What is a BIM modeler?
If you are interested in the digital processes of a project’s design and construction stages, a career as a BIM modeler might be right for you. Building information models (BIM) are digital files used for a building process to help with decision-making and visualizing the project and the timeline.
These models are digital representations of buildings and structures, including interior and exterior infrastructure. By reviewing these models before breaking ground on the project, team members can see an accurate representation of the structure and better understand how the project will all fit together.
Duties and responsibilities
To become a BIM modeler, you will need to have exceptional artistic ability, as well as excellent technical and computer skills. BIM modelers create a project’s 3D models, drawings, and structural data. As a BIM modeler, you will work closely with architects and engineers to develop client designs. Updates may be made as the project begins, and the models would need to be updated and maintained.
Work environment
BIM modelers typically work regular full-time hours for their employers. The job required drafting, modeling, and creating visual plans to assist decision-making during the architecture process. This position will work closely with an architect or engineer to create the proper and required 3D models. The design process can happen in an office or workspace, but there may be some travel and offsite work to gather information.
Typical work hours
BIM modelers typically work regular hours, 9 AM to 5 PM, though they sometimes might need to log more than 40 hours weekly. Sometimes they visit construction sites to collaborate with architects or engineers.
How to become a BIM modeler
In order to become a BIM modeler, you will need a combination of education, training, and experience. In this career guide section, we cover the steps you’ll need to take to achieve your goal:
Step 1: Complete your education
Once you have your high school diploma or equivalent, continue on to get a secondary education. Work towards a bachelor’s degree in a construction, architectural, or engineering field.
Step 2: Gain experience in architecture or engineering
BIM modelers require some experience in architecture or engineering. Once you finish your degree, apply for jobs in this field to gain experience. Most BIM modeler jobs require a few years of experience, so plan to work in these roles and learn as much as possible on the job.
Step 3: Take additional courses specific to the role
Taking the initiative to expand your knowledge and expertise is always important. There are a collection of incredible online courses you can take to become more familiar with the specific duties of the BIM modeler job. Here are a few that you can explore to get started:
- The Building Information Modeling for Construction Management course from Udemy introduces the fundamentals of BIM and how they apply to the design and construction industry. Learn some effective modeling and visualization techniques for presenting designs. Practice creating 3D models and 4D simulations to help plan and assess workflows and schedules.
- Another great fundamental course from Udemy is BIM Training. It will provide information to help understand and manage the information delivery cycle and implement BIM protocols and standards. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to enhance their career or get into managing BIM projects.
- The BIM Fundamentals for Engineers class from Coursera is designed to teach participants the essential concepts of BIM and the technical skills needed to create and manipulate a BIM model.
- Combine the information about Building Information Modeling and Project Management Professionals with the Diploma in BIM and PMP course. The class helps you learn how to set up your plan and manage the project, from the concept to the operation and maintenance phases. It helps with BIM from the management side specifically.
- For a more specialized class, check out BIM Autodesk Revit Models Tracking and Site Control from Udemy. This course will help you develop some sample scripts and use Revit 2019 models to track, manage procurement, and monitor progress.
- Another specialized course available is the 3D CAD Fundamental course from Coursera. You’ll learn to construct three-dimensional models using SketchUp’s 3D modeling software.
Step 4: Work on getting certified
A certification can help when applying for jobs because this role works in a very data and skill-reliant field. Two suitable certifications to start with are:
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) Certificate Program. This program is a well-known certification offered by ASU, which provides hands-on training and overviews of the latest and most advanced BIM modeling techniques and practices. This course provides information and training on using three major software programs relevant to the BIM modeling career.
- AGC Certificate of Management-Building Information Modeling (CM-BIM). This assessment and test-based certification program provides an overview and comprehension test for BIM model professionals. It can be extremely useful to those who wish to procure a BIM-related job or career.
Step 5: Apply for jobs
Once you have the required experience and education, you can search for BIM modeler job openings. Check the job boards and online job search engines to find available positions near you. If you are working for a company that you really love, you can let your supervisor know that you are interested in moving up within your own organization. Speaking up is important when you want to be considered for promotions.
How much do BIM modelers make?
There are many variables that go into determining how much a BIM modeler makes, from company size to experience to education just to name a few.
