ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Environment Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Insomniac Games

VFX Artist (CONTRACT)

$75 - $90/hr

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 ...

Retro Studios

Concept Artist [Contract]

Austin, TX

$125.90K - $144.70K/yr

Collaborate with the Art Director, Artists, and Designers to define the look of our games by ... Produce boss, character, environment, and prop concept art in the form of thumbnails, sketches ...

Nintendo

Concept Artist [Contract] (Retro Studios)

Austin, TX · On-site

$125.90K - $144.70K/yr

THIS IS AN ONSITE CONTRACT POSITION - Austin, TX Position includes: * Paid weekly * Health care ... Produce boss, character, environment, and prop concept art in the form of thumbnails, sketches ...

The Lash Lounge

Permanent Makeup Artist on Contract

TX · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Maintain a clean and sterile work environment * Stay updated on the latest techniques and trends in ... Excellent artistic skills and color theory knowledge * Strong attention to detail and commitment to ...

AEG Presents

Contract Administrator

Los Angeles, CA

... on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations. If you ... Review and edit artist(s) contracts including issuing, mark-up, receipt and processing. Collect all ...

AEG Worldwide

Contract Administrator

Los Angeles, CA

... on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations. If you ... Review and edit artist(s) contracts including issuing, mark-up, receipt and processing. Collect all ...

AEG Worldwide

Contract Administrator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations. If you ... Review and edit artist(s) contracts including issuing, mark-up, receipt and processing. Collect all ...

AEG

Contract Administrator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... on the environment by adopting sustainable practices throughout our business operations. If you ... Review and edit artist(s) contracts including issuing, mark-up, receipt and processing. Collect all ...

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 29, 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.
VFX Artist (CONTRACT)

VFX Artist (CONTRACT)

Insomniac Games

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

VFX Artist - 12 Month CONTRACT

Insomniac Games is looking for a VFX Artist. In this role, the VFX Artist is responsible for creating VFX to work and assist in gameplay, environment, and cinematics of games.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Creates, designs, and implements real-time particle effects using both static and animating 2D/3D elements.

  • Placing of visual FX across all areas of the game, including environmental and gameplay FX, and cinematics.

  • Create FX textures (color, normal, specular, ambient occlusion, height, and incandescent maps.)

  • Possesses at least an intermediate ability to navigate and use DCC software such as Maya, Houdini, or equivalent.

  • Creates FX shaders with node-based shader networks.

  • Creates simple geometry and UV sets.

  • Possesses an intermediate foundation in computer graphics fundamentals and artistic analysis

  • Optimizes FX for framerate and memory.

  • Collaborates with other development departments to ensure that FX are implemented appropriately in the game engine.

  • Understands and adds to the overall art style of game.

  • Orchestrates FX events involving layering and timing of different FX to create a believable scene.

  • Work with external partners, including the creation of outsourcing briefs, best practice documentation, and
    packages to send to external art vendors.

  • Demonstrated professionalism in attendance, communication, reading comprehension, receiving feedback and working in a production setting.

  • Other duties may be assigned

Experience and Education

Five plus years of professional experience or training, or an equivalent amount of education and experience.                     

Computer Skills:

  • Proficient in Maya and Houdini, competent working with joints and locators, keyframing, rigid body simulations, and UV mapping.

  • Proficient in Photoshop for painting and editing textures.

  • Proficient with node- based shader networks. Knowledge of other visual effects software and game engines are a plus.

  • Experience learning and using proprietary toolsets to create Real Time FX is a plus.

Other Skills:

  • Good team skills, collaborative attitude, and good observation skills and ability to use reference materials.

  • Ability to work independently.

  • Proficient Animation and timing skills.

  • Solid traditional arts background a plus.

Apply