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Technical Artist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

This individual will need an eye for detail, artistic ability, and technical capacity to learn advanced software programs and vehicle configuration data and systems. This includes taking 3D data ...

This individual will need an eye for detail, artistic ability, and technical capacity to learn advanced software programs and vehicle configuration data and systems. This includes taking 3D data ...

A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, or BS in Industrial, Product, or Automotive Design ... Ability to work with a project team of Technical Engineers, clay sculptors and fabrication ...

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Technical Artist information

See Michigan salary details

$83.2K

$120.9K

$133.8K

How much do technical artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical artist in Michigan is $120,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,700.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a technical artist?

A Technical Artist is a professional who acts as a bridge between artists and programmers in the video game or digital content creation industries. They ensure that art assets can be easily integrated into a game engine without sacrificing either visual quality or performance. Technical Artists often create tools, optimize workflows, and solve technical problems related to graphics, shaders, and visual effects. Their role is crucial in streamlining the production pipeline and enabling both creative and technical teams to collaborate effectively.

What is a technical artist?

A technical artist works in the video game industry. In this career, you take the art created by the animation team and make sure that it runs within the technical parameters of the video game and hardware. You may develop or use special shading tools to make certain that the animation looks realistic in different settings within the game. The diverse duties of a technical artist require both creativity and technical skills.

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

To thrive as a Technical Artist, you need a blend of artistic ability, 3D modeling, and scripting skills, often supported by a degree in computer graphics, game design, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Maya, 3ds Max, Unreal Engine, Unity, and scripting languages like Python or MEL is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help Technical Artists bridge the gap between artists and programmers. These competencies ensure efficient workflows, high-quality visual assets, and smooth integration of art and technology in creative projects.

How do technical artists typically collaborate with both artists and engineers on a game development team?

Technical Artists act as a crucial bridge between the art and engineering teams. They translate artistic vision into technically feasible assets by optimizing models, creating efficient shaders, and developing tools that streamline workflows. Daily, they may troubleshoot asset integration issues, advise artists on best practices for performance, and work with engineers to ensure compatibility with the game engine. This collaborative approach ensures that visuals are both high-quality and optimized for real-time performance.

What is the difference between Technical Artist vs 3D Artist?

AspectTechnical Artist3D Artist
Required SkillsProgramming, scripting, shader development, technical problem-solvingModeling, texturing, sculpting, artistic creativity
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with artists and programmers in game/animation studiosFocuses on creating visual assets, often in art or game development teams
Common Industry UsageUsed in game development, animation, and VFX industriesPrimarily in game design, animation, and visual effects

The main difference between a Technical Artist and a 3D Artist lies in their focus areas. Technical Artists combine artistic skills with technical expertise to bridge the gap between art and programming, ensuring assets are optimized and functional. 3D Artists concentrate on creating high-quality visual assets through modeling and texturing. Both roles are essential in creative industries, but they serve different purposes within a project.

How much do technical artists earn?

Technical artists typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior technical artists with specialized skills in scripting, shading, and tools development tend to earn higher salaries, especially in large studios or tech hubs.

How to get a job as a technical artist?

To become a technical artist, develop strong skills in 3D modeling, scripting, and visual effects, and gain experience with industry tools like Maya, Houdini, or Unreal Engine. Building a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to bridge art and technology is essential, along with a solid understanding of programming languages such as Python or C++. Relevant education, such as a degree in computer graphics or a related field, and networking within the industry can also improve your chances of securing a position.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Artist jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Technical Artist jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Artist jobs in Michigan?

For Technical Artist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Technical Artist jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Technical Artist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Artist jobs in MI?

For Technical Artist jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Technical Artist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,902 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

CGI Artist

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

The CGI artist creates automotive visual assets at the direction of Stellantis and external Agencies for use in marketing. This individual will need an eye for detail, artistic ability, and technical capacity to learn advanced software programs and vehicle configuration data and systems. This includes taking 3D data models and creating imagery using programs such as Keyshot, Maya, and Photoshop, and compiling animations in Adobe After Effects. This role is also responsible for creating or editing backgrounds and supplemental graphics, as well as material shaders for the team material library. The role will require creative thinking and flexibility with task management.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Minimum of High School Diploma/GED
  • 3+ years Computer Generated Imagery design
  • Software requirements: Adobe Creative Suite, Maya, Keyshot, Photograph editing software packages, AI image generation
  • Good design skills that promote effective marketing and communication
  • Proven ability to effectively manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment
  • Demonstrate positive attitude, with challenges viewed as opportunities
  • Process oriented and understands the value of process consistency and compliance
  • Must be self-motivated, customer-driven team player, able to develop close customer relations to best understand requirements & meet tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Experience with Unreal Engine

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