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Character Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Side

3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

$123K - $130K/yr

This mid-level generalist role focuses on modeling, texturing, and optimizing character assets across a variety of styles for AAA-quality games on PC, console, mobile, and VR/AR platforms. How We ...

Character.ai

Research Engineer, Multimodal

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$225K - $400K/yr

The Multimodal team is responsible for training, fine-tuning, and deploying cutting-edge image, audio and video generation models that power Character.AI's visual experiences. We work across the full ...

teamLFG

OR

Do you have a passion for how 3D character art enhances gameplay clarity, supporting players in making split-second decisions, and how character design can ignite both fandom and strategic depth?

The Principia

Athletics: Graduate Assistant

Elsah, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Character - Modeling the way; Professionalism (behavior, appropriate conduct) * Oral and Written Communication Special Requirements: * Willingness to work nights and weekends * Ability and desire to ...

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Character Modeling information

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$10

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How much do character modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for character modeling 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 to start modelling a character?

To start modelling a character as a character modeler, begin by gathering reference images and sketching concepts. Use 3D modeling software like Blender, Maya, or ZBrush to create a base mesh, focusing on anatomy and proportions, then refine details and topology for animation or rendering. Developing skills in anatomy, topology, and texturing is essential for effective character modeling.

What is the difference between Character Modeling vs Character Rigging?

AspectCharacter ModelingCharacter Rigging
Primary FocusCreating the 3D character's shape, details, and surfaceBuilding the skeleton and controls to animate the character
Required SkillsModeling, topology, texturingSkeleton setup, weight painting, control systems
Work Environment3D modeling software (e.g., Maya, Blender)Rigging tools within 3D software, collaboration with modelers and animators
Industry UsageUsed in character creation for games, films, animationUsed in preparing characters for animation and movement

Character Modeling and Character Rigging are both essential roles in the 3D character creation pipeline. Modeling focuses on shaping and detailing the character's appearance, while rigging involves creating the underlying skeleton and controls for animation. Both require specialized skills and often work closely together to produce a fully functional animated character.

How much does a character modeler make?

The average salary for a character modeler ranges from $50,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level modelers typically earn less, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Skills in software like Maya, Blender, or ZBrush and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Character Modeler, you need expertise in digital sculpting, anatomy, texturing, and 3D modeling, often supported by a relevant degree or portfolio of work. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter, as well as familiarity with game engines like Unreal or Unity, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you interpret artistic direction and collaborate effectively with other team members. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality, visually compelling characters that meet project requirements and contribute to immersive digital experiences.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of character modeling, experienced 3D artists working freelance or for high-paying clients can earn $10,000 or more per month by creating detailed models for video games, movies, or virtual reality. Success typically depends on advanced skills in software like Blender or Maya, a strong portfolio, and industry experience, rather than formal education.

What are some common challenges character modelers face when working on large team projects?

Character modelers often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistency in style and scale across different artists' work, integrating feedback from art directors, and ensuring that models meet technical requirements for animation and game engines. Collaboration and communication are key, as modelers must regularly sync with riggers, animators, and texture artists to ensure the character assets fit seamlessly into the project's pipeline. Staying organized and adaptable helps in managing revisions and meeting tight production deadlines.

What does a character modeler do?

A character modeler creates 3D digital representations of characters for use in video games, movies, or animations. They use software like Maya or Blender to sculpt, texture, and optimize models for rendering and animation, often collaborating with animators and riggers. Strong artistic skills and knowledge of anatomy, topology, and industry standards are essential for this role.

What is character modeling?

Character modeling is the process of creating 3D digital representations of characters for use in video games, movies, animation, and other digital media. Artists use specialized software, such as Blender, Maya, or ZBrush, to sculpt, shape, and detail the character's form, including their anatomy, clothing, and accessories. The goal is to create visually appealing and realistic or stylized characters that can be animated and integrated into various digital projects. Character modelers need a strong understanding of anatomy, artistic principles, and technical skills to bring characters to life.
More about Character Modeling jobs
What cities are hiring for Character Modeling jobs? Cities with the most Character Modeling job openings:
What states have the most Character Modeling jobs? States with the most job openings for Character Modeling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Character Modeling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Character Modeling jobs are:
Character Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Modeling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

Side

Remote

$123K - $130K/yr

Contractor

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

About Side
Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative solutions to many of the largest developers and studios around the world. Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has since grown to become a global force with 15+ studios in over a dozen countries across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia.
Our industry-leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization, localization QA, player support, community management, and datasets.
About This Opportunity
Please note, this listing is not for an immediate open position but for our Talent Pool for Co-Development Roles. By applying, you express interest in being considered for future project-based opportunities that align with your skills and experience.
These opportunities are contingent on client needs and project availability. As projects are initiated or client proposals are developed, we will review candidates from this pool and contact those who most closely align with the specific requirements of the co-development opportunity.
As a 3D Character Artist, you will play a key role in crafting high-quality characters that bring life and personality to our projects. This mid-level generalist role focuses on modeling, texturing, and optimizing character assets across a variety of styles for AAA-quality games on PC, console, mobile, and VR/AR platforms.
How We Keep You Engaged
We maintain strong relationships with our talent pool by providing regular updates, industry insights, and information on upcoming opportunities. We will check in to confirm your availability and interest.
Our hiring teams carefully vet and select top candidates who best meet project needs, ensuring that you are matched with the right opportunity when it becomes available.
Next Steps
If you are passionate about contributing to cutting-edge projects and want to be considered for future co-development opportunities, we encourage you to apply to this listing. While there may not be an immediate opening, your application ensures that you will be part of our ongoing talent review for upcoming roles.
Key Responsibilities
  • Create high-quality 3D character assets, including organic and hard surface elements, from concept to final game-ready models.
  • Collaborate with art leads, designers, and animators to ensure characters align with the project's artistic vision and technical requirements.
  • Develop textures and materials using industry-standard tools, ensuring assets are optimized for performance across platforms.
  • Work within established pipelines and workflows to maintain consistency and efficiency in asset creation.
  • Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay requirements.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to character development.
  • Actively participate in team critiques, offering and receiving feedback to refine assets.

Requirements
Experience:
    • 3+ years of experience as a Character Artist in the video game industry.
    • Demonstrated contribution to at least one shipped title on PC, console, mobile, or VR/AR.

Technical Skills:
    • Proficiency with ZBrush, Maya, 3ds Max, Substance Painter, Photoshop, and other industry-standard tools.
    • Strong understanding of anatomy, proportion, weight, and volume as they relate to character design and animation.
    • Experience with high- and low-poly modeling, texturing, and shading techniques.
    • Knowledge of proper topology, rigging, and skinning practices.

Artistic Skills:
    • Strong eye for detail, form, and style consistency.
    • Ability to adapt to and create a range of visual styles, from realistic to stylized.

Collaboration Skills:
    • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
    • Ability to incorporate feedback and iterate effectively.

Passion for Gaming: Genuine enthusiasm for creating compelling characters and contributing to immersive game worlds.
Preferred Skills
  • Familiarity with Marvelous Designer for clothing design and simulation.
  • Experience with photogrammetry and procedural workflows.
  • Knowledge of Unreal Engine or Unity for integrating character assets into the game.

Note: Specific requirements may vary depending on project needs.

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