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Contractual 3D Technical Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Technical Artist (Mid - Senior)

Seattle, WA · Remote

$130K - $155K/yr

Develop advanced, optimized materials via node graphs using 3D/vector math. Create stunning real ... Job Details * Job Title: Technical Artist * Reports to: Studio Art & Animation Director

Technical Artist

$130K - $155K/yr

Basic knowledge or hands-on experience with 3D assets and workflows Responsibilities * Implement ... Work closely with artists and developers to integrate visual content into the game * Help optimize ...

Technical Artist

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

## Technical ArtistApplylocations: Cincinnati, OHposted on: Posted 30+ Days Agojob requisition id: R ... A solid foundation and experience in 3D work is absolutely essential. We are looking for an artist ...

New

Technical Artist

Cincinnati, OH

$121K - $145K/yr

A solid foundation and experience in 3D work is absolutely essential. We are looking for an artist ... Maintain documentation of technical and workflow problems and solutions. * Build and manage a ...

Technical Artist

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$121K - $145K/yr

A solid foundation and experience in 3D work is absolutely essential. We are looking for an artist ... Maintain documentation of technical and workflow problems and solutions. * Build and manage a ...

Technical Artist (Mid - Senior)

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$144K - $173K/yr

Develop advanced, optimized materials via node graphs using 3D/vector math. Create stunning real ... Job Details * Job Title: Technical Artist * Reports to: Studio Art & Animation Director

Senior Technical Artist

Austin, TX · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

The Senior Technical Artist acts as a resource within the art team, mentoring other artists in the ... Working knowledge of MS Office* 3D experience**Level Requirements:*** Portfolio (website or blog ...

Senior Technical Artist

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$110 - $130/hr

Integrate assets into games without sacrificing artistic vision or exceeding technical limits of ... Iterate on Unity 3D scene implementation to finalize product and other creative requirements.

Technical Artist III

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$116K - $139K/yr

Blending artistic and technical abilities, this role bridges the Art and Software teams, enabling ... Knowledge of 3D fundamentals: modeling, texturing/shading, rigging, animation, lighting, rendering.

Technical Artist III

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Blending artistic and technical abilities, this role bridges the Art and Software teams, enabling ... Knowledge of 3D fundamentals: modeling, texturing/shading, rigging, animation, lighting, rendering.

Versatile 3D Modeling: Model a broad range of assets, from characters and vehicles to props and ... Work closely with Art Directors, Technical Artists, and Game Designers to maintain consistency in ...

We're looking for a talented 3D Artist with experience creating high-quality real-time assets for ... technical artists, and engineers throughout development. Nice to Have * Experience developing ...

Senior Technical Artist

Cary, NC · On-site

$117K - $140K/yr

What You'll Do Epic is looking for a Technical Artist with a strong focus on material creation to ... and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal ...

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$30 - $45/hr

Versatile 3D Modeling: Model a broad range of assets, from characters and vehicles to props and ... Work closely with Art Directors, Technical Artists, and Game Designers to maintain consistency in ...

Showing results 21-40

Contractual 3D Technical Artist information

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$95.5K

$138.7K

$153.5K

How much do contractual 3d technical artist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual 3d technical artist in the United States is $138,713.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,000.00 and $152,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contractual 3D technical artist?

Contractual 3D Technical Artists are professionals hired on a contract basis to create, optimize, and implement 3D assets for games, films, or other digital media. They blend artistic skills with technical expertise, often working closely with developers and designers to ensure assets function correctly within a project's technical constraints. Their responsibilities may include modeling, texturing, rigging, and troubleshooting asset issues, all while adhering to the project’s timelines and quality standards. Contractual roles typically offer flexibility but may lack the benefits of full-time employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractual 3D technical artist?

To thrive as a Contractual 3D Technical Artist, you need strong 3D modeling, texturing, and rigging skills, often supported by a degree in art, design, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Autodesk Maya, Blender, Substance Painter, and familiarity with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine is typically expected. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and time management abilities help you collaborate effectively and meet project deadlines. These skills are essential to create high-quality, optimized assets that enhance visual experiences and support seamless production workflows.

What are the main challenges a contractual 3D technical artist might face when joining a new project mid-development?

Contractual 3D Technical Artists often join projects that are already underway, which can present challenges such as quickly adapting to existing workflows, understanding the project's art direction, and integrating with established pipelines. There may be a steep learning curve to become familiar with proprietary tools, naming conventions, and asset management systems. Effective communication with both artists and developers is essential to ensure seamless integration of assets and to address any technical issues that arise. Being proactive and adaptable will help you contribute efficiently and make a positive impact within the project’s timeline.

What cities are hiring for Contractual 3D Technical Artist jobs?

