Ballpark hourly Rhino / design rates?

#1

Sorry if this is not the correct forum for this… Im just checking a few sources here…

Ive been using Rhino for almost 10 years now recreationally, and professionally for about 3. I recently switched to a new job, hired specifically for my Rhino, design and production experience. Im doing small, semi complex, multi-part objects for production, as well as design consultation, and production viability at the same time. Basically, I get a visual respresentation of the object (jewelry like things, with moving parts), and I have to “make it work a specific way”. Not complex engineering solutions, just simple problem-solving stuff. I am also resposible for design revisions as I see fit, pending approval. If something needs to be changed drastically to make something work, or to achieve a certain look while retaining functionality, I have freedom to adjust things… again, pending approval. I’m also resposible for greating production files of all this stuff in Rhino, for output to 5-axis, SLA, Z-Corp, etc. As well as construction / adjustment of prototypes, and revisions to the original files pending prototype adjustments. The reason im posting here is probably 80% of my time is now spent doing Rhino. I have been to a design school, and am currently attending one, but do not have a degree. My “Professional” Rhino experience is limited, but I am highly proficient in the program, and doing fine at the new job.

Now… Ive never worked with another 3D modeler in any industry… Ive always been the only person capable of using the program any time Ive used it professionally. I dont KNOW anyone who does 3d modeling… I have NO idea how much money I should be making… But I know Ive been asking FAR less than I should… basically undercutting myself to get jobs which reward with experience. (which has worked so far… but I would still consider my professional experience to be “limited”) Im wondering what trained and untrained individuals, and individuals with degrees and such are getting paid to do 3d modeling and design for production. I have a feeling I could be asking twice what I currently am without making these employers bat an eyelash…

Thanks for your help!

#2

congradulations i suppose are in order, sounds like a fun and challenging possition.

what i wonder is what the profit margins are. becuase what they give you they have a number they mulitpy by that they charge the client(s) and the more and better the work/service you provide the better your case to increase your earnings will be.

maybe i am thinking to architecturaly per project basis and you’re more on a mass producion or commision based system.

workers who don’t organize are easy to exploit. not having an AIA or a Union does make you vunerable.

#3

well if you just model an object with moulds you should at least be taking 50 dollar per item

not sure how much you will make but some links and tell us later how much you get

http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=AutoCAD_Operator/Salary/by_Degree
http://www.indeed.com/salary/CAD-Operator.html
http://arch.designcommunity.com/topic-6335.html

you can charge hourly that is the case mostly
also look at some job advertisements from the net in your country for getting a clue
also you can post some of your work here so anyone can tell how good you are
depends on the quality of the job
also as mentioned try to learn how rich your boss are how much he make and other employess make

#4

This thread has been automatically closed as it remained inactive for 12 months. If you wish to continue the discussion, please create a new thread in the appropriate forum.