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Character Artist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Arena Stage

Scenic Artist

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and ...

Arena Stage

Scenic Artist

Washington, DC · On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Specialty Artist - MAC

Springfield, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty

Specialty Artist - MAC

Springfield, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty

Specialty Artist - MAC

Leesburg, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Specialty Artist - MAC

Leesburg, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Specialty Artist - MAC

Arlington, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Specialty Artist - MAC

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Specialty Artist - MAC

Leesburg, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty

Specialty Artist - MAC

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Specialty Artist - MAC

Springfield, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

GENERAL SUMMARY & SCOPE The Specialty Artist - MAC is responsible for maximizing sales in the MAC brand (including color cosmetics, skincare, and fragrance) by engaging guests to determine their ...

Building Kidz of Temple Hills

Be Seen First

Lead Infant/Toddler Teacher

Temple Hills, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the arts to accelerate the development of their Confidence, Commitment, and Character. Each child enrolled in our program will experience: Performing Arts Our proprietary PA curriculum fully ...

Building Kidz of Temple Hills

Be Seen First

Lead Infant/Toddler Teacher

Temple Hills, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the arts to accelerate the development of their Confidence, Commitment, and Character. Each child enrolled in our program will experience: Performing Arts Our proprietary PA curriculum fully ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsCharacter Artist JobsCharacter Artist Jobs in Reston, VA

Character Artist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$108.7K

$125.4K

$133.7K

How much do character artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for character artist in Reston, VA is $125,395.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,900.00 and $132,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a degree to be a character artist?

A degree is not strictly required to become a character artist, but many employers prefer candidates with a background in art, design, or related fields. Strong skills in digital sculpting, modeling software, and a compelling portfolio are often more important than formal education for this role.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.
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Character Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Artist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,395 per year, or $60.3 per hour.

Scenic Artist

Arena Stage

Washington, DC • On-site

$23 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

WHO WE AREArena Stage is the voice of American theater resident in our nation's capital. Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and diversity through a multitude of voices in our productions and community engagement programs to inspire people to action. WHAT WE VALUEA work culture that values experimentation and collaboration.Excellence in all aspects of our endeavor.Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion throughout the Organization and within our audience and the community.Community Service through education and public engagement.Lead effective partnerships and collaboration to serve artists and arts professionals. WHAT YOU'LL DOThe Scenic Artist acts as the primary scenic artist for all Arena Stage productions and events. MINIMUM/CORE REQUIREMENTS: 2-4 years experience scenic art, mural work, fine art, theatrical scenery, related artistic fields or educational equivalent1 year experience in a leadership roleSKILLS REQUIRED: Experience in faux finishing (wood grain, marble, stone, etc.), textures, foam carving/sculpting, drawing, drop layout work, color matching and mixing, aging & distressing techniquesAbility to use HVLP, airless, airbrush, and pump sprayers.Knowledge of current safety standards, MSDS's and OSHA practicesAbility to work quickly and efficiently while maintaining qualityAttention to detail in all aspectsAbility to read draftings and renderings/elevationsAbility to adapt to frequently changing circumstances, work collaboratively with other employees and guest artists, and maintain a positive attitude in challenging situationsKEY FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:Execute scenic treatments on all scenery pieces and specialty prop pieces, as directed by the Scenic Charge ArtistIn conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, lead a team of over hire scenic artists in the execution of scenic treatmentsIn conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, maintain paint shop tools, inventories, and cleanlinessIn conjunction with the Scenic Charge Artist, maintain all three theatre spaces for internal and external eventsCreate touch up kits for Production Carpenters to maintain the finish of each show throughout the runMay be required to work late nights and holidays depending on show needsPHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Ability to climb and work from lifts/ladders with or without reasonable accommodationFrequently required to use repetitive hand motions and to reach and bendAbility to stand for 8-10 hours per dayCapable of wearing a respirator The Washington Drama Society, Inc., Arena Stage does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at hr@arenastage.org.Offers of employment at Arena Stage are contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check and/or professional reference check as allowed by employment law in the District of Columbia. 
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