ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Environment Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amber Studio

3D Environment Artist At Amber, we're always on the hunt for the most talented individuals in the ... This is a remote, full-time contract, expected to start immediately and last for around three ...

New

Insomniac Games

OR

VFX Artist - 12 Month CONTRACT Insomniac Games is looking for a VFX Artist. In this role, the VFX ... Placing of visual FX across all areas of the game, including environmental and gameplay FX, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsContract Environment Artist Jobs

Contract Environment Artist information

See salary details

$9

$24

$40

How much do contract environment artist jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract environment artist in the United States is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Environment Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Environment Artist, you need a solid understanding of 3D modeling, texturing, and digital art principles, often supported by a degree in art or related field and a strong portfolio. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Substance Painter, and Unreal Engine or Unity is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you interpret briefs and collaborate effectively with other team members. These skills ensure the creation of immersive, visually appealing environments that meet project requirements and deadlines in a freelance or contract setting.

How do Contract Environment Artists typically collaborate with other team members during a game development project?

Contract Environment Artists often work closely with level designers, art directors, and technical artists to ensure that their creations align with the overall vision and technical constraints of the project. Communication is key, as they must frequently share progress updates, receive feedback, and implement revisions based on team input. While some work may be done remotely, regular meetings and use of collaborative tools like version control systems help ensure seamless integration of assets. Building positive relationships and being responsive to feedback can significantly enhance the effectiveness and satisfaction of both the artist and the team.

What is a Contract Environment Artist?

A Contract Environment Artist is a professional who creates digital environments and scenery for video games, films, or other visual media, working on a temporary or project-based contract. They are responsible for designing and building 3D models, textures, and lighting to bring immersive worlds to life. Unlike full-time employees, contract artists are hired for specific projects or timeframes, providing flexibility for both the artist and the employer. They often collaborate closely with other artists, designers, and developers to ensure the visual quality and consistency of environments. This role requires strong technical skills in industry-standard software and a keen artistic eye.

What is the difference between Contract Environment Artist vs Contract Character Artist?

AspectContract Environment ArtistContract Character Artist
Required SkillsEnvironment modeling, texturing, scene compositionCharacter modeling, rigging, texturing
Work EnvironmentGame studios, film, VR projectsGame studios, film, VR projects
Common CertificationsPortfolio, relevant software proficiency (Maya, ZBrush)Portfolio, relevant software proficiency (Maya, ZBrush)

Both roles are specialized in digital art creation within the entertainment industry, often working in similar environments and requiring comparable skills. The main difference lies in their focus: environment artists craft immersive worlds, while character artists develop detailed characters. Candidates should consider their strengths in scene versus character work when choosing between these roles.

More about Contract Environment Artist jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Environment Artist jobs? Cities with the most Contract Environment Artist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Environment Artist jobs? The most popular types of Environment Artist jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Environment Artist jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Environment Artist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Environment Artist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Environment Artist jobs are:
Contract Environment Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Environment Artist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,263 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
CONTRACT - Environment Artist III (NST)

CONTRACT - Environment Artist III (NST)

Nintendo of America Inc.

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

$43 - $64.10/hr

Other

Medical

Posted 5 days ago

Nintendo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 184 rated software companies

Job description

Nintendo Software Technology Corporation
Nintendo Software Technology Corporation, based in Redmond, Washington , is a wholly owned subsidiary of the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of video games, Nintendo Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan. Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may continually improve the quality of the games that we produce. Each person employed at Nintendo Software Technology Corporation is a valued team member and is encouraged to participate in our efforts to create the highest quality games.

Nintendo is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy and respect for each other.

Nintendo Software Technology is a tight-knit game development studio located in Redmond, WA. As part of the Nintendo family, we're passionate about creating games designed to surprise and delight our customers. We're always on the lookout for exceptional artist to help support our Art Department.

As an Environment Artist, you will have proven Zbrush and Substance Designer experience and a deep passion for stylized model and texture authoring for hard surface and organic subjects.If this sounds like you then we'd love to see your portfolio!

SUMMARY:

* An experienced contributor that participates and assists in creations of visual assets for digital entertainment products.
* Implement defined subset of visual asset tasks of assigned team or project

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

* Works directly with art leadership to help visualize and develop visual targets.
* Takes ownership of a specialized artistic area of a product's development.
* Creates visual assets for game development products that meet required direction and quality specifications.
* Creates illustrations, models, textures, environments, objects and animations for 3D and 2D visual assets.
* Supports the growth of new or enhanced art development tools and techniques.
* Utilizes and maintains proficient knowledge of required commercial and Nintendo proprietary art production tools.
* Implements game play features aligned to game design goals.
* Applies professional expertise to review, analyze and test products under development as a contributing member of a production team to ensure delivery of Nintendo's high standard of quality and timeliness.

SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS

* Minimum of 5 or more years of professional experience having shipped at least 1 game.
* Proven artistic and technical skills in basic 3D and or 2D art production.
* Experienced with game development pipelines and game engines (E.g. Unreal, Unity or a proprietary engine)
* Proven proficiency with commercial art production software (E.g. Photoshop, Maya, Zbrush, Substance Painter, etc).
* Capable of excellent organizational and communication skills.
* Can respond to feedback and iterations quickly and efficiently.
* Undergraduate degree in art or related field; or equivalent education and experience.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.

This contract position includes the base pay range listed below and is eligible for benefits through the employing agency. Agency benefits include eligibility for medical insurance, employee assistance program, and paid sick leave. All benefits are subject to elections, eligibility requirements, plan and program terms. Benefits offerings will be confirmed at the time of offer by the employing agency, and may differ depending on the employing agency partner.

Pay range:
$43—$64.10 USD

Apply