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Character Artist Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

KOHLS

Advanced Artist - Men's

Menomonee Falls, WI · On-site

$127K - $152K/yr

You'll work onsite from Monday through Thursday, with the option to work remotely on Fridays. About the Role As an Advanced Artist, your primary responsibility will be creating high-volume, quality ...

Great Wolf Resorts

Entertainment Ambassador

Baraboo, WI · On-site

$15/hr

Interact with families while leading different hands on activities such as arts and crafts, bingo, board games, etc... * Responsible for all aspects of Character Appearances and Entertainment at the ...

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All JobsCharacter Artist JobsCharacter Artist Jobs in Wisconsin

Character Artist information

See Wisconsin salary details

$105.5K

$121.7K

$129.7K

How much do character artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for character artist in Wisconsin is $121,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,100.00 and $128,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a character artist?

A character artist is part of the team that designs animated characters, primarily in the video game industry. As a character artist, you work closely with the art director and the lead character artist. Your job duties are to create 2D illustrations and 3D models based on sketches you receive from the concept artist. As you create each iteration of a character, you present your designs to the rest of the team for feedback, then make tweaks and improvements. Finally, you enhance the 3D computer model with definition, weight, color, shading, and texture. These duties may be divided up between different artists, as 3D and 2D animation require very different skills.

What is a character artist?

A Character Artist is a professional who specializes in designing, modeling, and texturing characters for video games, movies, animations, and other digital media. They work closely with concept artists and animators to bring creative visions to life, ensuring that characters are visually appealing and suitable for production needs. Character Artists typically use 3D modeling software, sculpting tools, and digital painting programs to create detailed and expressive characters.

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

To thrive as a Character Artist, you need strong artistic fundamentals in anatomy, form, and color, often backed by a degree in art, design, or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard 3D modeling and sculpting software like ZBrush, Maya, and Substance Painter, along with familiarity with game engines, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are the standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing visually compelling, technically sound characters that enhance the overall quality of games or animation projects.

How does a character artist typically collaborate with other departments during a game development project?

Character Artists work closely with concept artists, animators, and riggers to bring characters to life in a game. They often start by interpreting concept art, then create 3D models and textures, ensuring their designs align with the game's visual style. Regular feedback sessions with the art director and technical artists help ensure that character assets are optimized for performance and meet project requirements. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as Character Artists often need to make adjustments based on input from other teams.

What is the difference between Character Artist vs 3D Modeler?

AspectCharacter Artist3D Modeler
Required SkillsConcept art, anatomy, texturing, riggingModeling, topology, UV mapping
Work EnvironmentGame studios, animation, filmGame studios, VFX, product design
Common Industry UsageCreating detailed characters for games/filmsModeling various objects, including characters

While both roles involve 3D modeling, a Character Artist specializes in designing and creating detailed character models, focusing on anatomy, textures, and character-specific features. A 3D Modeler has a broader scope, modeling a variety of objects, including characters, environments, and props. The Character Artist often works closely with concept artists and animators to bring characters to life, whereas the 3D Modeler may work across multiple asset types. Both roles require strong modeling skills, but the Character Artist emphasizes character-specific artistry and detail.

How much do character artists make?

Character artists typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level artists may start lower, while experienced professionals working in gaming or film can earn higher salaries, especially with proficiency in tools like ZBrush or Maya.

How to work as a character artist?

To work as a character artist, develop strong skills in 3D modeling, sculpting, and texturing using tools like Blender, Maya, or ZBrush. Build a portfolio showcasing your character designs, gain experience through internships or freelance projects, and stay updated on industry trends and software updates. A relevant degree or certification in art, animation, or related fields can also enhance your prospects.
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Character Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Artist job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,658 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Make Up Artist

THIRTEENTH FLOOR ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

Madison, TN

Temporary

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Makeup Artist – Seasonal Madison TN  | Seasonal | Sept - Nov

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment—and proudly the world's largest operator of Halloween attractions. With eighteen markets spanning Florida to California and millions of guests thrilled each year, we don't just produce events. We redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Denver and powered by a team of fearless creators, we've built a culture where curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to go beyond expectations are the standard—not the exception. When you join Thirteenth Floor, you're not just taking a job. You're stepping into the magic behind the screams.

Returning applicants: If you have worked for Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group in a prior season, please contact your location manager directly regarding rehire status. Do not submit a new application through the online system.

What You'll Do

As our Seasonal Makeup Artist, you're the creative force behind the nightmares. Every character that haunts our guests starts in your chair—your artistry, speed, and precision transform performers into unforgettable creatures that make our attraction legendary.

Transformative Makeup Artistry

  • Craft professional-grade special effects looks for actors based on established look books and original character designs

  • Execute a full range of techniques including airbrushing, hand-painting, and prosthetic application to bring characters to life

  • Ensure every application is durable enough to withstand hours of intense performance, movement, and environmental conditions

  • Faithfully execute established designs while contributing your own creative flair where appropriate

Time Management & Show Pacing

  • Work swiftly and efficiently to complete complex looks within tight pre-show windows

  • Manage multiple actors simultaneously, prioritizing touch-ups and reapplications throughout the night to keep every character show-ready

Station Management

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and fully sanitized workspace at all times

  • Monitor inventory, care for all tools and supplies, and report restocking needs proactively

  • Adapt your station setup to varying locations, space limitations, and nightly demands

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner with the costume department to ensure cohesive, compelling character presentations

  • Communicate clearly with actors about application processes, product use, and aftercare

  • Collaborate with fellow artists to maintain visual consistency and share techniques that elevate the overall aesthetic

Adaptability & Professionalism

  • Respond quickly to last-minute character changes, actor substitutions, or design adjustments mid-show

  • Troubleshoot makeup challenges in demanding conditions—low light, outdoor settings, high humidity

  • Participate in pre-season training to master character designs and expand your technical toolkit

  • Maintain a calm, positive, and professional demeanor that respects every performer's comfort and personal space

What You Bring

  • Demonstrated experience in special effects, theatrical, or character makeup—haunted attraction or live entertainment experience strongly preferred

  • Proficiency in prosthetics, airbrushing, hand-painting, and SFX techniques

  • Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure without sacrificing quality

  • Strong collaborative instincts and clear communication skills with performers and fellow artists

  • Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive about station and inventory management

  • Comfortable standing and moving throughout the event area for the duration of each shift

  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and all scheduled event dates—reliable attendance is essential

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

Employment Details
Employment Type: Seasonal/Temporary
Expected Season Duration: Late September – Early November 2026
Work Schedule: Evenings, weekends, and holidays required during operational season

This is a seasonal/temporary position with an anticipated end date. Employment beyond the stated season is not guaranteed.

E-Verify

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group participates in E-Verify. As required by federal law, we will verify the identity and employment eligibility of all hired individuals.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Reasonable Accommodations

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations at any point in the hiring process by contacting hr@thirteenthfloor.com.

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