ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Rendering Engineer 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 ... Knowledgeable in Unreal (Blueprints/Programming/Coding not required but is a plus) * Can create ...

All JobsRendering Engineer JobsEntry Level Rendering Engineer JobsEntry Level Rendering Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Rendering Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.5K

$121.6K

How much do entry level rendering engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level rendering engineer in Chicago, IL is $71,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level rendering engineer do?

An Entry Level Rendering Engineer works on the development and optimization of graphics rendering systems, which are used to display images and animations in applications such as video games, simulations, and visualizations. Their responsibilities often include implementing and debugging rendering algorithms, working with graphics APIs like DirectX or OpenGL, and collaborating with artists and other engineers to ensure visual fidelity and performance. This role is ideal for those with a strong interest in computer graphics and a background in programming, particularly in C++ or similar languages. Entry level engineers typically work under the guidance of senior engineers as they gain hands-on experience with rendering pipelines and related technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level rendering engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Rendering Engineer, you need a solid understanding of computer graphics, linear algebra, and programming languages such as C++ or Python, generally supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with graphics APIs like OpenGL, DirectX, or Vulkan, and experience using shader languages such as GLSL or HLSL, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set candidates apart in collaborative development environments. These skills ensure high-quality, efficient rendering solutions that contribute to visually compelling and performant applications.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry level rendering engineer can expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Rendering Engineer, you will typically work on tasks such as optimizing rendering pipelines, debugging graphical glitches, and implementing new rendering features under the supervision of senior engineers. You may also assist in integrating shaders, supporting the art team with technical issues, and performing performance profiling to ensure smooth graphics delivery. Collaboration with other engineers, artists, and QA testers is common, providing you with a well-rounded introduction to both the technical and creative sides of graphics development.

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

AspectEntry Level Rendering EngineerJunior 3D Artist
Required SkillsRendering techniques, graphics programming, shader developmentModeling, texturing, basic animation
Work EnvironmentTech companies, gaming studios, visual effects firmsGame development, animation studios, multimedia agencies
Common CertificationsComputer Science, Graphics or related degrees, certifications in graphics softwareArt or Design degrees, portfolio showcasing 3D work

Entry Level Rendering Engineers focus on developing and optimizing rendering techniques and graphics programming, often requiring technical degrees and programming skills. Junior 3D Artists primarily work on creating visual assets like models and textures, emphasizing artistic skills and a portfolio. Both roles are entry-level but differ in technical versus artistic focus, and they are commonly found in gaming, film, and visual effects industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rendering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Rendering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Rendering Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rendering Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 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

Posted 28 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.