An American Modeling Job

[UberInuka]

Does anyone know the rate of pay for a 3d modeling and animating job in the USA? Basically just list averages for just things like Grunt modeler, experienced 3d modeler, lead modeler, lead animator, art director etc.

[CounterSeal]

Based on the latest Game Dev Salary survey, IIRC an entry level 3d artist gets around $50,000 (maybe more) a year, that's the nationwide average and it really depends which part of the country you're in. For example, in the Bay Area, I think it's around 5-10k higher. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but these figures seems right.

[ShoT]

I know that Graphic Designers in one of the companies I did IT for made $35-$45 an hour. $35 for Jr., $45 for Sr.

[UberInuka]

Originally Posted by CounterSeal

Based on the latest Game Dev Salary survey, IIRC an entry level 3d artist gets around $50,000 (maybe more) a year, that's the nationwide average and it really depends which part of the country you're in. For example, in the Bay Area, I think it's around 5-10k higher. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but these figures seems right.

Where is "the bay"

Hmm, makes me think though, im going to be living on my own soon, can someone survive with 50k-60k a year in America?

[Rick Stirling]

Shameless self promotion.

rsart - Rick Stirling, games artist » Blog Archive » How much should I be earning?

[Lee Fan]

Originally Posted by UberInuka

Where is "the bay"

Hmm, makes me think though, im going to be living on my own soon, can someone survive with 50k-60k a year in America?

50k is very good especially if you live in an area with a lower cost of living. Many many people live off of 20k or less a year in US

[Ghostscape]

Originally Posted by CounterSeal

Based on the latest Game Dev Salary survey, IIRC an entry level 3d artist gets around $50,000 (maybe more) a year, that's the nationwide average and it really depends which part of the country you're in. For example, in the Bay Area, I think it's around 5-10k higher. Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but these figures seems right.

The Game Industry Salary Survey 2007 - GameCareerGuide.com

specifically this page:

The Game Industry Salary Survey 2007 - GameCareerGuide.com

You're off by $7k

$43k is the nationwide median for 0-3 years of experience.

[Ghostscape]

Originally Posted by Lee Fan

50k is very good especially if you live in an area with a lower cost of living. Many many people live off of 20k or less a year in US

50k is good for a starting position, but 20k or less is fucking terrible for a skilled job like 3d modeling.

Depending on the area, you're looking at 30-50k to start, depending on skill level and cost of living/competition.

[UberInuka]

i hope i can get at least 50k a year when i start off, im getting an associates degree, but its in multimedia, not really tailored to 3d modeling and animating, hopefully i can get at least 40k a year, but im not living on my own right now so idk how much that is considered if its good or bad, and i hope one day i can become an art director!!

[Steve Iacopetti]

I wish you luck in obtaining a job in the field.
Currently I am working two part time jobs and make around 18,000/ year. I moved to the bay area less than a year ago and am working on my skills every chance I get. The possibility of working in this industry is part of what drives me.