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Senior 3D Modeling Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Engineer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Produce construction drawings using Revit 3D modeling software * Collaborate with other team members in a professional environment and have good interpersonal skills * Visit project sites to assist ...

Working independently and in collaboration with Engineers and Senior Designers, this position develops and maintains 3D models, engineering drawings, bills of materials, and product documentation ...

Senior Mechanical Designer**Reports to:** Manager, Mechanical Engineering**Department ... Advanced knowledge of 3D modeling techniques* Significant understanding of Finite Element Analysis ...

Senior Mechanical Designer Reports to: Manager, Mechanical Engineering Department : Engineering ... Advanced knowledge of 3D modeling techniques * Significant understanding of Finite Element Analysis ...

Senior Mechanical Designer Reports to: Manager, Mechanical Engineering Department : Engineering ... Advanced knowledge of 3D modeling techniques * Significant understanding of Finite Element Analysis ...

POSITION: Sr. Design Engineer COMPANY PROFILE: Our client custom designs and builds specialized ... 3D CAD Modeling with a preference of Inventor. · Finite Element Analysis Experience. · GD&T ...

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Senior 3D Modeling information

What does a senior 3D modeler do?

A Senior 3D Modeler is responsible for creating highly detailed and accurate 3D models used in industries such as video games, film, animation, architecture, and product design. They use specialized software to build and refine digital representations of characters, environments, and objects. In addition to modeling, they often oversee junior artists, ensure quality standards are met, and collaborate with other departments to bring creative visions to life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior 3D modeler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior 3D Modeler, you need advanced skills in 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering, often backed by a degree in art, design, or a related field and a strong portfolio. Mastery of industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush, and knowledge of pipelines in game engines like Unreal or Unity is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing high-quality assets, meeting project deadlines, and collaborating efficiently on complex creative projects.

What are some common challenges faced by senior 3D modelers when working on large-scale projects, and how can they be addressed?

Senior 3D Modelers often encounter challenges such as managing complex asset pipelines, ensuring consistency across large teams, and optimizing models for performance without sacrificing quality. Effective communication with other departments—like animation, texturing, and engineering—is crucial to maintain cohesive workflows and meet project deadlines. Utilizing version control systems and establishing clear naming conventions can help streamline collaboration and reduce errors, while regularly reviewing work with team leads ensures alignment with project goals.

What is the difference between Senior 3D Modeling vs 3D Artist?

AspectSenior 3D Modeling3D Artist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in 3D animation, fine arts, or related field; extensive portfolioSimilar educational background; focus on portfolio and skillset
Work EnvironmentOften in game development, film, or product design teams; may involve leadership rolesCreative studios, freelance, or in-house projects; more focus on execution
Industry UsageUsed in gaming, film, architecture, product visualizationCommon in entertainment, advertising, and design industries

While both roles require strong 3D modeling skills and similar educational backgrounds, Senior 3D Modeling typically involves more experience, leadership, and complex project responsibilities. 3D Artists focus on creating high-quality models and assets, often working under direction. The senior role may also include mentoring and overseeing modeling workflows.

Are senior 3D modelers in high demand?

Senior 3D modelers are in high demand across industries such as gaming, film, and product design due to the increasing need for detailed and realistic digital assets. Proficiency in software like Maya, Blender, or ZBrush, along with a strong portfolio, can enhance job prospects in this competitive field.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Modeling jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of 3D Modeling jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior 3D Modeling jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Senior 3D Modeling job openings:

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

$95K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description

Let's Do great things-Together


At Shive-Hattery, we believe great design starts with great people. We're a full-service architecture and engineering firm with a legacy of collaboration, innovation, and putting people first, our clients and each other. If you're looking for a place where your ideas matter and your growth is supported, you'll feel at home here.


Why This Role Matters


As a Mechanical Engineer with 10 to 15 years of experience you'll play a key role in supporting the firm and shaping projects that make a difference-from concept through completion. You'll collaborate with talented teammates, contribute your expertise, and help us deliver thoughtful, high-quality solutions for those we serve.


What You'll Do 

  • Mechanical design of building systems to include plumbing, heating, cooling, ventilation, fire protection, building automation, and industrial process systems
  • Work in a team setting with mechanical team members and multi-disciplines teams including electrical, structural, architectural and civil
  • Work on a variety of mechanical projects across our market sectors. Common projects include government facilities, healthcare, industrial, commercial and education facilities
  • Produce construction drawings using Revit 3D modeling software
  • Collaborate with other team members in a professional environment and have good interpersonal skills 
  • Visit project sites to assist with measuring, data collection and construction observation duties

Requirements

You don't need to check every box to succeed here. If your experience aligns with many of the items below and you're excited about the work we do, we encourage you to apply.

  • Education: Graduate of an accredited engineering school with bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with an HVAC emphasis
  • License/Certification: Registration as a Licensed Mechanical Professional Engineer is desired
  • Experience in 3D modeling software (Revit preferred). 
  • Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel is desired
  • Communicate effectively, orally and in writing
  • Manage time and workload effectively which includes planning, organizing, and prioritizing with attention to engineering detail

What will make you stand out 

  • Licensed Mechanical Engineer
  • Experience in 3D modeling software - Revit
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Our Commitment to You


Great work happens when you feel secure in your future, confident in your support, and trusted to grow. That's why our benefits support your health, financial stability, and life beyond work - including medical, dental and vision coverage, paid time off and holidays, 401(k) retirement savings, disability protection, wellness incentives, and flexibility. When we succeed, you share in that success. Guided by truth, trust, mentoring, and care, we're committed to helping you build a lasting career.


Who We Are


Shive-Hattery is a privately held architecture and engineering consulting firm with design offices across the United States. Here, you'll work alongside multidisciplinary teams delivering integrated design solutions for clients across industries. You'll contribute to meaningful projects guided by our principle to design what matters and make our world a better place. You're looking to build something great. So are we.


Shive-Hattery is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.


This position is primarily performed in an office or hybrid environment and may require travel to project sites, other Shive-Hattery office locations or to meet with clients. A full clean driver's license is required. The role involves sitting, standing, and working at a computer for extended periods. May also require lifting light to medium weight objects of up to 50 lbs., the wearing of PPE and navigating active construction sites. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. 


U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:


We are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.


If this role sounds like a fit for your skills and interests, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help us design what matters to make the world a better place. Interested applicants should submit their cover letter, resume, and portfolio for consideration. If you are unable to submit your portfolio due to size constraints, please include a link to your portfolio in your cover letter. 


Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies:


To protect the interests of all parties, Shive-Hattery and its partners will not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from a recruiter or staffing agency who is not operating under an executed recruiting or staffing services contract with Shive-Hattery. Please do not contact our employees directly in that regard or otherwise submit unsolicited candidate information in any form.