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Artist Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Working in partnership with classroom educators and Music Center staff, Teaching Artists foster creativity, artistic skill development, critical thinking, and meaningful learning experiences while ...

... or artist development program ● Existing networks across music, dance, performing arts, creator, fashion, acting, or youth communities ● Experience working with minors and their parents or ...

Casting Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

... or artist development program * - Existing networks across music, dance, performing arts, creator, fashion, acting, or youth communities * - Experience working with minors and their parents or ...

Through global artist development, IP operations, designer toy culture evangelism, and strategic investments, we have built an integrated platform covering the entire designer toy value chain ...

Through global artist development, IP operations, designer toy culture evangelism, and strategic investments, we have built an integrated platform covering the entire designer toy value chain ...

This person should have a strong understanding of artist development; streaming, digital and traditional retail/revenue business; live touring, events and festivals; creative and content strategy ...

Showing results 21-40

Artist Development information

See California salary details

$9

$24

$39

How much do artist development jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for artist development in California is $24.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is artist development?

Artist development refers to the process of nurturing and guiding musicians or performers in building their careers. This includes honing their talent, crafting their image, developing their sound, and preparing them for the music industry. Artist development often involves mentoring, branding, marketing, songwriting, live performance coaching, and connecting with industry professionals. The goal is to create well-rounded artists who are ready for commercial success and long-term careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in artist development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Artist Development, you need a solid understanding of music industry trends, talent scouting, and project management, often supported by a background in music business or related fields. Familiarity with digital marketing tools, music distribution platforms, and artist management software is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and adaptability help you build relationships with artists and tailor strategies to their unique strengths. These skills are vital for guiding artists' careers and ensuring their long-term growth and success in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced in an artist development role, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Artist Development often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with commercial viability, managing multiple artists’ expectations, and navigating fast-paced industry changes. Building strong communication skills and staying informed about music trends can help address these challenges. Additionally, collaborating closely with marketing, A&R, and management teams ensures a well-rounded approach to nurturing artists' careers. Proactively seeking feedback and maintaining flexibility are key to overcoming obstacles and supporting artists effectively.

What is the difference between Artist Development vs Artist Manager?

AspectArtist DevelopmentArtist Manager
CredentialsMusic industry knowledge, marketing skills, networkingMusic industry knowledge, negotiation, communication skills
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, label offices, artist workshopsArtist's office, concert venues, industry events
Employer & Industry UsageRecord labels, management companies, independent consultantsArtists, record labels, management firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in artist growthManaging artist careers and business

Artist Development focuses on nurturing an artist’s skills, image, and overall potential, often working behind the scenes to prepare artists for commercial success. In contrast, an Artist Manager handles the business side, including contracts, bookings, and career strategy. While both roles support artists, Artist Development is more about growth and training, whereas Artist Management manages day-to-day career operations.

What does an artist development do?

An artist development professional helps emerging artists improve their skills, build their brand, and prepare for commercial success. They may provide coaching, marketing strategies, and industry guidance to support the artist's growth and career progression.

What are the most commonly searched types of Artist Development jobs in California?

The most popular types of Artist Development jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Artist Development jobs in California?

For Artist Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Artist Development jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Artist Development jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Artist Development jobs?

Cities in California with the most Artist Development job openings:

Infographic showing various Artist Development job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,591 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Visual Development Artist

Sony Pictures Animation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$59.16 - $85/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

The Visual Development Artist works closely with the Production Designer, Art Director, and other creative leadership to visually develop and design all elements of the feature film, including sets, locations, props, characters, visual effects, color schemes, and overall style. This is a union-covered position.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

Responsibilities:
  • Work under the guidance of the Production Designer and Art Director to generate artwork related to sets, locations, props, characters, visual effects, color schemes, and overall style
  • Generate work across all stages of production, including sketches, rough explorations, refined designs, and final paintings
  • Create artwork that informs the early story and visual development process, as well as the production process
  • Collaborate with creative leadership to translate the vision for the film from concept to finished look
  • When requested, build and present innovative ideas to improve visual concepts and designs
  • Ensure all artwork is accurately backed up, organized and stored appropriately
  • Contribute creative solutions, respond effectively to feedback, and iterate on designs throughout production
  • Proactively communicate questions, issues, or production concerns to supervisors and production staff
  • Meet production schedules and deadlines while maintaining a high level of artistic quality and consistency
Qualifications:
  • Must exhibit proficiency in drawing (including human and animal anatomy), design, perspective, composition, painting, lighting and color theory 
  • Must be comfortable working in a variety of styles - from "cartoony" to highly realistic.  
  • Areas of expertise to include one or more of the following: set/location/props design; character/costume design; special effects design; and/or color styling
  • A solid understanding of 2D to 3D translations and hands-on use of 2D or 3D tools in your design process is helpful
  • Able to solve problems creatively
  • Manage time efficiently
  • The ability to work creatively in a fast-paced production environment under pressure
  • Self-motivated, good communication skills, and an excellent teammate with a phenomenal outlook
  • Working knowledge of software and hardware, including Photoshop and Cintiq

The anticipated base salary for this position is $59.16/hour to $85.00/hour. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement.The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors.

To apply, please include a resume and a link to your portfolio. Please make sure to include any passwords to your work in your cover letter and/or in your resume.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.