, and documentation in the project data environment.
  • Support preparation for model and drawing reviews.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
  • Associate degree or certificate in CAD, design/drafting, engineering technology, engineering or related field
    or relevant coursework/technical training plus demonstrated CAD skills.
  • Proficiency with at least one CAD/3D platform (e.g., AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Revit, SolidWorks, Hexagon SmartPlant, or similar) from school, internships, or prior work.
  • Ability to read and interpret basic engineering drawings (plans, sections, elevations).
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate work.
  • Willingness to learn new software tools, standards, and workflows.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Internship, co-op, or project experience on industrial, power, or infrastructure projects.
  • Internship, co-op, or project experience on industrial, power, or infrastructure projects.
  • Exposure to any 3D/BIM plant design tools (e.g., Intergraph Smart 3D, AutoCAD 2D/3D, AutoCAD Plant 3D, AutoCAD MEP, Revit, Hexagon SmartPlant, Bentley OpenPlant Modeler, PDMS/E3D).
  • Familiarity with basic concepts of configuration control and quality assurance.
  • Experience using any model review or clash detection tools (e.g., Autodesk, Navisworks) is a plus.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$46,989 - $67,566
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media