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Cgi Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. CGI Artist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Produce static CGI renders -- packshots, lifestyle composites, marketing render, e-commerce/app store imagery. * Produce motion and animation deliverables (turntables, reveal animations, social ...

CGI Artist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We're looking for a CGI Artist who thrives at being both highly-creative and technical. You'll collaborate closely with fellow CGI Artists, Industrial Designers, and Program Managers to produce high ...

CGI Artist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$3.0K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking for a CGI Artist who thrives at being both highly-creative and technical. You'll collaborate closely with fellow CGI Artists, Industrial Designers, and Program Managers to produce high ...

CGI Artist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$3.0K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking for a CGI Artist who thrives at being both highly-creative and technical. You'll collaborate closely with fellow CGI Artists, Industrial Designers, and Program Managers to produce high ...

Sr. CGI Artist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview This is our first CGI hire, is crucial to set up the brand tone. We need product renders and animations at the quality level of top consumer tech launches: clean materials, controlled studio ...

Sr. CGI Artist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview This is our first CGI hire, is crucial to set up the brand tone. We need product renders and animations at the quality level of top consumer tech launches: clean materials, controlled studio ...

OpenAI Global Alliance Manager - Director

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CGI's Global Alliance team is passionate about crafting strategic offerings and partnerships, working across industries to shape the strategic direction and growth of CGI. This strategic global team ...

Passport Support Associate III

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$23.54/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CGI Federal is looking for experienced Support Associates to support the San Diego Passport Agency. The ideal candidates should possess excellent communication skills, have experience in working with ...

Passport Support Associate III

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$26.82/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CGI Federal is looking for experienced Support Associates to support the San Francisco Passport Agency. The ideal candidates should possess excellent communication skills, have experience in working ...

IT Desktop Technician

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CGI is required by law in some jurisdictions to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. The determination of this range includes various factors not limited to skill ...

ERP Technical Analyst

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CGI is seeking an ERP Technical Analyst to join our collaborative team supporting a large-scale ERP solution for a long-term government client. We are looking for a customer-focused professional who ...

ECM Developer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

CGI is required by law in some jurisdictions to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. The determination of this range includes various factors not limited to skill ...

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Showing results 1-20

Cgi information

See California salary details

$23.2K

$37.2K

$50.3K

How much do cgi jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for cgi in California is $37,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,100.00 and $41,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CGI artist?

To thrive as a CGI Artist, you need strong skills in visual design, 3D modeling, animation, and a solid understanding of computer graphics principles, often supported by a degree in graphic design or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Adobe Creative Suite, and rendering engines like V-Ray is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for producing visually compelling digital content that meets client specifications and project deadlines in a collaborative environment.

Do CGI jobs require a degree?

CGI jobs, such as computer-generated imagery artists or 3D modelers, typically do not require a formal degree but often prefer candidates with a background in computer graphics, animation, or related fields. Skills in software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe Creative Suite, along with a strong portfolio, are usually more important than formal education. However, some roles may prefer or require a degree in computer science, graphic design, or a related discipline.

What are some common challenges faced by CGI artists when working on collaborative projects, and how can they be addressed?

CGI artists often work in teams alongside animators, modelers, and technical directors, making communication and workflow coordination essential. Common challenges include managing tight deadlines, ensuring consistency in visual style, and integrating assets from multiple contributors. These challenges can be addressed by maintaining clear documentation, using version control systems, and participating in regular team meetings to align on project goals and updates. Being proactive in seeking feedback and staying organized helps ensure smooth collaboration and high-quality results.

What is a CGI?

CGI professionals are specialists who create computer-generated imagery (CGI) for use in films, television, video games, advertising, and other digital media. They use advanced software and artistic skills to design visual effects, animations, and virtual environments that would be difficult or impossible to produce with traditional filming techniques. CGI experts often collaborate with directors, animators, and other creative team members to bring imaginative concepts to life on screen. Their work can range from subtle enhancements to fully animated worlds.

What is the difference between Cgi vs 3D Artist?

