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Freelance 3D Piping Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UT · Hybrid

$39 - $46/hr

We are seeking Piping Designer able to work on projects of varying size and complexity. This ... This position requires basic AutoCAD/CAD skills, exposure to 2D/3D piping design, and familiarity ...

Piping Designer

Houston, TX · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Piping Designer Location: Initially based in Houston, TX for approximately 2-3 months. The position ... Development / configuration of smart 3D models and 2D fabrication drawings for complete gas ...

HGA is seeking a Junior to Mid-Level Piping Drafter / Designer to support client operations in ... Isometric drawings (ISOs) * 3D piping models * Material Take-Offs (MTOs) * Perform field ...

Piping Designer

Houston, TX · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Piping Designer Location: Initially based in Houston, TX for approximately 2-3 months. The position ... Development / configuration of smart 3D models and 2D fabrication drawings for complete gas ...

Piping Designer

Houston, TX · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Utilize 3D modeling tools to support project deliverables (e.g., Navisworks, CADWorx, AutoCAD Plant 3D, SmartPlant 3D). * Provide day-to-day technical direction, guidance, and mentorship to piping ...

Piping Designer

Billings, MT · On-site

$39 - $46/hr

We are seeking Piping Designer able to work on projects of varying size and complexity. This ... This position requires basic AutoCAD/CAD skills, exposure to 2D/3D piping design, and familiarity ...

We are seeking a skilled Piping Designer to support an ongoing engineering project in Houston, TX. * The ideal candidate will have strong experience in drafting, 3D modeling, and design checking ...

Development of 3D models and 2D drawings of piping systems and creation of bills of material to be ... To be successful in this role the Piping Designer will have: A related technical degree or ...

Development of 3D models and 2D drawings of piping systems and creation of bills of material to be ... To be successful in this role the Piping Designer will have: • A related technical degree or ...

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Piping Designer Location: Birmingham, Alabama Job Summary: Genesis Staffing is seeking a skilled ... Develop detailed piping layouts, isometrics, and 3D models for power and energy projects

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Freelance 3D Piping Designer information

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How much do freelance 3d piping designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance 3d piping designer in the United States is $51.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.31 and $61.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance 3D piping designer do?

A Freelance 3D Piping Designer creates detailed 3D models and layouts of piping systems used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical plants, and manufacturing. They use specialized software to design and visualize pipe routing, support structures, and equipment connections, ensuring the systems are safe, efficient, and compliant with industry standards. Working on a freelance basis, they may collaborate with engineers, architects, and project managers to deliver accurate and constructible piping designs for various projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance 3D piping designer?

To thrive as a Freelance 3D Piping Designer, you need expertise in piping design principles, a background in mechanical or related engineering, and experience interpreting technical drawings and specifications. Proficiency with software like AutoCAD Plant 3D, PDMS, SmartPlant, or similar industry-standard 3D modeling tools is typically required, along with familiarity with relevant codes and standards. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help distinguish top performers, especially when coordinating with remote project teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate, compliant, and efficient piping designs that meet client and project requirements.

What are some common challenges freelance 3D piping designers face when working with remote clients, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance 3D piping designers often encounter challenges like unclear project specifications, differences in software compatibility, and limited access to project data when working remotely with clients. Clear communication is essential—regular check-ins, detailed kickoff meetings, and thorough documentation help minimize misunderstandings. Using industry-standard CAD tools and establishing file-sharing protocols also ensures smoother collaboration. Proactively addressing these issues can lead to more efficient workflows and successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Freelance 3D Piping Designer vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectFreelance 3D Piping DesignerMechanical Drafter
CredentialsCAD certifications, piping design experienceCAD drafting certifications, mechanical drawing skills
Work EnvironmentProject-based, remote or onsite, engineering firmsOffice or remote, manufacturing or engineering companies
Industry UsageOil & gas, chemical, power plantsManufacturing, HVAC, machinery

Both roles require CAD skills and industry-specific knowledge. A Freelance 3D Piping Designer specializes in piping systems using 3D modeling, often working on engineering projects remotely. A Mechanical Drafter focuses on creating detailed mechanical drawings for various industries. While they share technical skills, their focus areas and project types differ significantly.

More about Freelance 3D Piping Designer jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance 3D Piping Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance 3D Piping Designer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Piping Designer jobs?

The most popular types of 3D Piping Designer jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance 3D Piping Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance 3D Piping Designer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance 3D Piping Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,379 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Mechanical Designer - Piping (Senior Level) 4P 635

4P Consulting Inc

Vestavia Hills, AL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Mechanical Designer - Piping (Senior Level)
Location: Birmingham, AL.
Experience Level: 20+ Years
Industry: Power Generation / Heavy Industrial
Contract - 1 Year

Client- Southern Company Services.
Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Mechanical Designer - Piping (SR 3) with 20+ years of experience in heavy industrial or power generation environments.

This role is responsible for delivering advanced piping and equipment designs for retrofit, environmental, and new generation projects. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in 3D modeling, piping system layout, construction support, and multidisciplinary coordination.

This is a senior technical leadership role requiring strong design judgment, field experience, and the ability to lead multi-discipline project efforts.
Key Responsibilities
3D Piping & Equipment Design

  • Develop detailed 3D piping and equipment models for retrofit and new generation projects.
  • Produce 2D orthographic and isometric drawings, P&IDs, and pipe support designs.
  • Create and review general arrangements (GA drawings).
  • Apply applicable industry codes and standards to design work.

Technical Leadership & Coordination

  • Lead multi-discipline technical teams on projects.
  • Collaborate with engineers and designers across mechanical, structural, electrical, and civil disciplines.
  • Review and check design drawings and documents for quality and compliance.
  • Work with minimal supervision while maintaining high technical standards.

Field & Construction Support

  • Gather field data to support development of engineering deliverables.
  • Support construction activities and provide design clarifications.
  • Ensure piping designs align with real-world installation requirements.

Engineering & Material Expertise

  • Prepare detailed material take-offs.
  • Perform sizing and selection of piping components.
  • Apply knowledge of pipe materials, valve selection, and construction techniques.
  • Demonstrate understanding of piping construction practices and heavy industrial systems.

Required Qualifications

  • 20+ years of related piping design experience.
  • Strong experience in power generation or heavy industrial facilities (new construction and/or retrofit).
  • Proficiency in 3D piping system layout and modeling tools.
  • Experience with AutoPLANT and/or AVEVA preferred.
  • Experience producing:
    • 2D orthographic drawings
    • Isometric drawings
    • P&IDs
    • Pipe supports
    • 3D piping and equipment models
  • Experience checking and reviewing design documentation.
  • Experience preparing material take-offs.
  • Strong technical background in piping construction techniques and practices.

Core Competencies

  • Ability to manage multiple large-scale projects concurrently.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills.
  • Ability to build effective working relationships with:
    • Plant personnel
    • Engineering teams
    • Vendors and contractors