The top-paying states for BIM modelers to work in are (shown in annual mean salary):
- Alaska – $84,218
- California – $83,918
- District of Columbia – $83,565
- New Jersey – $83,061
- Massachusetts – $81,739
The average national salary for a BIM modeler is:
$70,400
Top skills for BIM modelers
Aspiring BIM modelers must possess fantastic mathematics and problem-solving skills to build BIM models for projects successfully. Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to collaborate and work with others are good for managing the relationships with architects, engineers, and other professionals you’ll work with. Time management skills are handy because you’ll be working to meet deadlines. Keen attention to detail helps ensure accurate models are produced, and some creativity and artistic ability will aid in the design process.
Most hiring managers will be looking for at least four years of experience in architecture, construction, or engineering. This experience will help candidates build up knowledge and proficiency with advanced virtual design and construction methods and the ability to read and understand technical drawings and plans.
Applicants for BIM modeler positions should have some experience using model authoring software such as Revit and SolidWorks. Consider taking classes to become better acquainted with those programs and keep working on computer and technology competence. Digital fabrication and/or robotics experience is also a plus.
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Career path
With BIM skills and expertise, the BIM modeler is usually the first role to take on. Once you have hands-on experience creating the models, you can move to a BIM designer position. There are also BIM engineer positions if you want to focus on an engineering career path.
Moving up the ladder, you can advance to a BIM manager, where you will be responsible for the BIM projects and setting things up, and performing quality checks. In addition, BIM coordinators manage the project and the entire team working on it. Consultants and facilitators are also parts of the team and possible career options.
Position trends and outlook
Population growth means that construction-related jobs will continue to be in demand. Maintenance, improvements, and construction of roads and bridges will create more job opportunities. The emphasis on environmentally friendly development and energy efficiency should give the industry a boost as well.
Job prospects in the construction industry tend to ebb and flow with the economy. Expertise in BIM will lead to stronger prospects as more firms move to those models for their projects. Technology may advance to allow BIM modelers to do more in less time.
BIM modeler career tips
Soft skills and traits for BIM modelers
Build a portfolio of your work. Nothing shows your expertise better than the actual work you’ve completed in your education. Use social media to share your information and have an online presence. Stay informed on construction and design trends. Visit job sites whenever possible and see how things happen in real-time.
Commonly required skills and qualifications
Become LEED-certified. It benefits all building types and provides a framework for efficient and cost-saving green building methods. Continue taking online courses to further your knowledge of BIM software. New updates are continuously released, and staying on top of them is important.
Develop a professional network
Network with others in the industry. Having peers you can learn from and share ideas with is extremely beneficial. Here are a few networks to check out:
- National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)
- The BIM Hub
- Revit User Group
- LinkedIn Groups
- BIM Today
- BuildingSMART International
Where the jobs are
Top
companies
- ENG
- Applied Software
- Multivista
- Sanveo
- Microdesk
- US CAD
Top
states
- California
- Texas
- New York
- Florida
- Illinois
Top
job sites
- Indeed
- Upwork
- Careerbuilder
- Toptal
FAQs
What does a BIM modeler do?
BIM modelers create virtual models of projects that help architects and engineers plan for projects and make adjustments throughout a project. These 3D models assist with structural plans and timelines.
Is BIM modeler a promising career?
Experience and strong knowledge of BIM software and processes will help you build a good career in architecture or engineering. BIM modelers are in demand now as more firms switch to BIM models.
What is the difference between a BIM modeler and a BIM engineer?
BIM modelers create and update virtual models. Using this model, the BIM engineer works within the BIM model to prepare their portion of the project.
Should all architects learn BIM?
Building Information Modeling (BIM) helps boost accuracy during the design process, and more and more architects are utilizing this process. It helps coordinate all the moving parts of the design and construction process.
What degree is required to be a BIM modeler?
A degree in architecture or engineering is required to become a BIM modeler. In addition, you’ll need to have some experience working in the field before taking a BIM modeler position.
Which BIM software is the most beneficial for a job in the field?
Revit is the most used BIM design software in the industry. It’s used by architects, engineers, and construction managers worldwide. If you are considering a job in this field, start by learning Revit.
Does the BIM modeler role pay well?
Salaries vary depending on location, experience, and education, but the salaries are generally great for BIM modelers. Roles in the architecture industry provide a higher salary than other roles in the construction business.
What skills do you need to become a BIM modeler?
BIM modelers need to have strong mathematical and problem-solving skills. In addition, you’ll need to be creative and technically savvy because the main role is to create and update 3D models. Excellent communication and collaboration will come in handy as well.