AspectCgi3D Artist
Required CredentialsOften a degree or certification in computer graphics, animation, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, including degrees in art, animation, or design
Work EnvironmentFilm, gaming, advertising, and visual effects studiosAnimation studios, gaming companies, advertising agencies, and freelance work
Industry UsageUsed broadly in visual effects, animation, and digital content creationSpecializes in creating 3D models, textures, and animations for various media

While both Cgi and 3D Artist roles involve digital content creation, Cgi typically refers to the broader process of computer-generated imagery used in various media, whereas 3D Artist focuses specifically on creating 3D models and animations. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities in California are hiring for Cgi jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cgi job openings:

Infographic showing various Cgi job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,220 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Sr. CGI Artist

TP-Link Systems Inc.

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

About Us: 

Headquartered in the United States, TP-Link Systems Inc. is a global provider of reliable networking devices and smart home products, consistently ranked as the world’s top provider of Wi-Fi devices. The company is committed to delivering innovative products that enhance people’s lives through faster, more reliable connectivity. With a commitment to excellence, TP-Link serves customers in over 170 countries and continues to grow its global footprint.

We believe technology changes the world for the better! At TP-Link Systems Inc, we are committed to crafting dependable, high-performance products to connect users worldwide with the wonders of technology. 

Embracing professionalism, innovation, excellence, and simplicity, we aim to assist our clients in achieving remarkable global performance and enable consumers to enjoy a seamless, effortless lifestyle. 

Overview

This is our first CGI hire, is crucial to set up the brand tone. We need product renders and animations at the quality level of top consumer tech launches: clean materials, controlled studio lighting, and smooth motion.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Set the visual direction for our product imagery: lighting style, materials/shaders, camera angles, overall look.

• Produce static CGI renders — packshots, lifestyle composites, marketing render, e-commerce/app store imagery.

• Produce motion and animation deliverables (turntables, reveal animations, social content, launch videos) in Cinema 4D.

• Build and maintain a reusable asset library (models, materials, HDRIs, lighting rigs) so future work stays consistent.

• Work with creative director closely and product to turn rough direction into concrete visuals.

• Own the pipeline end-to-end: modeling/import, texturing, lighting, rendering, compositing, delivery.

• Keep an eye on new rendering and AI-assisted tools and flag where they could speed up our work.

Requirements

Must Haves

• 7+ years of professional CGI/3D experience, with a portfolio showing photoreal product visualization (consumer electronics or similar hardware preferred).

• Expert-level Cinema 4D — modeling, materials/shaders, lighting, camera work, animation/keyframing.

• Solid understanding of how real materials (anodized metal, glass, polycarbonate, etc.) behave under studio lighting, and how to light them to look premium

• Able to own a render pipeline solo, start to finish, with strong attention to detail (reflections, edge highlights, subtle imperfections).

• Compositing skills in After Effects and/or Photoshop to finish renders.

• Good eye for light, color, and composition, and able to set a direction from a loose brief.

• Clear communicator as you'll be explaining visual decisions to non-technical stakeholders.

Nice to Haves

• Experience with a renderer such as Redshift, Octane, Arnold, or V-Ray.

• Experience with motion for social formats (Reels, TikTok, vertical video).

• Background in industrial design, product photography, or working from CAD files.

• Familiarity with real-time engines (Unreal, Unity) or AI image/video tools.

Portfolio

Please apply with a working portfolio link. Without it, we won't be able to consider your application. Your portfolio should show product-focused CGI work, not character or environment art, showcasing your handling of materials, lighting, and camera. A turntable or reveal animation is a plus.

Benefits

Salary Range: $130,000 - $150,000

  • Free snacks and drinks.
  • Fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance (partial coverage for dependents)
  • Contributions to 401k funds
  • Bi-annual reviews, and annual pay increases
  • Health and wellness benefits, including free gym membership
  • Quarterly team-building events

At TP-Link Systems Inc., we are continually searching for ambitious individuals who are passionate about their work. We believe that diversity fuels innovation, collaboration, and drives our entrepreneurial spirit. As a global company, we highly value diverse perspectives and are committed to cultivating an environment where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. We are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, and we prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Beyond compliance, we strive to create a supportive and growth-oriented workplace for everyone. If you share our passion and connection to this mission, we welcome you to apply and join us in building a vibrant and inclusive team at TP-Link Systems Inc.

Please, no third-party agency inquiries, and we are unable to offer visa sponsorships at this time.