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Character Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brainstorm ideas and create rapid 3D prototypes during the concept and design phase * Support the rest of the 3D team to create character assets * Review and fix bugs of all complexities * Contribute ...

Art Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

Define and document the visual style of Tolan's world - color, shape language, lighting, and character design - so others can execute it consistently. * Produce concept art, style frames, or 3D work ...

Expression of Interest - Character Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $136K/yr

The Character Artist will be responsible for creating highly realistic and expressive character ... They will collaborate with a team of artists and developers to conceptualize, design, and execute ...

Lead Character Artist

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

As Lead Character Artist, you will be responsible for creating and overseeing the production of high-quality character assets. You will have a direct impact on the visual identity of our games ...

As Lead Character Artist, you will be responsible for creating and overseeing the production of high-quality character assets. You will have a direct impact on the visual identity of our games ...

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Character Design information

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$10

$19

$37

How much do character design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for character design in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Character Designer typically collaborate with other team members during the production process?

Character Designers work closely with art directors, animators, writers, and sometimes 3D modelers to ensure their designs align with the project's visual style and narrative. Regular meetings and feedback sessions are common, where designers present sketches, receive input, and make iterative changes. Effective communication and openness to feedback are essential, as character designs often need to be adapted for animation, merchandising, or game mechanics. Collaboration helps ensure the characters not only look appealing but also function well in different media formats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Character Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Character Designer, you need strong drawing skills, a solid understanding of anatomy, color theory, and visual storytelling, often supported by a degree in art, illustration, or animation. Proficiency with digital illustration tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and drawing tablets is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication help character designers collaborate with teams and bring unique concepts to life. These skills are essential for creating compelling, memorable characters that visually support narratives and resonate with audiences.

How much do character designers make?

Character designers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals working in animation, gaming, or film can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by strong portfolios and proficiency in design software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.

What is the difference between Character Design vs Character Modeling?

AspectCharacter DesignCharacter Modeling
Primary FocusCreating the visual concept, style, and personality of charactersBuilding the 3D digital model based on designs
Required SkillsDrawing, illustration, concept art, creativity3D modeling, software proficiency (e.g., Maya, Blender)
Work EnvironmentConcept art studios, animation, gaming companies3D animation studios, game development, VFX
Common UsageDesigning characters' appearance and personalityCreating detailed 3D models for animation or games

While both roles are essential in character creation, Character Design focuses on conceptualizing and visualizing characters, whereas Character Modeling involves transforming those concepts into detailed 3D models. Understanding these differences helps professionals and employers identify the right skill set for each stage of character development.

What is character design?

Character design is the process of creating the visual appearance, personality, and style of characters for use in media such as animation, video games, comics, and films. Character designers combine art skills and storytelling to develop unique and memorable characters that fit the project's narrative and aesthetic. This includes designing physical features, clothing, expressions, and poses, often collaborating with writers, directors, and animators to ensure the characters support the story and appeal to the target audience.
More about Character Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Character Design jobs? Cities with the most Character Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Character Design jobs? The most popular types of Character Design jobs are:
What states have the most Character Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Character Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Character Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Creative Designer
Boca Raton, FL - onsite!
To provide creative artistic vision, look and feel for the game with innovative designs, work on game production and marketing materials, following latest game trends. Run the process from concept to layout to completed product.
ROLES AND EXPECTATIONS
• Work closely with Game designers to fundamentally understand the new Games mechanics, business reasoning, visual goals and intended target marketing intentions, that respond and support Game Design requirements and specifications.
• Create high quality game art that is production ready for Tech Design to move forward.
• Guide Tech Design team on animations.
• Research and follow the games, have a good understanding of Marketing requirements and trends.
• Assist with marketing direction, when possible assist by creating Marketing assets.
• Work on Product from concept layout phase through completed product, assisting beyond core role whenever possible (Green Man Testing, Marketing, General feedback...).
• Create original art mockups for all key game screens for all game layouts.
• Guide Team & Product by aligning work with game design vision.
SKILLS
• Proficiency in the Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) character design, illustration, environmental art.
• Detail oriented and organized work style.
• Expertise in working on multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Collaborative, open to feedback, great team player.
• Self motivated to achieve goals and complete tasks.