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Entry Level 3D Modeler Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

Create 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation for manufacturing * Support ... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ...

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 3d modeler in Illinois is $76,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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.
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Entry Level 3D Modeler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 3D Modeler job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $76,042 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer I

Life Fitness

Schaumburg, IL • Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design and develop components and assemblies using SolidWorks CAD software

  • Create 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation for manufacturing

  • Support product development activities, including concept generation, prototyping, and design validation

Life Fitness rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Join us as we empower the world to work out, creating healthier lives together.

Are you a Mechanical Engineer, passionate about fitness, and looking to gain hands-on experience and grow your skills? Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is looking for a Mechanical Engineer I to join our team. You'll be part of a team responsible for the design, analysis, and release of components and assemblies used in industry-leading cardio and strength fitness equipment, from concept through production launch. The role is ideal for a candidate with strong CAD skills, particularly in SolidWorks, and a willingness to learn and grow in part design and product development. The engineer will also support existing products by assisting in resolving field, service, and manufacturing issues as needed.

This is a hybrid role based out of either our manufacturing facility in Owatonna, MN, or the Nieto-Jones Innovation Center in Schaumburg, IL. M/F remote and T-Th are in-office collaboration days** #LI-Hybrid

As a Mechanical Engineer at Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, you will:

  • Design and develop components and assemblies using SolidWorks CAD software
  • Create 3D models, detailed drawings, and engineering documentation for manufacturing
  • Support product development activities, including concept generation, prototyping, and design validation
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Product Management, Manufacturing, Reliability, Purchasing, and suppliers
  • Assist in developing product specifications, timelines, and test plans
  • Support prototype builds, testing, and iterative design improvements
  • Develop and release production Bills of Materials (BOMs)
  • Help resolve design-related issues for existing products in manufacturing and the field
  • Travel up to approximately 20% to support supplier visits, prototyping, and production activities
  • Follow Mechanical Engineering procedures and contribute to continuous improvement efforts

What Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is looking for in our Mechanical Engineer:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 0-3 years of experience (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply)
  • Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
  • Understanding of 2D drawing creation and drafting standards
  • Basic knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Knowledge of plastic part design, including; injection molding, Part design for manufacturability (DFM), draft, ribs, bosses, and wall thickness considerations
  • Knowledge of metal part design, including; sheet metal, weldments, castings, machined components and aluminum extrusions
  • Exposure to engineering analysis methods (FEA or hand calculations preferred)
  • Strong willingness to learn and develop technical skills in product design and manufacturing
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving capability

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

  • Internship, co-op, or academic project experience involving CAD design
  • Exposure to plastic component design or consumer product development
  • Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter)
  • Hands-on experience with prototyping or fabrication
  • Basic knowledge of Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) principles

At Life Fitness / Hammer Strength,we think customer first,play as one team, andraise the bar on fitness innovation-in the gym and in every corner of our facilities. Wepersevere and get it done, with a clear purpose toinspire each other to live healthier lives. If you're ready to bring out the best in people while powering the future of fitness manufacturing, we invite you to apply.

Want to take the next step in your career?Life Fitness / Hammer Strength takes pride in our talented employees and believes in providing opportunities for further growth and advancement. We encourage you to test your strengths, push your limits, and unleash your potential. If you feel the position is right for you, we invite you to apply. We'll work with you closely to support you throughout the hiring process. If your CV/ resume shows that your skills and experience have synergy with the job description, then we'll hop on a call to get to know you and your experience and discuss the position in more detail. If it's not the right opportunity this time, we'll always let you know.

At Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, we believe in taking care of our team with a comprehensive total rewards package that includes competitive pay and a range of valuable benefits. The salary range for this position, intended for U.S. applicants, is $66,500 - $95,000 annually.The actual salary will vary based on applicant's education, experience, skills, and abilities. The salary range reflected is based on a primary work location of Owatonna, MN and the actual salary may vary for applicants in a different geographic location.

Life Fitness / Hammer Strength offers a comprehensive package of benefits for full-time team members, including, but not limited to: a 401(k) savings plan with 4% employer match; medical, dental and vision insurance, parental, medical and military leaves of absence, paid time off, including 12 paid holidays throughout the calendar year, paid vacation days beginning at 13 days annually, paid sick leave as provided under state and local paid sick leave laws, company paid short-term disability and optional long-term disability, health savings account, health care and dependent care reimbursement accounts, employee and dependent life insurance and supplemental life and AD&D insurance, hospital indemnity; identity protection, legal services, adoption assistance, tuition assistance, commuter benefits, employee discounts, and an employee assistance program that includes free counseling sessions. Eligibility for benefits is governed by the applicable plan documents and policies.

Life Fitness / Hammer Strength is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. Life Fitness / Hammer Strength complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regardingemployment,recruitment and hiring. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, disability, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

There continues to be a significant increase in phishing attempts across all industries where fraudsters are impersonating real employees and sending fictitious job offers to applicants in a scheme to obtain sensitive information. Please note that Life Fitness/Hammer Strength will never ask for your financial information at any part of the interview process, including the post-offer stage, and will only correspond through "@lifefitness.com" or "@indoorcycling.com" domain email addresses or "lifefitness@myworkday.com" for U.S. opportunities.

Life Fitness/Hammer Strength does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors.

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