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Hard Surface Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trick 3d

TECHNICAL ARTIST

Atlanta, GA

$120K - $144K/yr

Experience with organic and hard surface modeling with clean, optimized topology and UVs. * Excellent comprehension of architecture, material use, and construction principles, as well as a master ...

TRICK 3D

TECHNICAL ARTIST

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$120K - $144K/yr

Experience with organic and hard surface modeling with clean, optimized topology and UVs. * Excellent comprehension of architecture, material use, and construction principles, as well as a master ...

Leidos

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Primary Responsibilities Build high-quality, optimized hard-surface 3D models according to project specifications Collaborate with other 3D modelers and multi-disciplinary teams to refine assets for ...

Leidos

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Primary Responsibilities • Build high-quality, optimized hard-surface 3D models according to project specifications • Collaborate with other 3D modelers and multi-disciplinary teams to refine ...

Leidos

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL

$57K - $104K/yr

Primary Responsibilities Build high-quality, optimized hard-surface 3D models according to project specifications Collaborate with other 3D modelers and multi-disciplinary teams to refine assets for ...

Finger Lakes Health

Sr. Environmental Services Aide

Geneva, NY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Preferred: • Prior experience refinishing and burnishing hard surface floors and utilizing ... modeling. • In accordance with the law, individuals must be at least18 years old to operate floor ...

Finger Lakes Health

SR ENV SVC AIDE-2725

Geneva, NY · On-site

Prior experience refinishing and burnishing hard surface floors and utilizing related housekeeping ... modeling. In accordance with the law, individuals must be at least18 years old to operate floor ...

COGSWELL COLLEGE LLC

Adjunct Faculty DAA

San Jose, CA · On-site

$3.0K - $4.5K/mo

Modeling - introduction to hard and organic surface modeling * Lighting and Layout - lighting, scene composition, blocking * Digital Painting - painting textures for shaders and fully realized scenes ...

Finger Lakes Health

SR ENV SVC AIDE-2725

Geneva, NY · On-site

Prior experience refinishing and burnishing hard surface floors and utilizing related housekeeping ... modeling. In accordance with the law, individuals must be at least18 years old to operate floor ...

Finger Lakes Health

Sr. Environmental Services Aide

Geneva, NY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Prior experience refinishing and burnishing hard surface floors and utilizing related housekeeping ... modeling. In accordance with the law, individuals must be at least18 years old to operate floor ...

Finger Lakes Health

SR ENV SVC AIDE-2725

Geneva, NY · On-site

Preferred: • Prior experience refinishing and burnishing hard surface floors and utilizing ... modeling. • In accordance with the law, individuals must be at least18 years old to operate floor ...

Finger Lakes Health

SR ENV SVC AIDE-2725

Geneva, NY · On-site

Preferred: • Prior experience refinishing and burnishing hard surface floors and utilizing ... modeling. • In accordance with the law, individuals must be at least18 years old to operate floor ...

Epic Games

Modeling Outsource Artist

Cary, NC · On-site

Must have a strong portfolio showing executed game assets for hard surface and organics, and ... modeling and 2D/3D texturing software (A plus if experienced with Flow ("Shotgrid") and Miro)

Grote Industries

Engineering - Lead CAD

Madison, IN · On-site

Demonstrated expert-level proficiency in Catia CAD software, including solid modeling, surface ... hard coating, assembly). Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills, with the ...

Leidos

3D Modeler

Orlando, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Primary Responsibilities • Build high-quality, optimized hard-surface 3D models according to project specifications • Collaborate with other 3D modelers and multi-disciplinary teams to refine ...

Leidos

3D Modeler

Winter Garden, FL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Primary Responsibilities • Build high-quality, optimized hard-surface 3D models according to project specifications • Collaborate with other 3D modelers and multi-disciplinary teams to refine ...

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How much do hard surface modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for hard surface modeling in the United States is $40.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $43.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by hard surface modelers when working on large-scale projects, and how can they be addressed?

Hard surface modelers often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in scale and detail across complex assets, optimizing models for performance, and adhering to tight deadlines. Effective collaboration with concept artists and technical teams is essential to ensure that models meet both creative and technical requirements. Utilizing modular workflows, version control systems, and regular feedback sessions can help address these challenges and streamline the modeling process.

What is the difference between Hard Surface Modeling vs 3D Modeler?

AspectHard Surface Modeling3D Modeler
CredentialsOften requires proficiency in CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and industry-specific skillsTypically needs general 3D modeling skills, portfolio, and sometimes certifications in modeling software
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in design studios, game development, film, and product visualizationIn various industries including gaming, film, advertising, and product design
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and entertainmentUsed across multiple creative and technical fields

Hard Surface Modeling focuses on creating precise, mechanical, and architectural models, often requiring technical skills and CAD knowledge. 3D Modeler is a broader role that encompasses various styles of modeling across multiple industries. While both roles involve 3D software, Hard Surface Modeling is specialized in hard, mechanical objects, whereas 3D Modelers may work on characters, environments, or objects of all types.

What is hard surface modeling?

Hard surface modeling is a 3D modeling technique focused on creating non-organic objects with defined edges and mechanical features, such as vehicles, weapons, buildings, and machinery. Unlike organic modeling, which deals with natural forms like characters or animals, hard surface modeling requires precision and attention to detail to accurately depict man-made structures. Artists utilize specialized software to build, texture, and refine these digital assets for use in industries like video games, film, and product visualization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hard Surface Modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hard Surface Modeler, you need a strong grasp of 3D modeling principles, spatial awareness, and experience with geometry optimization, often supported by a portfolio and relevant education or training. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, and experience with tools like ZBrush or Substance Painter is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with artists and meeting design specifications. Mastery of these skills ensures the creation of high-quality, production-ready models that meet visual and technical standards in industries like gaming, film, and product design.
More about Hard Surface Modeling jobs
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Hard Surface Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hard Surface Modeling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,896 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
CAD Engineer/Librarian Intern (Fall 2026)

CAD Engineer/Librarian Intern (Fall 2026)

Astranis

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

CAD Engineer/Librarian Intern (Fall 2026)

As an Intern, you will have an amazing opportunity to work on hard problems - we pride ourselves on giving everyone at Astranis a chance to do meaningful work on complex projects, no matter their seniority. Many past interns have designed and tested hardware/software that have gone to space, and many of them are now full-time employees at Astranis. 

Internships at Astranis typically last for twelve weeks, and are hourly roles designed for individuals who are enrolled at a college or university. If you have already graduated from a four-year university, please apply to be an Associate Engineer.

If you have already graduated from a four-year university, please apply to be an Associate Engineer.

Role
  • Model and draw components, structures, and manifolds for the spacecraft and its supporting structures
  • Maintain and improve our design library and data infrastructure
  • Develop, ideate, and document considerate practices that enable good and efficient design
Requirements
  • Hold a four-year B.S. degree or currently pursuing a M.S. in either mechanical, aerospace, or an equivalent technical degree like physics, applied math, or industrial design
  • Has a passion for hardware development, including working in a fast-paced environment with hands-on development
  • Experience with SolidWorks
  • Experience with GD+T and engineering drawings
Bonus
  • Experience with design of complex assemblies and components
  • Experience in the design of spaceflight components and/or vacuum compatible systems
  • Experience with surface modeling

Apply