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Character Modeling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Character Biosciences

Data Scientist I / II

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Contribute to the design and implementation of models and analyses to support Character Bio's drug discovery and development activities, which include quantitative biomarker and phenotype development ...

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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?

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$19

$37

How much do character modeling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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:
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Character Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Modeling job openings in the United States as of May 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.
Character Designer

Character Designer

Sony Pictures Animation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$59.16 - $72/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

The Character Designer is in charge of exploring all options when crafting the look, feel, personality, and appeal of a character. Working with the Director, Art Director, and other creative leads, you will explore multiple looks for each character to bring them to life. This is a union covered position.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Los Angeles, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with the creative lead throughout the pitch, design and production process to visually explore and discover the characters' look, feel, and personality.
  • Create multiple iterations of each character (including character poses, expressions and turnarounds) in rough pass form and approved final designs.
  • Propose design approaches that consider downstream departments (modeling and texturing).
  • Able to work independently and within a team environment.
  • Work closely with the Art Director to resolve design issues.
Qualifications:
  • Previous experience on an animated feature film, tv series, or game preferred.
  • Ability to articulate creative ideas.
  • Excellent draftsmanship.
  • Skilled in character pose, facial expressions and character turnarounds.
  • Outstanding research skills and an understanding of costume design.
  • Knowledge of anatomy and volumetric drawing.
  • We value inventiveness! Each Sony Pictures Animation project has its own distinctive and outstanding visual language so it is helpful to have stylistic versatility.
  • Photoshop knowledge required.

The anticipated base salary for this position is $59.16/hour to $72/hour. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement. The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors.

To apply, please include a resume and a link to your portfolio. Please make sure to include any passwords to your work in your cover letter and/or in your resume. 

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

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