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Tattoo Artist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Lead VFX Artist

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

The Lead VFX Artist will maintain consistency across the department providing direction and feedback, ensuring all team members understand their role in the department and know what is expected of ...

Lead Graphic Artist

Corona, CA

$131K - $156K/yr

The artist is responsible for modeling, shading, lighting, and 3D visuals in digital renderings. The artist creates renderings to be photo-realistic images and virtual walk throughs of our product.

New

Lead Graphic Artist

Corona, CA ยท On-site

$131K - $156K/yr

The artist is responsible for modeling, shading, lighting, and 3D visuals in digital renderings. The artist creates renderings to be photo-realistic images and virtual walk throughs of our product.

New

Layout Artist

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$20/hr

We are seeking a talented and detail-oriented Layout Artist to join our team in creating custom memorial headstone designs. This role blends artistry and precision to help honor loved ones through ...

Layout Artist

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$20/hr

Paid time off We are seeking a talented and detail-oriented Layout Artist to join our team in creating custom memorial headstone designs. This role blends artistry and precision to help honor loved ...

Layout Artist

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$20/hr

We are seeking a talented and detail-oriented Layout Artist to join our team in creating custom memorial headstone designs. This role blends artistry and precision to help honor loved ones through ...

The Graphic Production Artist will be responsible for adapting, resizing and producing high volumes of marketing collateral, advertising and brand promotional materials. Deliver consistent quality ...

Graphic Production Artist

Corona, CA ยท On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

The Graphic Production Artist will be responsible for adapting, resizing and producing high volumes of marketing collateral, advertising and brand promotional materials. Deliver consistent quality ...

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Tattoo Artist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$53

$198

How much do tattoo artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for tattoo artist in Riverside, CA is $53.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tattoo artist?

Tattoo artists are skilled professionals who use specialized equipment to create permanent designs and artwork on a person's skin by injecting ink into the dermal layer. They work closely with clients to design custom tattoos or replicate existing artwork, ensuring the client's vision is realized safely and artistically. Tattoo artists must follow strict hygiene and safety protocols, often including proper sterilization of tools and workspaces to prevent infection. Many tattoo artists work in licensed tattoo studios, and some may also offer services like piercing or tattoo removal. To become a tattoo artist, one typically completes an apprenticeship and must comply with local licensing requirements.

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

To thrive as a Tattoo Artist, you need artistic ability, a steady hand, attention to detail, and usually completion of an apprenticeship or formal training in tattooing and safety procedures. Familiarity with tattoo machines, sterilization equipment, and adherence to local health and safety regulations or certifications is crucial. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients help build trust and ensure client satisfaction. These skills and qualities are vital for creating high-quality, safe, and personalized tattoos while maintaining client safety and professional reputation.

What are some common challenges faced by tattoo artists when working with clients?

Tattoo artists often encounter challenges such as managing clients' expectations regarding design, size, and placement of tattoos. Effective communication is essential to ensure clients understand the limitations of certain designs on different skin types or body areas. Additionally, artists must handle varying pain tolerances and occasionally anxious clients while maintaining a sterile and safe environment. Building trust and providing clear aftercare instructions are also key aspects of delivering a positive experience.

What is the difference between Tattoo Artist vs Piercer?

AspectTattoo ArtistPiercer
CredentialsTypically requires apprenticeship, portfolio, and licensing where applicableRequires certification, training in sterilization, and licensing
Work EnvironmentTattoo studios, shops, or private studiosPiercing salons, tattoo shops, or specialized piercing studios
Industry UsageCommonly employed in tattoo parlors, art studiosFound in piercing studios, jewelry shops, tattoo shops
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare tattoo artists with piercers for body art servicesPeople look into piercers for body jewelry placement and piercing services

While both tattoo artists and piercers work in body modification, tattoo artists focus on creating permanent body art through ink, whereas piercers specialize in body jewelry placement through piercing. Both roles require certifications, sterilization knowledge, and work in similar environments, often within tattoo or piercing studios.

Do tattoo artists make good money?

