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Check out a sample of the 2,172 3D Design jobs posted on Upwork

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

Less than 1 month
Duration

Expert
Experience level

We are excited to announce an incredible opportunity for talented 3D modeling, design, and printing experts in the field of jewelry des…

3D Design Rhinoceros 3D Product Design 3D Printing 3D Design Jobs 3D Rendering 3D Modeling
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Graphic Design and 3d mockup with illustration
New
Hourly ‐ Posted 18 hours ago

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

Less than 1 month
Duration

Expert
Experience level

We are looking for a graphic designer who can create visually appealing designs for both digital and print media. The ideal candidate s…

3D Design Logo Design Illustration 3D Design Jobs Adobe Illustrator
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Jewelry Designer
New
Hourly ‐ Posted 17 hours ago

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

1 to 3 months
Duration

Intermediate
Experience level

Company:Join an international design house dedicated to crafting exquisite fine jewelry collections. We specialize in creating fine fas…

3D Design 3D Rendering Rhinoceros 3D Illustration CAD Drafting 3D Design Jobs
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3D Furniture Design and Production in 3D Max
New
Fixed-price ‐ Posted 13 hours ago

$300
Fixed-price

Intermediate
Experience level

We are seeking a talented individual or team to design and produce furniture for our upcoming project. The ideal candidate(s) should ha…

3D Design 3D Design Jobs 3D Rendering Autodesk 3ds Max 3D Texturing Product Design 3D Modeling
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3D Model of Foot
New
Fixed-price ‐ Posted 12 hours ago

$40
Fixed-price

Entry
Experience level

Need a 3d model of foot using the the attached photos . Baby foot is going to be 3d printed for keychain so STP files will be needed.…

3D Design 3D Rendering 3D Design Jobs Autodesk 3ds Max 3D Printing 3D Modeling
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3D Character Artist and Animator
New
Fixed-price ‐ Posted 19 hours ago

$700
Fixed-price

Intermediate
Experience level

Step 1 : We need 3 realistic characters made (basis 1 reference image that will be shared with you) - Deadline - 1 Week for all 3 chara…

3D Design Character Animation 3D Rendering 3D Design Jobs 3D Rigging 3D Modeling Character Design Blender
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Mapping for 3D billboard - 1 or 2 hours turnaround
New
Hourly ‐ Posted 17 hours ago

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

1 to 3 months
Duration

Intermediate
Experience level

hello, we need the mapping for a 3D billboard. we provide tech details of the screen, all we need is a mapping of the screen. I can…

3D Design 3D Design Jobs 3D Modeling Adobe Illustrator Adobe Photoshop
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PDF presentation needed
New
Hourly ‐ Posted 14 hours ago

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

1 to 3 months
Duration

Intermediate
Experience level

hello, we need a presentation for a 3D billboard. we provide tech details of the screen, all we need is a mapping of the screen. i…

3D Design Business Presentation 3D Design Jobs 3D Modeling
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$300
Fixed-price

Intermediate
Experience level

post 9 **** Must have iPhone Design 3D Video experience, otherwise, please DO NOT APPLY! Only consider an expert with both 3D Modelin…

3D Design Adobe Photoshop Photorealistic Rendering Autodesk 3ds Max 3D Product Rendering Autodesk Maya 3D Modeling 3D Design Jobs Maxon Cinema 4D 3D Rendering
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Ultra-realistic 3D video expert (60 seconds)
New
Fixed-price ‐ Posted 12 hours ago

$100
Fixed-price

Entry
Experience level

**** Must have iPhone Design 3D Video experience, otherwise, please DO NOT APPLY! Only consider an expert with both 3D Modeling and 3…

3D Design Autodesk Maya Adobe After Effects Blender Autodesk 3ds Max Maxon Cinema 4D 3D Design Jobs Animated Environment 3D Rendering 3D Modeling
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3D Designers on Upwork
can earn $20–$30/hr.
Learn more below about how you can earn a career on the world’s work marketplace.
3D Designer average prices bell curve

$20 $30

Median hourly rates (USD)

How to Become a Freelance 3D Designer

Incorporating 3D capability in architecture, engineering, gaming, graphic design, cinema, and other areas has made 3D design an in-demand skill. Improved computer technology and advanced software at affordable prices makes 3D design easily accessible to virtually everyone.

