Lead Character Artist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health insurance

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Character Artist in Nelspruit to guide the character art team, defining visual style and ensuring high-quality character execution. You will mentor artists and collaborate with designers and animators to fit gameplay needs.

The role requires 6+ years in game character art, leadership experience, and expertise in ZBrush, Maya, 3ds Max, Substance Painter, and Photoshop. A hybrid work setup and a collaborative studio culture are offered in Nelspruit.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of professional experience in character art for games with leadership experience.
• Expert proficiency in 3D modeling and sculpting software (ZBrush, Maya, 3ds Max).
• Strong skills in PBR texturing and material creation (Substance Painter, Photoshop).
• Solid understanding of character rigging, animation, and engine integration.
• Excellent eye for detail and ability to guide artistic vision.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of character artists throughout the production cycle.
• Create high-quality 3D character models, sculpting, retopology, texturing, and PBR materials.
• Establish and maintain character art style guides for consistency across characters.
• Collaborate with designers and animators to ensure characters fit gameplay requirements.
• Review and provide constructive feedback on character assets.

Skills

Leadership

Team mentoring

Artistic direction

Character art

Tools

ZBrush

Maya

3ds Max

Substance Painter

Photoshop

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Lead Character Artist to guide their character art team in Nelspruit . This position is critical for defining the visual style and execution of all in-game characters, ensuring they are of the highest quality and artistic integrity. You will lead a team of talented artists, mentor their development, and collaborate closely with other departments to bring compelling characters to life. We are looking for an artist with exceptional technical and artistic skills, passionate about creating memorable characters that resonate with players and contribute to a vibrant, creative studio culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of character artists throughout the production cycle.
• Create high-quality 3D character models, including sculpting, retopology, texturing, and PBR material creation.
• Establish and maintain character art style guides and ensure consistency across all characters.
• Collaborate with game designers and animators to ensure characters fit gameplay requirements and perform well.
• Review and provide constructive feedback on character art assets from the team.

Requirements

• 6+ years of professional experience in character art for games, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Expert proficiency in 3D modeling and sculpting software such as ZBrush, Maya, and 3ds Max.
• Strong skills in PBR texturing and material creation using tools like Substance Painter and Photoshop.
• Solid understanding of character rigging, animation, and engine integration.
• Excellent artistic eye, attention to detail, and ability to guide artistic vision.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance of office and remote work.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• A collaborative and inspiring creative environment in Nelspruit .