Tattoo artists' earnings vary based on experience, location, and reputation, with many earning an hourly rate or commission from their work. Skilled artists with a strong portfolio and client base can earn a competitive income, often supplemented by tips. Income potential increases with specialization, certifications, and a steady client flow.

How much would a tattoo artist get paid?

Tattoo artists' earnings vary based on experience, location, and whether they work as employees or independent contractors. On average, they earn between $20,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced artists and those working in high-demand areas earning more. Many tattoo artists supplement income through tips and selling artwork or merchandise.

What other jobs can a tattoo artist do?

A tattoo artist can transition into related roles such as body piercer, tattoo shop manager, or art instructor, utilizing their skills in design, customer service, and hygiene. They may also work in graphic design, illustration, or branding, leveraging their artistic talents and knowledge of ink and skin. Certifications in health and safety can expand opportunities in the broader body modification or creative industries.

What are popular job titles related to Tattoo Artist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Tattoo Artist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tattoo Artist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Tattoo Artist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Tattoo Artist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Tattoo Artist job openings:

Infographic showing various Tattoo Artist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,482 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Lead VFX Artist

Turtle Rock Studios

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are looking for a Lead VFX Artist to be a part of our VFX team. The Lead VFX Artist will maintain consistency across the department providing direction and feedback, ensuring all team members understand their role in the department and know what is expected of them. The right candidate will look for opportunities to enhance the player experience, embrace and provide constructive feedback while guiding the creative process; driving VFX process for game effects. This position will report to the Creative Director.

Responsibilities
  • Lead the VFX team: maintain consistency across the department providing direction and feedback, ensuring all team members understand their role in the department and know what is expected of them
  • Lead team meetings and relay important studio information when required
  • Work closely with department manager to provide mentorship and coaching for VFX team members including but not limited to: 1:1s, career development, performance evaluations, and goal setting
  • Guide the creative process; drive the concept process for game effects
  • Bringย in-progressย and prototype effects to completion
  • Work with the Art Directors and art teams to ensure artistic unity across the game
  • Create real-time visual effects to enhance environments, characters, and combat
  • Work with designers, engineers, and other artists in creating strong moment-to-moment gameplay
  • Collaborate with other team members to ensure that assets fall within set parameters in regards to performance, best practices, and art style
  • Playtest with both the studio and the VFX team to review and iterate VFX
Requirements
  • 7+ years game experience in creating effectsย in game development with one or more shipped titles on multiple platforms
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in creating real-time effects
  • Self-driven, strong communication skills, and a positive attitude
  • Ability to problem-solve and prioritize issues while working with a team
  • Experience with creating compelling, real-time effects using Photoshop, Maya, and/or in-game effects systems
  • Knowledgeable of 3D graphics, particle systems, physics, etc.
  • Experience in UE5
  • Keen production sensibilities, ability to collaborate on timelines and communicate with Production and team members on task duration and prioritization
  • Ability to maintain high quality and consistent progress
  • Strong leadership, mentoring, and teaching skills
  • Strong ability to interpret and adapt to general and flexible direction.ย Can thrive in a highly collaborative, team-oriented environment
  • Proficient in Maya, 3ds Max, or Blender
Preferences
  • Shipped one or more major titles on current generation/PC platforms as a Senior VFX artist
  • Experience with AAA First Person action titles
  • Previous leadership experience preferred, or senior/principal role in games environments
  • Experience working with shaders and materials
  • Familiarity with asset tracking and issue tracking tools such as Perforce and JIRA
  • Passion for games
Benefits

Some of the benefits and perks our employees get to enjoy, include:

  • 100% Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage for you and your family
  • Retirement Savings Plan Matching
  • Career Improvement Plan
  • Flexible Work Arrangements - In-House, Hybrid, and Remote
  • Generous Time Off Policy
  • Company Events - In-Person + Virtual Events
  • Fully Stocked Kitchen + Sponsored Food Trucks

The estimated base pay range for this role is:ย  ย  $135,000 - $165,000 USD