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Character Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

United Parks & Resorts

Costume Character

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.50/hr

Perform as Costume Character, Character Escort, and/or Puppeteer both in park and out-of-park as ... Previous experience in the fields of dance, theater, athletics, or other performance arts preferred.

Epic Games

Character Outsource Lead

Cary, NC · On-site

ART What We Do Push your artistic talent to the limit on a team of world-class environment, character and concept artists who strive to innovate and inspire. What You'll Do Epic Games is searching ...

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Character Artist information

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$104.5K

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$128.5K

How much do character artist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for character artist in the United States is $120,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,000.00 and $127,000.00 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 formal education in art, design, or related fields. Strong skills in digital sculpting, modeling, and proficiency with tools like ZBrush or Blender are often more important than formal credentials. Building a portfolio and gaining practical experience can be more critical for success in 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.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For a Character Artist, earning $300,000 annually is uncommon and typically requires senior-level experience, specialization in high-demand areas like AAA game development or film, and often involves working in leadership or supervisory roles. High salaries may also be achieved through freelance work, consulting, or working at large studios with profit-sharing or bonuses, but such compensation levels are rare in the industry.

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, and why are they important?

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 much money 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 advanced skills in software like ZBrush or Maya.

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.

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 the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,531 per year, or $57.9 per hour.
Costume Character

Costume Character

United Parks & Resorts

Tampa, FL • On-site

$15.50/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Ambassador Position at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what it's like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!

Must attend an in-person audition on:

  • Saturday June 28 – check in at 11, Audition at 11:30
  • Tuesday July 7- check in 4:30 pm, Audition at 5pm

Please check in at the Busch Gardens HR Building: 3605 E Bougainvillea Ave, Tampa, FL 33612

Please wear form fitting dance attire and be prepared to learn a movement combination.

Please have headshot and resume ready

What you get to do:

  • Embody the childlike innocence, enthusiasm, and mannerisms of the characters
  • Enthusiastically represent the park by displaying a positive attitude, high level of energy, and commitment to quality throughout all aspects of the job.
  • Perform as Costume Character, Character Escort, and/or Puppeteer both in park and out-of-park as assigned
  • Perform in stage offerings, storytimes, meet-and-greets, and special events as assigned
  • Serve as an expert performer for multiple assigned characters, with the ability to perform all characters in your height range
  • Perform duties of an expert character escort, which include facilitating interaction and communication between character and guests, providing directions and park information, and entertaining guests.
  • May assist with character training and rehearsals.
  • Openly accepts performance feedback and critique and adapts accordingly.
  • Execute pre and post show backstage duties as outlined in the daily schedule
  • Ensure adherence to safety and procedural directions that accompany this position
  • Consistently and expertly executes stage direction and show content as directed by leadership.
  • Maintains a positive and flexible attitude.
  • Positively interacts with guests, employees, and others.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What it takes to succeed:

  • Height range of 4'11" to 6'2" with slender, athletic build
  • Personable and animated with a fun, outgoing personality
  • Strong ability to communicate with guests on mic
  • Ability to perform outside in a full body costume
  • Ability to openly accept performance feedback/critiques and adapt accordingly
  • Ability to work indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions and temperature extremes while performing in a character costume
  • Demonstrated strong costume and escorting skills
  • At least 18 years old
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Ability to lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds
  • Availability to work varying shifts or hours based on park hours; i.e. be able to work opening and closing shifts, as well as after hour rehearsals
  • Ability to move and dance in full costume at a standard consistent with creative intent
  • Ability to maintain character integrity
  • Willingness to participate in regular internal performance assessments
  • Previous costume character and/or dance experience preferred
  • Previous guest experience in a high-volume capacity preferred
  • Previous experience in the fields of dance, theater, athletics, or other performance arts preferred.
  • Be able to positively interact with guests and co-workers of all ages, different ethnic/cultural backgrounds and/or language, and individuals with special needs.
  • Strong verbal communication skills.
  • Stand, walk and/or sit for prolonged periods of time.
  • Audition requirements may include dance, movement, script memorization, role playing, comedic improvisation, and miming as necessary.

What else is important:

  • Be able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
  • Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
  • Be able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat. Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors, and cold/heat temperature extremes
  • Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals
  • Work a flexible schedule/hour based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Be flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities
  • Must be able to participate in an in-person audition at a pre-determined time

Compensation:

  • Pay rate is $15.50 per hour.

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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