3D Modeler - Career Profile

What does a 3D modeler do? Where does a 3D modeler work? ACR takes a look:

About 3D Modelers

3D modelers create three-dimensional computer models by manipulating and designating heights, widths, and depths. Modeling is performed using a variety of programs such as Maya, Lightwave, and 3DS. Modeling may also be performed using an application component such as Lofter in 3DS Max or Sharper. Scene description language such as Manchester, RenderMan, or POV-Ray may also be used to perform modeling.

3D Modeler Jobs

3D modelers create models for video games and 3D movies as well as images and modeling for websites, graphic designs, animation, film effects, simulations, broadcast design, special effects, characters and props for film, television effects, CD-Rom design, and location-based entertainment. These multi-talented professionals also create images/models for geologists, architects, scientists, engineers, healthcare agencies, and more.

3D modelers work in film and video production studios, for game design companies, for advertising and graphic design firms, web design firms, software companies, architecture firms, laboratories (both science and medical), colleges and universities, product design firms, and manufacturing firms (retail, home, tools, etc.). Modelers also work in aerospace and for environmental agencies, automotive companies, retail firms, government agencies, crime labs (forensics), interior design firms, building technology firms, real estate companies, and many others.

3D Modeler Salaries

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists salary information for 3D artists/modelers under “Artists and Related Workers.” The site only lists salaries for 3D artists/modelers working fields such as multimedia and entertainment. As of May 2008, 3D artists/modelers in the listed fields earned median annual wages of $56,330 per year. The middle 50 percent earned $41,710-$77,010 per year, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $31,570 per year. The highest 10 percent earned $100,390+ per year.

Many 3D modelers are self-employed, so salaries for these individuals vary greatly. Well-established freelancers can earn more than salaried artists can, while others who are just starting out may only charge a nominal fee while gaining experience. This means, earnings for entry-level self-employed modelers may be much less than other designers, but this is only temporary, as talented artists tend to advance on the pay scale quickly.   

Becoming a 3D Modeler

3D modelers must have advanced math and computer skills. Other skills may be required depending on where the 3D modeler works. For example, 3D modelers in the film or video game industry must have above average creative and design skills, while 3D modelers in scientific fields may have a strong background in any given area of science.

The major and concentration area you choose will depend entirely on the field you wish to enter. For example, if you are interested in becoming a 3D modeler in the game industry, consider majoring in game design. If you are interested in becoming a 3D modeler in a science-related field, consider majoring in physics with a modeling focus. There are literally dozens of majors and minors to choose from, so there is no need to limit yourself. Just a few options include:

• Computer Games Development
• Computer Graphics and Motion Picture Technology
• Computer Graphics Software Development
• Computer Science
• Data Visualization and Development
• Game Programming
• Interactive Media
• Visual Computing
• Media and Cinema Studies

Speak with a career counselor at the college you are considering to make sure you are enrolling in the right program for your career path. If you do not know which colleges are best for your career path, look into art and design schools, technical colleges, career colleges, or traditional colleges with popular art & design, technology, and mathematics programs.

Job Trends for 3D Modelers

3D modeling is a highly specialized field. As such, there is a high demand for 3D modelers in all industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, depending on the specialization, employment in this field is expected to grow anywhere from 8-14 percent through 2018. For example, 3D artists/modelers working in the entertainment industry can expect employment growth of 14 percent, while those working in illustration can expect an increase of 9 percent.

According to a number of career websites, the demand for 3D modelers to create models for research and development purposes is high. So, career opportunities in the medical, architecture, engineering, chemistry and geology fields are plentiful.