Cities with the most Contractual 3D Technical Artist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Technical Artist jobs?

The most popular types of 3D Technical Artist jobs are:

What states have the most Contractual 3D Technical Artist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contractual 3D Technical Artist jobs include:

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


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Job description


The 3D Environmental Artist is an entry-to-mid-level technical artist responsible for supporting the development, modification, and maintenance of airport Visual Databases (VDBs). Working under the direction of a senior VDB Developer, this individual creates and refines 3D assets, terrain features, airport infrastructure, environmental elements, and supporting visual content that contribute to realistic, operationally accurate airport environments.
This position focuses on implementing the senior VDB Developer's vision by constructing detailed airport environments, creating high-quality 3D assets, and ensuring visual fidelity while meeting real-time simulation performance requirements.
Key Responsibilities
3D Asset Development:
  • Create and modify 3D models for airport terminals, control towers, hangars, buildings, signage, lighting, fencing, vehicles, and surrounding infrastructure.
  • Produce optimized assets suitable for real-time simulation while maintaining high visual quality.
  • Create and apply textures, materials, and lighting using modern PBR workflows.
  • Develop reusable asset libraries for common airport structures and environmental objects.

Airport Environment Construction:
  • Assemble airport environments from source imagery, engineering drawings, GIS data, and reference photography.
  • Place and align airport objects according to the design guidance provided by senior VDB Developers.
  • Build terrain features, roadways, parking areas, vegetation, and surrounding landmarks.
  • Implement runway markings, taxiway signage, lighting systems, and airport infrastructure.
  • Support development of airport environments for all designated FAA Air Traffic Control Towers (ATCTs).

Visual Refinement & Optimization:
  • Improve visual quality through texture refinement, lighting adjustments, and asset optimization.
  • Support development of environmental effects including day/night operations, seasonal conditions, and weather visualization.
  • Assist with animation of environmental objects and airport assets where required.
  • Optimize models to maintain required simulation performance.

Quality Assurance Support:
  • Verify models for proper scale, placement, texture mapping, and rendering performance.
  • Correct visual defects identified during QA reviews.
  • Participate in iterative design reviews with senior developers and subject matter experts.
  • Ensure all assets comply with established modeling, naming, and performance standards.

Repository & Configuration Support:
  • Maintain models, textures, and supporting files within the program configuration management system.
  • Follow version control procedures for all visual assets.
  • Package assets for integration into the Visual Database.
  • Maintain organized project documentation and asset libraries.

Collaboration:
  • Work closely with senior VDB Developers, Scenario Developers, Systems Engineers, and software developers.
  • Participate in Agile sprint planning, backlog refinement, and design reviews.
  • Support rapid implementation of airport modifications and visual updates.

Qualifications
Required Education:
  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's degree in one of the following fields:
    • Computer Graphics
    • Game Art
    • Digital Media
    • Animation
    • Visual Effects (VFX)
    • Environmental Design
    • Architecture
    • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
    • A related technical or artistic discipline
  • An Associate's degree, technical certification, portfolio, or equivalent practical experience may be considered in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.

Required Experience:
  • Professional experience is preferred but not required. Ideal candidates will demonstrate knowledge, coursework, internships, or personal project work in one or more of the following areas:
    • 3D modeling, rendering, or environment creation for games, simulation, visualization, or digital media.
    • Modern 3D modeling software such as Blender, Autodesk 3ds Max, Maya, or equivalent
    • Creation of optimized assets for real-time rendering
    • Physically Based Rendering (PBR) materials and texturing workflows
    • Interpretation of aerial imagery, engineering drawings, or reference photography
    • Basic understanding of version control systems
  • A strong portfolio demonstrating technical ability and artistic quality may be considered in lieu of professional experience.

Required Clearance:
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.

Preferred Experience:
  • Flight simulation scenery development (Microsoft Flight Simulator, X-Plane, Prepar3D, DCS, etc.)
  • Airport scenery creation or aviation-related environments
  • Unreal Engine or Unity
  • GIS data processing and terrain development
  • OpenFlight or Common Database (CDB/OpenCDB)
  • Familiarity with FAA airport diagrams and aviation charting
  • Experience working in Agile software development environments

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Proficiency with 3D modeling and texturing tools such as Blender, Autodesk 3ds Max, Maya, or equivalent
  • Understanding of real-time rendering and performance optimization techniques
  • Ability to accurately implement designs and direction provided by senior VDB Developers
  • Strong artistic eye for detail, scale, lighting, and environmental realism
  • Ability to rapidly incorporate review feedback and iterate on designs
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Collaborative team player capable of working across multidisciplinary teams including VDB Developers, Scenario Developers, Systems Engineers, and software developers

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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