If you are particularly intrigued by the most advanced three-dimensional design practices, you may have what it takes to be a freelance 3D designer on Upwork.

What does a freelance 3D designer do?

A freelance 3D designer produces three-dimensional visual effects, animations, and models used in various scenarios, including games, architecture, cinema, marketing, and more. Often, 3D animation is associated with special effects in games and films. 3D modeling is also used by engineering and manufacturing companies to design and test components, structures, or machines - well before anything is actually produced.

Most 3D designers use modeling software such as Maya and Blender to create 3D graphics for their employers. Often times they’ll also need knowledge about Adobe Photoshop and other motion graphics, and graphic design software to get to the desired effect based on the client's needs. A 3D artist incorporates perspective, shadows, texture, and other characteristics derived from real-life objects and environments. Designers with 3D computer skills have mastered various 3D modeling software and can deliver needed solutions to their clients, regardless of company or industry.

What skills do I need to become a freelance 3D designer?

A 3D designer offers a variety of skills desired by clients. Organizations such as architectural design firms, film production companies, gaming companies, toy manufacturers, and consumer product design manufacturers rely on 3D design to conceptualize projects and products.

Common skills a freelance 3D designer should possess include:

  • An eye for design and creativity. While there are a variety of 3D design software solutions available for virtually any industry or project, they only provide value in the hands of someone with an eye and aptitude for design. Every 3D designer should possess a high degree of creativity in order to attract clients and deliver excellent work.
  • An ability to conceptualize. Having an eye for design is, of course, an important skill for 3D designers to possess, but the ability to utilize those design concepts and bring ideas and concepts to reality is just as important.
  • Familiarity with top 3D design software. Clients expect freelance 3D designers to have familiarity with the most popular 3D design software on the market, such as Blender, Autodesk, Cinema 4D, and Modo.
  • Excellent communication skills. This skill is critically important, as it not only helps 3D designers engage with clients and understand their key objectives, it allows designers to provide advice and feedback to clients to ensure all parties are in agreement.
  • Keen ability to work in a team environment. Working in a team environment is a must for most freelance 3D designers. While some projects may be suitable for freelance work, most projects will require a team approach. As such, the freelance 3D designer must understand the nuances of give and take while also delivering their best work.
  • Capable problem-solver. Often, 3D design work involves significant problem-solving. Because this is especially true in architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, a freelance 3D designer must understand their client’s key challenges.
  • Proactive mindset. Excellent 3D designers don’t wait to be asked for their opinions. Instead, they anticipate challenges and offer solutions before the client realizes there is an issue.

What are the core freelance 3D designer job responsibilities

Different clients will require freelance 3D designers to handle a number of duties during the course of their 3d modeling jobs. While duties may change depending on the client’s needs and job type, there are core responsibilities clients will ask freelance 3D artists to handle. These responsibilities typically include the following:

  • Review and understand all product requirements in accordance to meeting key company objectives and adhering to brand guidelines
  • Work closely with product development team members to develop products and solutions in three-dimensional models, layouts, and templates.
  • Collaborate with 3D printer technicians to produce product prototypes necessary for executive review
  • Coordinate with video game writers to create 3d renderings of characters and environments for 3D games
  • Create multiple textures for furniture and interior environments using popular 3D design and graphic design computer software such as the Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Provide updates to senior management and stakeholders through weekly reports.

Should I get a degree or certification to become a freelance 3D designer?

While it is not necessary for freelance 3D designers to obtain a certification to complete projects for clients, obtaining a degree is very helpful.

Some examples of popular degrees that are helpful when becoming a freelance 3D designer include:

  • An associate, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree in computer science, computer graphics, graphic design, motion graphics, art, web design, or an equivalent field of study from an accredited college or university

Jumpstart your freelance 3D design career on Upwork and start looking for your first job. Eager to learn more about freelance 3D design jobs on Upwork? Check out these additional resources:

Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this section. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyse and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.

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