Senior Character Modeler (3D Game Art)

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Performance bonuses

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley is seeking a Senior 3D Character Modeler to craft game-ready characters. You will sculpt, retopologize, UV map, and texture assets for real-time engines, balancing aesthetic detail with performance.

The role requires a strong anatomy background, a proven portfolio, and collaboration with art directors, concept artists, and animators. You will mentor juniors and stay updated on the latest industry techniques.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional experience as a 3D Character Modeler.
• Strong portfolio showcasing game-ready characters.
• Expert in Maya, ZBrush, and Blender.
• Advanced texture work with Substance Painter and Photoshop.
• Excellent understanding of human and creature anatomy.

Responsibilities

• Create high-quality 3D character models from concept art.
• Develop both high-polygon and low-polygon versions of characters.
• Produce detailed textures using industry-standard software.
• Optimize models for real-time rendering engines.
• Collaborate with art directors, concept artists, and animators.
• Maintain consistent style and quality across assets.
• Stay updated with latest techniques and trends.
• Provide feedback to junior modelers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.

Skills

5+ years experience

Anatomy expertise

Game-ready portfolio

Teamwork

Problem solving

Concept interpretation

Tools

Maya

ZBrush

Blender

Substance Painter

Photoshop

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing game development studio located in Kimberley , is searching for a highly skilled Senior 3D Character Modeler. This role is integral to creating visually stunning and believable characters for next-generation video games. You will be responsible for sculpting, modeling, texturing, and optimizing high-polygon and low-polygon character assets, ensuring they meet the aesthetic and technical requirements of our projects. We are seeking an artist with exceptional anatomical understanding, a strong portfolio of game-ready characters, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to exciting new game titles and push the boundaries of character art.

Key Responsibilities

• Create high-quality 3D character models from concept art, including sculpting, retopology, UV mapping, and texturing.
• Develop both high-polygon (sculpt) and low-polygon (game-ready) versions of characters.
• Produce detailed and realistic textures using industry-standard software.
• Optimize character models for real-time rendering engines, ensuring performance and visual fidelity.
• Collaborate closely with art directors, concept artists, and animators to ensure character designs are realized accurately and effectively.
• Maintain consistency in style and quality across all character assets within a project.
• Stay updated with the latest character modeling techniques, software, and industry trends.
• Provide feedback and guidance to junior modelers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to character models.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience as a 3D Character Modeler, with a focus on video game development.
• A strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of high-quality game-ready characters.
• Expert proficiency in 3D modeling software such as Maya, ZBrush, and Blender.
• Advanced skills in texture creation using software like Substance Painter and Photoshop.
• Thorough understanding of human and creature anatomy.
• Experience with real-time rendering engines like Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Strong understanding of UV mapping, baking, and PBR workflows.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret and execute concept art accurately.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, reflecting your senior-level expertise. You will be part of an innovative and passionate game development team in Kimberley , working on cutting-edge projects. Enjoy opportunities for professional growth and skill development within a supportive and collaborative studio environment. We provide access to the latest hardware and software, and foster a culture that encourages creativity and excellence. Benefits include health insurance, performance bonuses, and generous paid time off. This is a chance to build memorable characters and shape the future of gaming.