ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Architectural Rendering Jobs in Chicago, IL

PULSE STUDIO, LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Scenic & Event Designer / Production Artist 2026

Lisle, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Understand the varieties of light setups from clean studio renderings to vibrant stage rendering ... Work experience in Event Design, Trade Show Design, Theater or Architecture is a huge plus. * Any ...

All JobsArchitectural Rendering JobsEntry Level Architectural Rendering JobsEntry Level Architectural Rendering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Architectural Rendering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do entry level architectural rendering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level architectural rendering in Chicago, IL is $23.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level architectural rendering job?

Entry level architectural rendering jobs involve creating visual representations of buildings and structures, often using 3D modeling and rendering software. These positions are typically suited for recent graduates or those new to the field, and they support architects and design teams by producing images, animations, or walkthroughs that help communicate design concepts to clients and stakeholders. Common tasks include modeling architectural elements, applying textures and materials, lighting scenes, and post-processing images to achieve realistic visuals. Proficiency in programs like SketchUp, 3ds Max, Revit, or Lumion is often required, and attention to detail is essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level architectural renderer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Architectural Renderer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, spatial visualization, and a degree or coursework in architecture, design, or a related field. Proficiency with 3D modeling and rendering software such as SketchUp, Revit, 3ds Max, and Photoshop is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting client needs and collaborating with design teams. These skills ensure the production of visually compelling, accurate representations that support successful project presentations and client satisfaction.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level architectural rendering professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level architectural rendering professionals often face challenges such as mastering new rendering software, meeting tight deadlines, and effectively communicating design intent to both architects and clients. To overcome these challenges, it's important to continually practice with industry-standard tools, seek feedback from senior team members, and stay organized to manage multiple projects. Additionally, participating in team meetings and collaborating with architects can help clarify expectations and improve the quality of renderings.

What is the difference between Entry Level Architectural Rendering vs Architectural Visualization Artist?

AspectEntry Level Architectural RenderingArchitectural Visualization Artist
CredentialsBasic knowledge of 3D software, portfolio, relevant coursesAdvanced skills, portfolio, possibly certifications in 3D modeling
Work EnvironmentInternships, junior roles in architecture firms or visualization studiosCreative studios, architecture firms, freelance projects
Industry UsageEntry-level position for architectural firms and visualization companiesProfessional role for high-quality visualizations and marketing

Entry Level Architectural Rendering typically involves creating basic 3D visualizations for architectural projects, often as a junior role. Architectural Visualization Artist is a more advanced position focused on producing high-quality, detailed visualizations, often requiring more experience and skill. Both roles are essential in the architecture and design industry, but they differ in complexity, skill level, and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Architectural Rendering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Architectural Rendering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Architectural Rendering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Architectural Rendering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Architectural Rendering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Architectural Rendering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,259 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Entry Level Scenic & Event Designer / Production Artist 2026

PULSE STUDIO, LLC

Lisle, IL • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Entry-Level Scenic & Event Designer

Pulse Studio LLC is a design previsualization firm based in Lisle, Illinois. Our designs allow clients to experience what their event or product will look and feel like before it’s ever built. We are looking for a strong 3D Designer to help us create stunning presentation visuals and digital assets for the following areas: Set Design, Exhibit Design, Tradeshow Design, Product/Prototype Renderings, Animations, Interior & Exterior Renderings, Mobile Marketing, Graphics & Web design and AR/VR content creation.

Responsibilities

  • Generate creative designs based on project/client needs
  • Produce high quality renderings for events, scenic stage designs, and product launches
  • Take a design idea from conceptual mood boards to final design
  • Model, texture and light all elements involved with the project
  • Understand the varieties of light setups from clean studio renderings to vibrant stage rendering
  • Coordinate with the rest of the project team in the execution of the project/assignments
  • Post-production work for final renderings

Skills and Abilities

  • Proficient in 3D Studio Max (DO NOT APPLY IF YOU DON'T KNOW THIS PROGRAM)
  • Knowledgeable in Unreal (Blueprints/Programming/Coding not required but is a plus)
  • Can create custom textures and materials for use in models
  • Can dynamically light a scene
  • Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud, specifically Photoshop & Illustrator
  • Proficiency in Office 365 (Word, Excel and Outlook)
  • Ability to effectively meet deadlines
  • Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing
  • Ability to work in team environment

Qualifications

  • Work experience in Event Design, Trade Show Design, Theater or Architecture is a huge plus.
  • Any programming, C++, or HTML5 experience is not required but is a plus.
  • After Effects for motion graphics creation experience is not required but is a plus.
  • Knowledge of fabrication and tradeshow extrusion systems is not required but is a plus.

Please include a link to your portfolio with your application to be considered. (THIS IS MANDATORY. We need to see what level your skills are at.)

Pulse Studio is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We support diversity in the workforce.

Job Location - Lisle, Illinois. Ideally you work in our studio but will have flexibility with some days being remote.

Position Type - Contract to start (Hourly) / After 3 months Full Time is possible (Salary)

Our industry is fast paced with quick turnarounds. Our work varies from day to day, occasionally we work late to meet our clients’ expectations. Benefits include medical insurance, 401k with employer match, paid holidays, and vacation time.

Company Description

Pulse Studio got our start creating successful branded corporate events, trade-shows and exhibits. We are passionate about creating branded experiential designs from the overall physical experience down to the content you see on each screen. With our backgrounds in architecture, engineering, film and animation we were able to take our clients ideas and turn them into beautiful designs visualized in 3d. This is all created with fresh modern designs while always working with our clients to make sure we are embodying the message and story they want to tell.

Pulse serves as an extension of your design department. We work with our clients and their brand guidelines to create beautiful renderings, still images, custom video content, and motion graphics. We believe in a collaborative process between our clients and producers ensuring their satisfaction with the design and messaging we are creating. We have taken our roots of designing 3-dimensional branding experience and have evolved to help our clients create everything from the physical design down to the graphics, video content and interactive elements.

Our combined experience has created a base for us to understand our clients brands and turn those brands and stories into customer experiences. We are taking that all a step further to push digital content further for our clients. Environmental branding is no longer just a passive experience of showing static images. We want to interact with our content through touchscreens, VR/AR/MR, motion sensors, tablets, social media integration and more. That is just the beginning, every day we are looking at new technology to help our clients engage their customers. The more engaging the experience, the more brand awareness that create. That makes our clients happy and keeps them calling on Pulse for new projects.