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Maya Modeling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hyundai Motor Company

KIA Exterior Designer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90K - $165K/yr

Proficient at building high quality 3D sketch models using Alias/SubD, Maya or Blender. * Strong attention to design detail and problem solving. * Research and analyze trends in automotive exterior ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

San Jose, CA

Define how Firefly Foundry models plug into Nuke, Houdini, Maya, After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Substance 3D. Design the APIs, node graphs, and plugin architectures that make AI-generated assets ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

San Francisco, CA

Define how Firefly Foundry models plug into Nuke, Houdini, Maya, After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Substance 3D. Design the APIs, node graphs, and plugin architectures that make AI-generated assets ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

Define how Firefly Foundry models plug into Nuke, Houdini, Maya, After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Substance 3D. Design the APIs, node graphs, and plugin architectures that make AI-generated assets ...

Adobe, Inc.

Staff AI VFX Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Define how Firefly Foundry models plug into Nuke, Houdini, Maya, After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Substance 3D. Design the APIs, node graphs, and plugin architectures that make AI-generated assets ...

Stefanini

3D Graphics Designer

Los Angeles, CA

Excellent knowledge of Maya. Houdini is a plus. * Solid asset building skills, including modeling and texturing and some rigging. * Ability to develop, execute, light, render and test comp FX.

Zoo

CAD Graphics Engine Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $186K/yr

What You'll Do * Develop and maintain CAD modeling algorithms (editing brep data structures ... Strong familiarity of the inner workings of CAD 3D editors such as Blender, Maya, Solidworks ...

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Maya Modeling information

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$75

How much do maya modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for maya modeling in California is $39.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.82 and $42.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is Maya a good place to work?

Maya modeling is a specialized role in 3D animation and visual effects, often found in entertainment, gaming, and design industries. Work environments can vary, but roles typically require proficiency in Maya software, strong artistic skills, and the ability to meet project deadlines. Job satisfaction depends on company culture, project scope, and individual career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Maya Modeling position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Maya Modeling professional, you need strong 3D modeling skills, a deep understanding of topology, and proficiency in Autodesk Maya, often supported by a degree in animation, game design, or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard tools like Autodesk Maya, ZBrush, and experience with texture maps or UV mapping is essential, and certification in Maya can be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills are critical for collaborating with animators, riggers, and project leads. These competencies enable you to efficiently translate creative concepts into high-quality 3D models that meet project specifications and team objectives.

Is 3D modeling still in demand?

Maya modeling is a specialized form of 3D modeling used in industries like animation, gaming, and film. The demand for skilled 3D modelers remains strong due to ongoing projects in entertainment and virtual reality, and proficiency in tools like Maya and ZBrush enhances employability.

Can you make models in Maya?

Yes, Maya modeling involves creating 3D models using Maya software, which is widely used in industries like animation, gaming, and visual effects. It requires skills in polygon modeling, texturing, and sometimes rigging, often utilizing tools like the modeling toolkit and referencing tutorials or certifications for proficiency.

Is Maya free or paid?

Autodesk Maya, a popular software for 3D modeling and animation, is a paid program that requires a subscription. However, Autodesk offers a free trial and discounted or free versions for students and educators. Professionals typically need to purchase a license to access its full features.

What does a typical day look like for someone in a Maya Modeling role?

A typical day for a Maya Modeling professional involves creating and refining 3D models based on concept art or design briefs, collaborating closely with animators, texture artists, and project managers to ensure assets meet technical and artistic requirements. You might attend team meetings to discuss feedback, troubleshoot modeling challenges, and make revisions based on input from supervisors or clients. Additionally, you may spend time managing asset libraries, optimizing models for performance, and learning new tools or techniques to stay current in the field. The environment is usually fast-paced and highly collaborative, requiring adaptability and strong project management skills to meet deadlines.

What is a Maya Modeling job?

A Maya Modeling job involves creating 3D models using Autodesk Maya, a popular software for animation, gaming, and visual effects. Modelers use polygonal, NURBS, and subdivision surface techniques to craft characters, environments, and objects. This role requires strong artistic skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in topology and texturing. Maya modelers often work in industries like film, gaming, and advertising, collaborating with animators and designers to bring concepts to life.

What are popular job titles related to Maya Modeling jobs in California? For Maya Modeling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Maya Modeling jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Maya Modeling jobs in California are:
Maya Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Maya Modeling job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,797 per year, or $39.8 per hour.
Geospecific 3D Modeler

Geospecific 3D Modeler

Aechelon Technology

South San Francisco, CA

$60K - $80K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

We currently have an open position in the GeoSpecific Department of the Modeling Division for a 3D Modeler.  The primary workplace for this position will be in our South San Francisco office. 
 
Applicants must demonstrate ability to create, UV map, texture and light a range of low poly to high poly models.  Applicants are required to provide a link to their portfolio, either on their website, ArtStation or similar online platforms.
 
United States citizenship required due to restrictions on access to certain data.

Required Skills and Experience:

  • Advanced knowledge of Maya
  • Advanced knowledge of Photoshop
  • Strong understanding of light and form
  • Strong time management and communication skills
  • United States citizenship required, due to restrictions on access to certain data
  • Good technical abilities with respect to implementation of models into 3D engines
  • An understanding of basic color theory and an 'aesthetic eye' as it relates to real world data for simulation
  • Background/degree in Animation and Visual Effects, Media Arts, Industrial Design, 3D Modeling or similar

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Experience working in a game/real time environments
  • Experience with Mel and/or Python
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (MSExcel/MSWord)
  • Military background a plus

Software Used:

  • Autodesk Maya
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • In-house software

Salary Range: $60,000 - $80,000 USD per year

The above range is specific to CALIFORNIA and may not be applicable to other locations. The pay scale for this role is between $60,000 - $80,000. Final compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.

We offer a very attractive compensation package including competitive base salary, company performance-based profit sharing, 401k, 100% employer paid health benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, std,  ltd, and life insurance plans).
 
No relocation reimbursement provided.

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