Senior Character Modeler

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

medical aid

retirement fund contributions

generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is seeking a Senior Character Modeler to contribute to high-caliber projects in film, games, and animation. This hybrid role combines in-studio collaboration with remote work flexibility.

You will create detailed, high-fidelity 3D character models, ensure real-time performance, and collaborate with rigging and texture teams to meet aesthetic and technical standards.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional experience as a 3D Character Modeler.
• Portfolio showcasing high-quality character models for film, games, or animation.
• Proficiency with Maya, ZBrush, Blender or 3ds Max.
• Strong understanding of human and creature anatomy, form and proportion.
• Experience with retopology, UV unwrapping, and PBR texturing workflows.

Responsibilities

• Create high-quality, detailed 3D character models from concept art and reference materials.
• Optimize models for performance in real-time engines or rendering pipelines.
• Collaborate with character rigging and animation teams to ensure models are functional and performant.
• Sculpt high-poly models with intricate details and clean topology.
• Retopologize models for efficient animation and texturing.
• Work closely with texture artists to ensure seamless integration of model and texture.
• Adhere to project-specific art style guidelines and technical constraints.
• Participate in model reviews, providing and receiving constructive feedback.
• Stay updated on the latest modeling techniques and software advancements.

Skills

Artistic talent

Anatomy understanding

Communication

Team collaboration

Hybrid work adaptation

Education

Bachelor's degree in 3D Art

Tools

Maya

ZBrush

Blender

3ds Max

Substance Painter

Job description

About the RoleOur client, a distinguished entity within the arts and entertainment sphere, is seeking an accomplished Senior Character Modeler to contribute to their high-caliber projects. This hybrid role, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA , offers the best of both worlds: collaborative studio time and the flexibility of remote work. You will be responsible for creating detailed, high-fidelity 3D character models that serve as the foundation for our animated features, games, and visual effects. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional artistic talent, a keen eye for anatomy and form, and a mastery of industry-standard modeling software. You will work closely with character art directors and technical artists to ensure models meet both aesthetic and technical requirements. Join a passionate team dedicated to bringing unforgettable characters to life through exceptional craftsmanship. This is your chance to make a significant impact on visually stunning productions.

Key Responsibilities

• Create high-quality, detailed 3D character models from concept art and reference materials.
• Ensure models are optimized for performance in real-time engines or rendering pipelines.
• Collaborate with character rigging and animation teams to ensure models are functional and performant.
• Sculpt high-poly models with intricate details and clean topology.
• Retopologize models for efficient animation and texturing.
• Work closely with texture artists to ensure seamless integration of model and texture.
• Adhere to project-specific art style guidelines and technical constraints.
• Participate in model reviews, providing and receiving constructive feedback.
• Stay updated on the latest modeling techniques and software advancements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in 3D Art, Digital Sculpting, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience as a 3D Character Modeler, with a strong portfolio showcasing exceptional character models for film, games, or animation.
• Mastery of 3D modeling software such as Maya, ZBrush, Blender, or 3ds Max.
• Strong understanding of human and creature anatomy, form, and proportion.
• Experience with retopology techniques and UV unwrapping.
• Familiarity with PBR texturing workflows and related software (e.g., Substance Painter).
• Excellent attention to detail and a strong artistic sensibility.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team in a hybrid environment.
• Good communication skills.
• A passion for characters and the arts and entertainment industry.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, tailored to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. This hybrid role provides a flexible work arrangement, combining in-studio collaboration in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA with the option for remote work. We provide access to cutting-edge technology and software, fostering an environment where creativity and technical skill can flourish. Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development are readily available. You will be part of a talented and passionate team working on exciting projects within the arts and entertainment industry. Benefits include medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and generous paid time off. Our client is committed to creating a supportive and innovative work culture.

• medical aid
• retirement fund contributions
• generous paid time off