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Visual Development Artist Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Hardsuit Labs

Technical Artist (Mid - Senior)

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$144K - $173K/yr

Visual Development & Shaders: Develop advanced, optimized materials via node graphs using 3D/vector ... Artistic Foundation: Strong understanding of lighting, color theory, composition, visual balance ...

Hardsuit Labs

Technical Artist (Mid - Senior)

Seattle, WA · Remote

$130K - $155K/yr

Visual Development & Shaders: Develop advanced, optimized materials via node graphs using 3D/vector ... Artistic Foundation: Strong understanding of lighting, color theory, composition, visual balance ...

PUBG Seattle

Senior Environment Artist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$143K - $171K/yr

We are at the heart of a vibrant game development scene, surrounded by top-tier studios and ... We pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of creativity, storytelling, and visual artistry. Our ...

PUBG Seattle

Senior Environment Artist

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$143K - $171K/yr

We are at the heart of a vibrant game development scene, surrounded by top-tier studios and ... We pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of creativity, storytelling, and visual artistry. Our ...

Stone Kite

Staff Environment Artist

Seattle, WA · Remote

$150K - $170K/yr

... development environment. This role involves a high degree of creative autonomy. You will be ... Collaborate closely with art direction to establish the game's visual identity * Develop scalable ...

Stone Kite

Staff Environment Artist

Seattle, WA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

... development environment. This role involves a high degree of creative autonomy. You will be ... Collaborate closely with art direction to establish the game's visual identity * Develop scalable ...

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All JobsVisual Development Artist JobsVisual Development Artist Jobs in Seattle, WA

Visual Development Artist information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$41.6K

$122.8K

$173.6K

How much do visual development artist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for visual development artist in Seattle, WA is $122,780.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,800.00 and $173,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a visual development artist?

A Visual Development Artist creates the overall look and feel of a project by designing characters, environments, props, and color schemes. They work closely with directors and art teams in animation, film, and gaming to establish a cohesive visual style. Their work helps guide the production team in bringing the story to life. This role requires strong artistic skills, creativity, and knowledge of digital painting and design tools.

What does a visual development artist do?

As a Visual Development Artist, your day often begins by reviewing project briefs and collaborating with the art director or other team members to align on creative direction. You’ll spend a significant portion of your time sketching, painting, and revising environment designs, characters, or color scripts, either digitally or traditionally. Regular feedback sessions with the team are common, providing opportunities to iterate and improve your work. Throughout the day, you may also research visual references and ensure your designs are consistent with the project’s overall style and story. This mix of creative independent work and collaborative interaction is key to shaping the visual identity of the project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a visual development artist?

To thrive as a Visual Development Artist, you need strong skills in drawing, color theory, composition, and storytelling, often backed by a degree in art or a related field. Proficiency with digital painting tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Corel Painter, and knowledge of 3D software like Blender or Maya is typically required. Creativity, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills, helping you translate concepts into compelling visuals and collaborate with other team members. These abilities enable you to contribute high-quality visual assets that guide the look and feel of animation, film, or game projects.

How much do visual development artists make?

The average salary for a visual development artist ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level artists typically earn lower wages, while those with advanced skills in digital tools like Photoshop and Maya can command higher salaries.

What do you need to be a visual development artist?

A visual development artist typically needs strong artistic skills, including drawing, painting, and design, along with proficiency in digital tools such as Photoshop or SketchUp. A relevant portfolio demonstrating concept art and visual storytelling is essential, and a background in fine arts, illustration, or animation can be beneficial. Knowledge of industry workflows and collaboration with other creative teams is also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Visual Development Artist jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Visual Development Artist jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Visual Development Artist jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Visual Development Artist jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Visual Development Artist jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Visual Development Artist jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Visual Development Artist jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Visual Development Artist job openings:

Visual Development Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visual Development Artist job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 78% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,711 per year, or $59 per hour.

Concept Artist [206843] at Aquent Talent Redmond, WA

Shell Lubricants Hub Hamburg

Redmond, WA • On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Concept Artist [206843] at Aquent Talent – Redmond, WA.

Overview

We’re partnering with a leading game studio that is seeking a talented Concept Artist to breathe fresh life into an evolving experience. This is your chance to be at the heart of visual development, creating the foundational imagery that will define entire worlds and excite millions of players.

Responsibilities
  • Collaborate closely with the Art Director, Lead Concept Artist, and other artists to define the project’s visual identity, from broad stylistic vision to intricate individual elements.
  • Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the game’s universe and technological constraints.
  • Proactively seek and integrate feedback from the Art Director and relevant departments to refine visual concepts.
  • Produce precise orthographic (construction) drawings for environments, props, characters, vehicles, and weapons.
  • Support the Art Director, Lead Concept Artist, and Senior Concept Artists by providing studio feedback throughout production.
  • Actively participate in regular team meetings, contributing to a collaborative creative environment.
Impact & Contribution

Your artistic vision will be the blueprint for new game experiences, guiding 3D teams and external partners in bringing worlds to life. You will be a key contributor to the visual storytelling, ensuring consistency and innovation across all game assets.

Must-Have Qualifications
  • A compelling portfolio showcasing strong concept work, particularly with hard surface examples such as sci‑fi elements, vehicles, props, and crates (3D art is not applicable for this role).
  • A Bachelor’s degree or diploma with a strong emphasis on Art.
  • Experience shipping at least one AAA game title.
  • An outstanding grasp of human anatomy, animal anatomy, industrial design, and architectural design, complemented by strong traditional art fundamentals.
  • Exceptional mastery of either Photoshop or Painter.
  • Proven ability to work collaboratively, openly embracing direction and adapting to change.
  • Demonstrated experience in FPS (First-Person Shooter) and sci‑fi genres.
  • Strong draftsman skills and solid fundamentals in composition, lighting, and design.
Nice-to-Have Qualifications
  • Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Unreal and Blender.
Equal‑Opportunity Employer Statement

Aquent is an equal‑opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

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