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Hard Surface Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hard Surface Crew Operator

Logan, WV · On-site

$19.75 - $25.25/hr

Who We Are Connecting People to Possibility As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What ...

Painter Hard Surfaces

Greenwood, IN · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

You might be the perfect Surface Experts Technician! Complete small repairs daily by applying your creativity and using problem-solving skills. A Day in the Life of a Surface Experts Technician: WE ...

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Hard Surface information

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$13

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$36

How much do hard surface jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for hard surface in the United States is $22.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by hard surface artists in a production environment?

Hard surface artists often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with technical requirements, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring models are optimized for performance across different platforms. Collaborating closely with other departments, like animation and texturing, is essential to ensure assets function seamlessly within the project pipeline. Staying up-to-date with the latest software tools and industry standards is also important, as workflows and expectations constantly evolve in this field.

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

To thrive as a Hard Surface Artist, you need strong 3D modeling skills, an understanding of form and materials, and typically a background in art, design, or a related field. Proficiency in software like Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, and texturing tools such as Substance Painter is essential. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the creation of high-quality, realistic assets that meet project specifications and contribute to visually compelling environments in games, films, or visualization projects.

How to make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Hard surface workers can increase earnings by gaining specialized skills, such as advanced finishing or installation techniques, and building a strong reputation. Working in high-demand areas, taking on larger projects, or starting a contracting business can also help reach higher income levels without a degree.

What is the difference between Hard Surface vs Tile Installer?

AspectHard SurfaceTile Installer
CredentialsMay include certifications in flooring or constructionOften requires specific tile installation certifications or training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsPrimarily indoor, working on floors, walls, and backsplashes
Industry UsageBroadly used in flooring, countertops, and surfacingSpecialized in tile and stone installation
Search/Comparison IntentGeneral flooring and surfacingSpecific to tile and stone work

Hard Surface workers encompass a wide range of flooring and surfacing projects, including tile, wood, and laminate. Tile Installers focus specifically on installing tiles and stones. While both roles share similar environments and credentials, Hard Surface workers have a broader scope, whereas Tile Installers specialize in tile work.

What are hard surface artists?

Hard surface artists are professionals in the digital art and 3D modeling industry who specialize in creating non-organic objects, such as vehicles, weapons, machinery, and architectural structures. Unlike character or organic modelers who focus on natural forms, hard surface artists use specialized techniques and software to design crisp, precise, and often mechanical models for video games, movies, and animation. Their work is crucial in bringing detailed, realistic, and functional-looking items to life in various digital projects.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in securing jobs like hard surface roles due to limited work experience, high competition, and evolving skill requirements such as proficiency with digital tools and safety protocols. Many employers also prioritize candidates with relevant certifications or apprenticeships, which can be less accessible to younger applicants.

How much does a sculptor get paid?

Sculptors, including those working on hard surfaces, typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled sculptors with specialized tools and certifications may earn higher wages, especially when working on large or commercial projects.

What professions make 500,000 a year?

Professions that can earn $500,000 or more annually include specialized roles such as orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate executives, and successful entrepreneurs. High earnings often require advanced education, significant experience, and in some cases, ownership of a business or high-level management positions.
Infographic showing various Hard Surface job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,007 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Hard Surface Crew Laborer

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Connecting People to Possibility
As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What sets us apart is our local agility, resources to scale, and comprehensive solutions for a dynamic energy market.

Whether in the field or providing essential behind the scenes support, Centuri offers professional growth opportunities where you can thrive and make a difference. Join a culture where safety, sustainability, and teamwork come first, with training and benefits that truly care for your well-being.

As a Hard Surface Gas Utility Laborer, you'll receive 1-4 weeks of paid training, equipping you with the essential skills to work safely and efficiently in the field - protecting yourself, your crew, and the community. You will be led by an experienced Foreman, working alongside skilled Equipment Operators and Pipe fitter, where you'll gain valuable hands-on experience and on-the-job training to build a strong foundation in the gas utility trade. 

This role provides the opportunity to developed specialized skills in areas such as excavating, trenching, shoring, and more!
 

  • Valid Driver's License, required
  • Prior asphalt or concrete experience preferred

Show us what you've got and in as little as 6 months, you could qualify for additional paid training to advance to the next level in your career. Take the first step today and unlock exciting opportunities for growth and success. Join us now and start building your future!

What You'll Do
  • Use hand tools to dig around existing utility structures to prevent damage
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Keep worksite clean and organized free from unnecessary hazards
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Strong desire to learn a new trade
What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training for technical skills
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit
Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record is preferred
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership 
Our Commitment to Opportunity

This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.  Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.

Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.