Senior Character Artist - Stylized 3D Models

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Creative studio environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Character Artist to design and model stylized 3D characters for games and animated features in Vereeniging. You will sculpt, texture, and rig characters for real-time use, collaborating with artists and engineers in a hybrid setup.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in stylized character art, strong anatomy knowledge, and proficiency with Maya, ZBrush, Blender, and major engines (Unreal/Unity).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, 3D Animation, Game Design, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 5 years of professional 3D character art experience with a stylized portfolio.
• Strong understanding of anatomy, silhouette, color theory for stylized characters.
• Proficiency in Maya, ZBrush, Blender; texture work in Substance Painter and Photoshop.

Responsibilities

• Sculpt, model, and texture high-quality stylized 3D characters for games and animation.
• Collaborate with concept artists, art directors, and technical artists to translate 2D designs to 3D assets.
• Ensure models are optimized for real-time rendering and game engine integration.
• Create topology, UVs, and PBR textures for character assets.
• Develop character rigs and assist with skinning for animation with animators.
• Maintain consistency in style and quality across character assets.
• Stay updated with industry trends and tools in character art.
• Provide feedback to junior character artists.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to asset creation and implementation.
• Participate in art reviews and contribute to artistic direction.

Skills

Artistic eye

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts / 3D Animation / Game Design

Tools

Maya

ZBrush

Blender

Substance Painter

Photoshop

Unreal Engine

Unity

Rigging

Skinning

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished studio within the Arts & Entertainment industry, is seeking a talented Senior Character Artist to contribute to their exciting projects in Vereeniging . This role is central to designing and modeling compelling, stylized 3D characters that will populate their games and animated features. You will be instrumental in bringing virtual beings to life, from initial concept sculpting through to final in-game asset creation, ensuring they are visually appealing, technically sound, and optimized for performance. The ideal candidate will possess a strong artistic foundation, exceptional modeling and texturing skills, and a deep understanding of character anatomy and form, with a preference for stylized aesthetics. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, balancing essential on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. We are committed to fostering a creative and collaborative environment where artists can thrive and push the boundaries of character design. This is a fantastic opportunity to apply your unique talents to high-profile productions and make a significant impact on the visual identity of our client's most anticipated titles. Your work will be seen and experienced by millions, shaping memorable characters that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Sculpt, model, and texture high-quality, stylized 3D characters for games and animated productions.
• Collaborate closely with concept artists, art directors, and technical artists to translate 2D designs into compelling 3D assets.
• Ensure character models are optimized for real-time rendering and game engine integration.
• Create clean topology, efficient UV layouts, and PBR-compliant textures.
• Develop character rigs and assist with skinning for animation, working alongside animators.
• Maintain consistency in style and quality across all character assets within a project.
• Stay current with industry trends, tools, and techniques in character art and 3D modeling.
• Provide feedback and guidance to junior character artists.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to character asset creation and implementation.
• Participate actively in art reviews and contribute to the overall artistic direction.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, 3D Animation, Game Design, or a related field; or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in 3D character art, with a portfolio showcasing strong stylized character work.
• Proficiency in industry-standard 3D modeling software (e.g., Maya, ZBrush, Blender).
• Expertise in texturing software (e.g., Substance Painter, Photoshop).
• Strong understanding of anatomy, form, silhouette, and color theory for stylized characters.
• Experience with game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) and their requirements for character assets.
• Familiarity with rigging and skinning processes.
• Excellent artistic eye, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience in a hybrid work setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and portfolio strength.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance of flexibility and collaboration.
• Opportunities for professional development and learning.
• Access to cutting-edge tools and technology.
• Work on exciting and high-profile projects within the Arts & Entertainment sector.
• Retirement savings plan.
• A creative and supportive studio environment in Vereeniging .
• Potential for overtime pay or bonuses on specific projects.