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Character Artist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Building Kidz of Temple Hills

Be Seen First

Lead Teacher - Preschool

Temple Hills, MD · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ultimate goal is to foster accelerated development in character, confidence, and commitment among the children we nurture. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed as a comprehensive arts ...

Building Kidz of Temple Hills

Be Seen First

Lead Teacher - Preschool

Temple Hills, MD · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our ultimate goal is to foster accelerated development in character, confidence, and commitment among the children we nurture. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed as a comprehensive arts ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 16, 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.

School Accompanist - SE Campus

The Washington Ballet

Washington, DC • On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Department:  SE Campus

Position Title:  School Accompanist

Reports to:        Artistic Administrator, SE Campus

Classification:    Part-time, Seasonal

Hourly Wage Range: $40-$45

Location:         1901 Mississippi Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020

Scope:

The School Accompanist is a member of the music team responsible for providing live piano accompaniment for ballet and related dance classes, including classical ballet, pointe, pas de deux, variations, and character. The accompanist collaborates closely with faculty to provide music that supports technical instruction, artistry, and musicality for students of varying ages and levels. The successful candidate demonstrates excellent sight-reading, improvisation, and a broad classical repertoire while adapting to a variety of teaching styles.

General Responsibilities:

  • Accompany ballet classes for students in Pre-Ballet through Upper Division, Trainee, and Adult Programs as assigned.
  • Collaborate with faculty to provide music appropriate to the technical and artistic objectives of each class.
  • Adjust tempo, dynamics, phrasing, and musical selections to meet instructional needs.
  • Improvise when appropriate to support combinations and classroom instruction.
  • Arrive prepared and on time for assigned classes and rehearsals.
  • Maintain professional communication with faculty, supervisors, and staff.
  • Attend accompanist meetings or training sessions as requested.

Internal Contacts:

School Director, Managing Director, Artistic Administrator, Faculty, other front-facing staff

Qualifications - Education and Experience

Professional experience accompanying ballet classes or rehearsals in a professional ballet company, conservatory, or dance school preferred.

Professional and Technical Competencies:

  • Strong piano performance skills, including sight-reading and improvisation.
  • Broad knowledge of classical music repertoire appropriate for ballet training.
  • Understanding of ballet class structure, terminology, musical phrasing, and tempo.
  • Ability to observe dancers while playing and respond quickly to instructional cues.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with faculty possessing a variety of teaching styles.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Flexible, dependable, and able to adapt to changing classroom needs.
  • Supports the mission, values, and educational philosophy of The Washington Ballet and The Washington School of Ballet.

Knowledge of:

  • Piano performance
  • Classical music repertoire
  • Music theory and improvisation
  • Ballet terminology and class structure

Equipment Knowledge and Use:

  • PC and software
  • Standard office equipment

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit and play piano for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift or move music books and materials up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to move between studios throughout the workday.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Benefits

  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Free adult drop-in dance classes
  • Comp and discount tickets to TWB shows

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional background and experience in the performing arts. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

About The Washington Ballet

Founded more than 80 years ago, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; to provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and to serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.

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