Introduction
A 3D Technologist is a computer specialist who understands and applies the principles of three-dimensional imaging in interpreting and producing information. Likewise, they make use of geometry and several tools to achieve this. Some of them include:
- Softimage 3D
- Ray Dream Studio
- Extreme 3D
- LightWave 3D
- MAX 3D Studio
- Visual Reality.
- Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML), among others.
Also, this technique is very significant in architecture, manufacture and construction companies, interior designs, and even in the medical field. In medicine, these professionals find relevance in radiation therapy, such as Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and even X-rays. Here, they work as 3D-imaging technologists, where they provide detailed anatomical explanations of scan results from. different perspectives (3D).
Additionally, 3D Technologists are usually graduates of relevant fields, such as Computer Science, but most times, they are required to undergo additional on-the-job training. This is usually for about three to six months, to gain more knowledge on the aspect they are to apply their knowledge to, for instance, human anatomy.
Furthermore, 3D technology is a career that involves time and keen interest for one to be successful. They also earn well in the United States. As a career, it is also expected to grow by 9% before 2030.
Keep following to find out more about their job description.
Responsibilities of a 3D Technologist

- Working under the supervision of staff at higher levels.
- Employing various models in creating 3D pictorial representations.
- Understanding the use of various computer 3D software.
- Teaching and training internship, students, and junior staff in the department.
- Spotting errors in other 3D pictorial representations and working to avoid them.
- Employing 3D design knowledge in interior decorations.
- Working as a team with other related staff, for instance, the 3D laboratory manager.
- Explaining pictorial representations of scan results to physicians.
- Explaining 3D models to prospective clients in the building or construction companies.
Qualification for Practice as a 3D Technologist
Certain educational qualifications, certifications, in addition to other skills are very essential for practice as a 3D Technologist in the United States. Some of them include:
- Firstly, a Bachelor’s degree in Fine is in Computer science, Engineering or related field.
- Secondly, work experience in 3D design or production.
- Thirdly, for specialization in 3D medical Technology, certain certifications are compulsory, such as:
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
- California Registry of Radiologic Technologists.
- American Registry of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (ARMRIT).
- Advanced ARRT registry (e.g. CT, MR, etc.).
Also, other skills necessary include:
- Excellent communication skills.
- Good observation skills.
- Ability to pay attention to details.
- Fundamental understanding of physics, 3D modeling software, geometry, operating systems, etc.
- Good documentation skills.
- Team spirit.
- Passion for the job.
- Food presentation skills.
- Time management skills.
- Good organization skills.
Applications and Software used
3D Technologists make use of various software and operating systems to produce these pictorial representations. Some of them are as follows:
- Softimage 3D
- Ray Dream Studio
- Visual Reality.
- LightWave 3D
- MAX 3D Studio
- Extreme 3D
- Virtual Reality Modelling Language (VRML), among others.
Salary
A career as a 3D Technologist attracts an average salary of about $32.95 per hour, which amounts to about $68,544 a year.
As you will expect, this figure is only average and can be way higher in different places, depending on several factors. Such as the qualification and competencies of the staff. In addition, it can also include the size of the employing company.
Career Path
With the increase in the need for 3D Technologists, the career is expected to grow by 9%, as estimated by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. They also expect about 23,300 job openings.
Job Opportunities
A 3D Technologist finds significance in various places, such as the following.
- Firstly, Manufacturing companies.
- Secondly, Construction companies.
- Thirdly, Medical diagnostic laboratories.
- Fourthly, Software publishing agencies.
- Also, in academia.
- Furthermore, in Graphic design firms, etc.
Conclusion
3D Technologists are an amazing set of professionals whose job description is fascinating. The ability to accurately apply 3D tools, software, operating systems in producing information of great news is also amazing.
In addition, it also provides on-the-job training, which may be greatly applicable in other fields of technology.
Wrapping up, as a career, requires keen interest and passion to be successful at it.