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Material Artist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

If you're looking for a job that allows you to use your artistic skills daily, becoming a Surface ... Tools & Materials Provided - Everything you need is supplied * Learn a Unique Trade - Develop ...

... Arts proficiency levels. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt instruction to meet ...

Apprentice

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

If you're looking for a job that allows you to use your artistic skills daily, becoming a Surface ... Tools & Materials Provided - Everything you need is supplied * Learn a Unique Trade - Develop ...

Showing results 21-40

Material Artist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$29.6K

$125.9K

$148.2K

How much do material artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for material artist in Raleigh, NC is $125,917.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,400.00 and $147,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material artist?

A Material Artist is responsible for creating realistic and high-quality textures and materials for 3D assets in video games, films, or other digital media. They work with tools like Substance Designer, Substance Painter, and Photoshop to develop materials that enhance the visual fidelity of environments, characters, and objects. This role requires a strong understanding of surface detail, lighting, and physically based rendering (PBR) workflows. Material Artists collaborate closely with environment artists, lighting artists, and technical teams to ensure assets fit seamlessly within a project. Their work plays a critical role in achieving a polished, immersive final product.

What does a material artist do?

A material artist creates and applies textures, materials, and surface details to 3D models in digital environments, often using software like Substance Painter or Maya. They work closely with 3D modelers and animators to ensure realistic or stylized surface qualities for video games, films, or virtual reality projects.

What are typical collaboration and workflow processes for material artists within a game development or VFX team?

Material Artists often work closely with environment artists, modelers, lighting artists, and technical artists to ensure that textures and materials integrate seamlessly into a project. Their daily tasks may involve creating, testing, and refining textures, responding to feedback, and attending team meetings to discuss visual direction and technical requirements. Collaboration is key, as Material Artists frequently exchange assets and coordinate with other departments to optimize performance and achieve the desired visual fidelity. This team-driven environment encourages creativity and allows Material Artists to continually develop their skills by learning from other specialists.

How do you become a material artist?

To become a material artist, typically one needs a background in art, design, or related fields, along with skills in 3D modeling and texturing software such as Substance Painter or Quixel. Gaining experience through a portfolio, internships, or entry-level positions in game or film industries can also be important, along with understanding material properties and rendering techniques.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material artist, and why are they important?

To excel as a Material Artist, you need a solid background in 3D art, an understanding of texture creation, shading, and a strong artistic eye, usually supported by a degree in art, game design, or a related field. Expertise with tools like Substance Designer/Painter, Photoshop, and game engines such as Unreal or Unity is often essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help Material Artists collaborate efficiently within multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities ensure the creation of visually compelling and technically refined materials that elevate the overall quality of digital or interactive experiences.

What are popular job titles related to Material Artist jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Material Artist jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Artist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Material Artist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Material Artist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Material Artist job openings:
Infographic showing various Material Artist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 46% Full Time, and 46% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $125,917 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

Visual Arts Specialist - Advanced

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Department University Comms and Marketing-258000 Career Area Public Relations/Communications/Marketing Is this an internal only recruitment? No Posting Open Date 07/20/2026 Application Deadline 08/03/2026 Position Type Permanent Staff (SHRA) Position Title Visual Arts Specialist - Advanced Salary Grade Equivalent NC08 / GN11 Working Title Senior Graphic Designer and Production Manager Position Number 0062417 Vacancy ID P021208 Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited Full-Time Permanent If time-limited, estimated duration of appointment Hours per week 40 Work Schedule
Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm
Work Location CHAPEL HILL, NC Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range $60,000-$70,000 Pay Band Information
To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.
Notice to Applicants
Position Summary Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
University Communications and Marketing protects and advances Carolina's reputation as the nation's first and best public research university. In partnership with leaders and colleagues across campus, the team is responsible for developing and implementing an integrated strategy to share the impact of our university's teaching, research and service that improves our state, nation and world. Areas within University Communications and Marketing include Web Planning and Production, Internal Communications, Development Marketing, Executive Communications, Strategic Communications, Marketing, Social Media, Creative Services, and the UNC Visitors Center.
Position Summary
The Senior Graphic Designer & Production Manager is responsible for leading the creative development, design execution, and production management of print and digital marketing materials. This role combines high-level creative expertise with strong project management and production oversight to ensure all deliverables meet brand standards, deadlines, quality expectations, and budget requirements.
The ideal candidate is both a strategic thinker and hands-on designer who thrives in a fast-paced environment, manages multiple projects simultaneously, and collaborates effectively across departments, vendors, and stakeholders.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency and two years of visual/graphic arts experience related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Management Preferences
* Applicants should have computer skills on a Mac platform and be familiar with Adobe CC (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and Figma
* Demonstrated mastery of design principles through a portfolio of print or electronic products, including strong design, layout and typography skills.
* Experience managing print production processes, digital asset preparation, and vendor relationships.
* Thorough knowledge of the principles and methods of planning, designing and producing visually appealing products that communicate a clear message to target audiences.
* Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university, plus 5-7 years minimum experience.
Required Licenses/Certifications Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements Evening work occasionally, Weekend work occasionally Special Instructions
Please include portfolio samples or include a link to your online digital portfolio in the "Other Documents" upload.
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/322406
Contact Information
Office of Human Resources Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789