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Assistant Visual Development Artist Jobs in Niles, IL

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$130K - $156K/yr

Experience implementing visual effects in an industry standard or proprietary Game Engine from ... Support for personal professional development

NxT Level

Technical Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Experience implementing visual effects in an industry standard or proprietary Game Engine from ... Support for personal professional development

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All JobsVisual Development Artist JobsAssistant Visual Development Artist JobsAssistant Visual Development Artist Jobs in Niles, IL

Assistant Visual Development Artist information

See Niles, IL salary details

$36.3K

$107.3K

$151.8K

How much do assistant visual development artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant visual development artist in Niles, IL is $107,323.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,100.00 and $151,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Visual Development Artist vs Concept Artist?

AspectAssistant Visual Development ArtistConcept Artist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in art, illustration, or related fieldRequires a similar art degree, portfolio, and often specialized training
Work EnvironmentCollaborates closely with visual development teams in animation, gaming, or film studiosWorks independently or with teams to create initial visual ideas and character designs
Industry UsageCommonly used in animation, gaming, and film productionPrimarily used in concept art, pre-production, and visual storytelling

While both roles involve creating visual art for entertainment industries, the Assistant Visual Development Artist supports the broader visual development process, often focusing on refining and assisting, whereas the Concept Artist primarily generates initial ideas and designs. Both roles require strong artistic skills and industry experience, but the Assistant Visual Development Artist typically works under supervision to assist in the development of visual assets.

What are some common challenges Assistant Visual Development Artists face when adapting a director's vision into visual concepts?

Assistant Visual Development Artists often encounter the challenge of translating a director's abstract ideas or broad themes into concrete visual elements that align with the project's style. Balancing creative input with established visual guidelines and tight deadlines can be demanding, especially when multiple revisions are required. Close collaboration with senior artists and other departments, such as story and character design, is essential to ensure consistency and clarity throughout the development process. Adapting quickly to feedback and maintaining flexibility in your creative approach are key skills in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Visual Development Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Visual Development Artist, a strong foundation in art fundamentals, digital illustration, and design principles is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or portfolio. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and occasionally 3D tools like Blender or Maya is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication are important soft skills that help in interpreting direction and collaborating with other artists. These skills ensure the creation of compelling visual concepts that align with project goals and contribute to a cohesive creative vision.

What does an Assistant Visual Development Artist do?

An Assistant Visual Development Artist supports the creative team by helping to design and develop the visual style of animated films, games, or other media projects. They assist with tasks such as creating concept art, color scripts, and mood boards, and may also help with research and gathering references. Their work helps establish the look and feel of characters, environments, and props before production begins. This role is often collaborative, working closely with senior artists and directors to bring the project's vision to life.
What cities near Niles, IL are hiring for Assistant Visual Development Artist jobs? Cities near Niles, IL with the most Assistant Visual Development Artist job openings:
Assistant Visual Development Artist jobs near you

Professor (open-rank) in Open Medium Visual Arts

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Visual Arts (DoVA) at the University of Chicago invites applications from practicing artists well-versed in contemporary issues across all artistic disciplines to join the tenure-track faculty at the rank of Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, or Professor, with an expected start date of July 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.
The selected candidate will pursue their own creative agenda, will collaborate with faculty in the Department of Visual Arts and other areas of the Division of the Arts & Humanities and University on creative, research, and pedagogical projects. Faculty members in DoVA typically teach four courses per year on the quarter system in both the undergraduate and graduate curriculum. Additional responsibilities include advising at all levels of the program and service on departmental and University committees.
Salary Range or Pay Grade:
Assistant Professor: $90,000-$120,000; Associate Professor: $115,000-$150,000; Full Professor $140,000-$200,000. This base pay range is for a nine-month academic appointment paid over twelve months. The position also includes a relocation allowance for qualifying expenses.
This is a benefits-eligible position. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Qualifications
The successful candidate will have an active artistic agenda resulting in a national and/or international exhibition and publication history, or the potential to develop such a history, as well as a record of teaching and mentoring expertise at the undergraduate and graduate levels, or the potential to become an excellent teacher and mentor. The selected candidate will also be expected to participate in helping shape the future of a visual arts department housed within an internationally renowned research institution.
Applicants must have completed all requirements for receipt of an MFA in a relevant visual arts area or other relevant degree prior to the start of the appointment or must have comparable professional experience.
Application Instructions
Applicants must upload the following materials to the University of Chicago's recruitment website at apply.interfolio.com/189582. Review of applications will begin on September 8, 2026, and will continue until the posting is closed or a candidate is selected.
  • A current curriculum vitae containing name, phone, email, mailing address, website (if applicable), as well as education, residencies, exhibition, and publications
  • A cover letter that addresses your artistic background and experience, teaching experience, and interest in joining the faculty of a research institution.
  • An artist statement articulates how the applicant's work engages its form. What are your ambitions for your work?
  • Portfolio link to samples of work, including titles, scale and materials information
  • Contact information for three recommenders who may be asked to provide letters on behalf of your application

Only complete applications can be considered. Applicants will be asked to provide a teaching statement and other additional materials following the initial review of applications. Questions may be directed to Joyce Kuechler at jkuechler@uchicago.edu.
This position is contingent upon budgetary approval.

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