1

3D Character Modeler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Do you have a passion for how 3D character art enhances gameplay clarity, supporting players in making split-second decisions, and how character design can ignite both fandom and strategic depth?

3D Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Scattermesh is expanding its team and we are looking to hire experienced 3D Character ... modeling, sculpting and texturing expertise from scratch or scan data based on concept art.

3D Character Artist (Mid-Senior) thatgamecompany is looking for a Mid-Senior 3D Character Artist to ... Proficient modeling skills in Maya or equivalent * Self-motivated, humble, and a team player * Open ...

3D Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Scattermesh is expanding its team and we are looking to hire experienced 3D Character ... modeling, sculpting and texturing expertise from scratch or scan data based on concept art.

Senior 3D Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Scattermesh is expanding its team and we are looking to hire experienced 3D Character ... modeling, sculpting and texturing expertise from scratch or scan data based on concept art. * Pass ...

Senior 3D Character Artist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$124K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Scattermesh is expanding its team and we are looking to hire experienced 3D Character ... modeling, sculpting and texturing expertise from scratch or scan data based on concept art. * Pass ...

As a 3D Character Artist , you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring ... This mid-level generalist role focuses on modeling, texturing, and optimizing character assets ...

Realize the Vision - Elevate high quality 3D character models by optimizing textures and shaders to create realistic renders. * Construct Reality - Create and maintain the overall look, color, and ...

Realize the Vision - Elevate high quality 3D character models by optimizing textures and shaders to create realistic renders. * Construct Reality - Create and maintain the overall look, color, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

3D Character Modeler information

See salary details

$39.5K

$78.5K

$124.5K

How much do 3d character modeler jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d character modeler in the United States is $78,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

In the field of 3D character modeling, experienced professionals working in gaming, film, or animation studios can earn around $80,000 annually, especially with advanced skills in software like Maya or Blender. Senior 3D modelers with a strong portfolio and specialized expertise often reach this salary level, particularly in larger companies or competitive markets.

What is a 3D Character Modeler job?

A 3D Character Modeler is responsible for creating digital characters for video games, films, animation, and other media. They use specialized software like Blender, ZBrush, and Maya to sculpt, texture, and refine character models based on concept art or creative direction. Their work ensures that characters not only look visually appealing but also function properly in animations and real-time applications. Collaboration with animators, riggers, and designers is essential to maintaining consistency and quality. Strong artistic skills, knowledge of anatomy, and technical proficiency are key to success in this role.

Is 3D modeling a high paying job?

3D character modelers can earn competitive salaries, especially with experience, strong portfolios, and proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya or Blender. Salaries vary by location, industry, and skill level, but experienced professionals in the field often earn above average wages for creative roles.

How much do 3D modellers get paid?

3D character modelers typically earn between $45,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals working in gaming, film, or animation can earn higher salaries, especially with proficiency in tools like Maya or Blender.

What types of projects or teams do 3D Character Modelers typically work on?

3D Character Modelers often collaborate with concept artists, animators, riggers, and game designers on projects ranging from video games and animated films to cinematic trailers and virtual reality experiences. While some roles may be specialized and focus solely on character creation, many positions involve working closely with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure models are optimized for animation, rendering, and in-game performance. The workflow is highly collaborative, with ongoing feedback loops and iteration as part of the creative process. If you enjoy teamwork, contributing to high-impact visual storytelling, and refining your craft through feedback, this environment may be a great fit for you.

Will 3D modelers be replaced by AI?

3D character modelers create detailed digital models for use in games, films, and animations. While AI tools can assist with tasks like automating repetitive processes or generating base models, human expertise is still essential for creative decision-making, fine-tuning details, and ensuring quality. AI is more likely to augment rather than replace skilled 3D modelers in the foreseeable future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3D Character Modeler position, and why are they important?

Excelling as a 3D Character Modeler requires strong artistic ability, knowledge of human and creature anatomy, and proficiency in modeling techniques, often supported by a degree in art, animation, or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, ZBrush, and familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine is typically essential, along with experience in texturing tools like Substance Painter. Attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are highly valued soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial to producing visually compelling, technically sound character assets that integrate smoothly into diverse production pipelines.

More about 3D Character Modeler jobs
What cities are hiring for 3D Character Modeler jobs? Cities with the most 3D Character Modeler job openings:
What states have the most 3D Character Modeler jobs? States with the most job openings for 3D Character Modeler jobs include:
Infographic showing various 3D Character Modeler job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 11% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,472 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Are you driven to create games that engage players in a vibrant community? Would you like to contribute to a visually stunning world where art not only captivates but reinforces the mission of the game? Do you have a passion for how 3D character art enhances gameplay clarity, supporting players in making split-second decisions, and how character design can ignite both fandom and strategic depth? Join us at teamLFG!

As the 3D Character Art Lead at teamLFG, you will guide and help create art with the team from pre-production to production and beyond on our innovative new IP!

Your leadership will shape memorable characters that uphold gameplay fairness and clarity. You'll mentor your team with your extensive experience and keen eye for detail, ensuring every art decision enhances the gameplay space. Your efforts will exhilarate players and elevate the setting and tone for a new standard in PlayStation games.

As a leader for the character art team, you'll demonstrate a balance of artistic expertise with a player-first mindset, stretching beyond your role as you collaborate with a passionate, cross-discipline team dedicated to having a positive impact on players as we bring this new world to life.

We seek candidates who appreciate being part of a cohesive and supportive team with a wide array of backgrounds, experiences, interests, and perspectives.

Responsibilities:

Lead 3D character art and coordinate work with a multidisciplinary team accountable for character-building, including but not limited to narrative and design

Mentor and inspire a talented team of artists through all phases of production

Foster a safe culture for growth, feedback and coaching to encourage strong creative debate

Create strong processes and scalable art workflows that force multiply the team's efforts and define a high art quality bar, internally and externally with partner studios

Inspire and motivate the team with craft and process advisement

Embrace "we" culture in addition to being an outstanding collaborator and communicator

Develop internal and external style guides and workflows, and manage teams through creation of game assets

Be accountable to the art director visual goals and directions

Required Skills:

Deep understanding of the character art decisions that matter to competitive players in action or fighting games

Proven experience in early AAA game development leadership role(s)

Experience in leading art teams that include but not limited to 3D character art, character customization, NPC

Demonstrated skills and deep understanding of stylized art and style adaptability

Expert knowledge in Maya, Blender or Max, Substance

Expert knowledge in Unreal Engine

Strong organizational, analytical and problem-solving capability with high attention to detail

Strategic and critical thinking skills with a proactive, investigative mindset

Help created or established character customization in Unreal and scaled content with outsourcing companies

Nice-to-have Skills:

Platformer genre development experience

Experience working on a game with a high angle isometric camera perspective

Experience leading multiple teams on a live game ("game as a service")