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Freelance Substance Painter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Framestore

Freelance: CG - Chicago

Chicago, IL · On-site

If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing ... Maya, Houdini, Substance Designer, Substance Painter, Mari, and/or Photoshop * A working knowledge ...

Framestore

Freelance: CG - Los Angeles

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$600 - $900/day

If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing ... Maya, Houdini, Substance Designer, Substance Painter, Mari, and/or Photoshop * A working knowledge ...

Framestore

Freelance: CG - New York

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$600 - $900/day

If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing ... Maya, Houdini, Substance Designer, Substance Painter, Mari, and/or Photoshop * A working knowledge ...

Sawhorse Productions

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA

$30 - $45/hr

This freelance role is built for a well-rounded modeler who moves fluidly between realistic and ... Experience with Substance Painter or Designer for texture work * Familiarity with lighting ...

Sawhorse Productions

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$30 - $45/hr

This freelance role is built for a well-rounded modeler who moves fluidly between realistic and ... Experience with Substance Painter or Designer for texture work * Familiarity with lighting ...

Sawhorse Productions

Roblox 3D Artist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$30 - $45/hr

This freelance role is built for a well-rounded modeler who moves fluidly between realistic and ... Experience with Substance Painter or Designer for texture work * Familiarity with lighting ...

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Freelance Substance Painter information

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$9

$22

$68

How much do freelance substance painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance substance painter in the United States is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance substance painter?

A Freelance Substance Painter is a self-employed digital artist who specializes in using Substance Painter, a 3D texturing software, to create detailed and realistic materials and textures for 3D models. They typically work on a contract or project basis for clients in industries such as video games, animation, film, and product visualization. Freelance Substance Painters are responsible for preparing and painting textures, often collaborating with modelers and other artists to achieve high-quality visual results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance substance painter?

To thrive as a Freelance Substance Painter, you need strong 3D texturing skills, a solid understanding of material workflows, and experience with digital art fundamentals, often supported by a portfolio showcasing relevant work. Proficiency in Substance Painter software, familiarity with other tools like Photoshop or Maya, and knowledge of PBR (Physically Based Rendering) systems are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients help freelancers stand out. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality, visually appealing assets that meet industry standards and client expectations.

What are some common challenges freelance substance painters face when working with remote teams, and how can they overcome them?

Freelance Substance Painters often collaborate with remote teams, which can present challenges such as miscommunication about texture requirements or feedback delays due to time zone differences. To overcome these issues, it's important to establish clear communication channels, utilize project management tools, and set expectations for regular check-ins. Sharing detailed work-in-progress files and referencing style guides can also help ensure that the final textures align with the team's vision. Being proactive about clarifying feedback and deadlines helps maintain smooth workflows and build strong professional relationships.

What is the difference between Freelance Substance Painter vs 3D Modeler?

AspectFreelance Substance Painter3D Modeler
CredentialsKnowledge of texturing, software proficiencyKnowledge of modeling, software proficiency
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-basedRemote or studio, project-based
Industry UsageGame, film, VR industriesGame, film, product visualization

Freelance Substance Painter specialists focus on creating detailed textures and materials for 3D assets, often working remotely on specific projects. In contrast, 3D Modelers build the actual 3D objects and environments. While both roles require 3D software skills, Substance Painter emphasizes texturing, whereas Modelers focus on shape and structure. Understanding these differences helps clients find the right freelancer for their project needs.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Substance Painter jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Substance Painter job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Painter jobs?

The most popular types of Substance Painter jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Substance Painter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Substance Painter jobs include:

Freelance Substance Painter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Substance Painter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 32% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,772 per year, or $23 per hour.

Freelance: CG - Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Framestore
See more jobs at Framestoreexternal

Temporary

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Framestore Integrated Advertising are always on the look-out for exceptional talent to join our award winning team. If you are a freelancer who would be interested in being kept on our books for future freelancing opportunities with our team then please submit your details to us - we would love to hear from you!
Our freelance opportunities will always be live on the website and we will get in touch with people who have submitted their details as and when opportunities arise. There is no need to apply here more than once - once you're in then you're in and you will be on our radar! In fact, the people who submit here will be our first point of call when we're looking.
So if you want to freelance on some of the most exciting and challenging advertising work out there then you know what to do - hit that 'apply' button right now!
  • Excellent knowledge of any of the following pending specific discipline: Maya, Houdini, Substance Designer, Substance Painter, Mari, and/or Photoshop
  • A working knowledge of Arnold
  • High level ability to produce great looking imagery across a range of styles; from photo real CG composited against live action through to stylized fully CG work
  • A good understanding of animation and an eye for motion
  • Knowledge of cinematic language and technical terminology
  • Strong communication skills are critical. Must be able to work within a team, taking direction and exercising attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment
  • Must be self-motivated, a team player and organised
  • Able and willing to follow direction and openly collaborate with others
  • Ability to work well under pressure and open to working flexible hours
  • Adaptable and accepting of creative change throughout a project
  • Must have valid US work authorization.

Desired Skills:
  • A working knowledge of Mantra and VRay a plus.
  • A familiarity with scripting e.g. C++, python, hscript or mel
  • Experience with linux \ unix based operating systems
  • A working knowledge of at least one compositing application (e.g. Nuke) and a solid understanding of the compositing process
  • PfTrack or 3DEqualizer experience a plus

Apply