Senior 3D Modeler (Character)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 480,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior 3D Character Modeler to join a prestigious game development studio in Paarl, Western Cape. You will craft high-fidelity character models, translate concept art into production-ready assets, and collaborate with artists and engineers to ensure optimal performance in real-time engines.

The role requires expert anatomy knowledge, a strong portfolio, and proficiency in Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a 3D Character Modeler in the video game industry.
• Strong portfolio with high-poly sculpting, retopology, and UV mapping.
• Proficiency in Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter.
• Solid understanding of human and creature anatomy, form, and proportion.

Responsibilities

• Create high-quality, production-ready 3D character models based on concept art and reference material.
• Sculpt high-resolution details using ZBrush.
• Retopologize models for in-game performance and animation.
• Create clean UV layouts for texturing.
• Collaborate with concept artists, art directors, and technical artists to meet requirements.
• Maintain consistency in style and quality across character assets.
• Optimize models for real-time rendering in game engines.
• Stay updated with advancements in 3D modeling techniques and software.
• Provide feedback to junior modelers and ensure timely delivery.

Skills

Character modeling

High-poly sculpting

Retopology

UV mapping

Unreal Engine

Unity

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Graphics or related field

Tools

Maya

ZBrush

Substance Painter

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious game development studio, is seeking a highly skilled Senior 3D Modeler with a specialization in character creation to join their team in Paarl, Western Cape. This role is pivotal in bringing our client’s game characters to life, demanding exceptional artistic talent and technical proficiency. You will be responsible for crafting high-fidelity, detailed character models that align with the project’s artistic direction and technical specifications. We are looking for an artist with a strong understanding of human and creature anatomy, an eye for detail, and mastery of industry-standard 3D modeling software. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment, working closely with concept artists, riggers, and animators. This position in Paarl offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to visually stunning games and work alongside a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about creating immersive experiences. You will play a key role in defining the visual quality of characters and ensuring their successful implementation within the game engine.

Key Responsibilities

• Create high-quality, production-ready 3D character models based on concept art and reference material.
• Sculpt high-resolution details using software such as ZBrush.
• Retopologize models for efficient in-game performance and animation.
• Create clean UV layouts for texturing.
• Collaborate closely with concept artists, art directors, and technical artists to ensure models meet artistic and technical requirements.
• Maintain consistency in style and quality across all character assets.
• Optimize models for real-time rendering in game engines.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in 3D modeling techniques and software.
• Provide feedback and guidance to junior modelers.
• Ensure timely delivery of assets while adhering to project pipelines and standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a 3D Character Modeler in the video game industry.
• A strong portfolio showcasing exceptional character modeling skills, including high-poly sculpting, retopology, and UV mapping.
• Proficiency in industry-standard 3D modeling software such as Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter.
• Solid understanding of human and creature anatomy, form, and proportion.
• Experience with real-time rendering pipelines and game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Ability to work from concept art and translate it into 3D assets accurately.
• Strong artistic eye and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to take direction and work effectively within a team environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Graphics, Fine Arts, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement contributions. Opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading studio are provided. You will work in a creative studio environment in Paarl, Western Cape, with access to cutting-edge technology and tools. Enjoy a collaborative atmosphere where your artistic contributions are highly valued.