At the heart of the creative process, the 3D project manager is an essential cog in any project involving the use of 3D animation or computer modelling.
They may be required to carry out these tasks on their own or as part of a team, as 3D project managers will often be required to manage other people working on the projects they supervise.
How do you become a 3D project manager, and build a career in the sectors that are looking for these profiles? That’s what this guide is all about.
What are the tasks and responsibilities of a 3D project manager?
The 3D project manager, as artist, technician and pilot, is responsible for the successful completion of the project he or she is supervising. They are therefore involved in every stage of the project, from the first ideas through to final delivery.
In the case of a commission, it is the project manager who gathers the client’s needs and translates them into an original creation, supervising the design of the script, the storyboard and all the elements required to create this new universe.
Next, he is responsible for recruiting the most competent technicians and artists, planning the stages of production and keeping a close eye on the progress of the project, so that it is delivered on time and to the client’s expectations.
Whether it’s a video game project or a 3D animation film, the tasks of the project manager are similar, and involve having an overview of the production process, being able to lead teams and choose the right people to achieve the best possible result.
It’s a position of great responsibility, because the smooth running of the project and the quality of the final work depend on the managerial skills and vision of the 3D project manager.
What tools and software does the 3D project manager use?
First and foremost, the 3D project manager will need to demonstrate knowledge of all the tools in the production chain for a 3D animation or video game project.
While a high level of technical expertise is not required for all these tools, being able to grasp the challenges inherent in certain productions and anticipate the obstacles encountered by your teams will give you an undeniable competitive edge, and will also enable you to unite your staff around your vision.
Among these tools, Autodesk’s Maya and 3ds Max, as well as open-source solutions such as Blender, are essential if you want to get started in 3D animation.
Depending on the production, an understanding of other more specific tools linked to 3D sculpture, such as ZBrush, or SketchUp for 3D modelling, are all assets that will enable the project manager to handle complex projects and effectively supervise qualified teams.
In addition to these technical tools, mastery of collaborative project management software such as Notion and Trello, and the ability to draw up complete and effective Gantt charts are also assets for those wishing to develop their career as a 3D project manager.
Which baccalaureate should you choose?
A bac ST2A – Sciences and Technologies of Design and Applied Arts – is the most obvious route for those wishing to become 3D project managers, as it enables students to familiarise themselves with the tools used in the industry from an early age.
What training do you need to become a 3D project manager?
Because of the nature of their work, aspiring 3D project managers need to take part in training that will enable them to learn about the tools used in the sector, as well as perfecting their project management skills and stimulating their creativity.
In this sense, enrolling in a school specialising in 3D animation is an ideal route if you want to get into this sector on a solid footing.
This training should combine both a theoretical approach and practical work, and lead to the completion of practical projects, so that by the end of the course, the 3D project manager will have acquired a solid technical and organisational foundation, and will be able to integrate easily into the professional world.
Taking a course like this also enables you to familiarise yourself with the workflows applied in large companies, and to meet many people who are already active in this sector. This is a unique advantage when it comes to landing your first order, or your first job as a 3D project manager.
How much does a project manager earn in 3D animation?
Salary at the start of your career
Even though it is quite rare for a 3D project manager to be given full responsibility for a project straight from school, junior positions do exist and allow you to get to grips with the job, while joining structures that are already well established.
These positions generally pay around €2,800 gross per month, i.e. between €30,000 and €35,000 gross per year, depending on experience and the size of the company.
Salary with experience
As 3D project managers gain experience, their pay can increase significantly. The salary of an experienced 3D project manager varies between €40,000 and €80,000 gross per year, in line with the responsibilities of this position, which is usually reserved for experienced directors and project managers with a proven track record.
What are the career prospects in this profession?
There are plenty of opportunities for development in a dynamic and constantly evolving sector. By working with different companies, 3D project managers will be able to build up a robust portfolio, an essential tool for winning over new customers and taking on more ambitious projects.
Whether it’s in film production or the video games industry, you’ll need to seize opportunities as they arise, as they may open up your horizons and allow your career to grow in unexpected ways.
And this is true whether you opt for a career as a self-employed person, or in traditional employment.
Which school should you choose to become a 3D project manager?
As 3D project managers are recruited on the basis of the excellence of their skills, it is essential to choose a school like ESMA, which offers a comprehensive, cutting-edge training programme that is well known in the sector.
Supervised by professionals and teachers who have mastered the latest technologies, this type of training allows you to start your career on the best possible footing, while at the same time building your professional network.