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Character Design Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arrow International, Inc.

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

The Senior Artist will use their artistic expertise with color, composition, shape, typography, animation, visual FX and character design skills to help push our games to new heights. You'll play a ...

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How much do character design artist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for character design 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.

How to become a character design artist?

To become a character design artist, develop strong drawing skills, build a portfolio showcasing original character concepts, and gain proficiency in digital art tools like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. A background in art, illustration, or animation and understanding of anatomy, color theory, and storytelling are also important for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Character Design Artist position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Character Design Artist, you need strong drawing skills, creativity, and a solid understanding of anatomy and color theory, often supported by a degree in art, illustration, or animation. Proficiency in industry-standard digital tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and 3D modeling software such as Blender or ZBrush is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and the ability to accept and integrate feedback make an artist stand out in collaborative environments. These skills ensure that character concepts not only meet creative briefs but also seamlessly fit within broader visual storytelling projects.

What is a Character Design Artist job?

A Character Design Artist creates the visual appearance of characters for animation, video games, comics, and other media. They develop personalities, costumes, and expressions that align with the story and artistic direction. This role requires strong drawing skills, creativity, and an understanding of anatomy and design principles. Character Design Artists often collaborate with writers, animators, and directors to bring unique and memorable characters to life.

How much does a character design artist make?

The average salary for a character design artist varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 per year. Freelance artists may charge hourly rates from $20 to $100 or more, depending on their skill level and project complexity. Proficiency in digital tools like Photoshop or Illustrator and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

What jobs involve character design?

Jobs that involve character design include roles such as character designer, concept artist, animation artist, and game artist. These positions typically require skills in drawing, digital illustration, and knowledge of design software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Character designers work in industries like video games, animation, film, and advertising to create visual concepts for characters.

What do character design artists do?

Character design artists create visual representations of characters for various media such as video games, animation, and comics. They develop concepts, sketches, and detailed illustrations, often using digital tools like Photoshop or Illustrator, to establish a character's appearance, personality, and style. Strong drawing skills, creativity, and understanding of anatomy and storytelling are essential for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Character Design Artist?

A Character Design Artist typically spends their day sketching and developing concepts, refining character turnarounds, and collaborating with art directors, animators, and writers to ensure designs align with the project's narrative. They may attend team meetings to pitch ideas or receive feedback, revise artwork based on input, and prepare detailed model sheets or style guides for production teams. The role often requires balancing creative exploration with meeting deadlines and design specifications. Working closely with other departments is common, making teamwork and adaptability crucial to the workflow.

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Character Design Artist jobs near you

Graphic Artist - Toddler through Big Boys Licensed Apparel

HIS LLC

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$139K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Company Description
We are a leading children's sportswear company doing business in licensed and private label with ALL major retailers across the USA.
Job Description
  • Create and develop original artwork and graphic designs for Toddler through Big Boys licensed apparel, ensuring alignment with brand standards and current trends.
  • Collaborate with the design team to conceptualize and execute seasonal collections across multiple categories.
  • Develop graphic concepts including character art, logos, typography, and patterns for licensed products.
  • Prepare final artwork files, ensuring they are print-ready and meet all production specifications.
  • Conduct market and trend research to inform design decisions, ensuring designs appeal to the target audience.
  • Work with product development and technical design teams to ensure seamless integration of graphics into final products.
  • Participate in fittings and review sessions to confirm that graphic placement, scale, and execution meet quality standards.
  • Communicate with licensors, vendors, and external partners to manage approvals and ensure all designs align with brand expectations.
  • Stay current with the latest software, tools, and techniques in graphic design and apparel production to continuously improve efficiency and quality.

Qualifications
  • 3-5 years of experience as a Graphic Artist or in a similar role within the licensed apparel industry, with a focus on children's fashion.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and other relevant design software.
  • Experience in creating licensed artwork, with a portfolio demonstrating strong skills in character design, typography, and print production.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to articulate creative ideas and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Must be in NYC or willing to relocate, as this is an on-site position.

Additional Information
All candidate information is confidential as according to EEO guidelines.

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