Animation Contract Remote

3D Character Artist

3D Character Artist at Side

Job Overview

Side is building a talent pool for future Co-Development opportunities for a skilled 3D Character Artist. This mid-level generalist role focuses on modeling, texturing, and optimizing high-quality character assets for AAA-quality games across PC, console, mobile, and VR/AR platforms.

Please note that this is not an immediate opening. Candidates will be contacted when suitable project-based opportunities arise.

Key Responsibilities

Create high-quality 3D character assets, including organic and hard surface elements, from concept to final game-ready models.
Collaborate with art leads, designers, and animators to align characters with artistic vision and technical requirements.
Develop textures and materials using industry-standard tools while optimizing assets for performance across platforms.
Work within established pipelines and workflows to maintain consistency and efficiency.
Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for animation and gameplay needs.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges in character development.
Participate in team critiques and iterate based on feedback.

Qualifications

3+ years of experience as a Character Artist in the video game industry.
Contributed to at least one shipped title on PC, console, mobile, or VR/AR.
Proficiency with ZBrush, Maya, 3ds Max, Substance Painter, Photoshop, and other industry-standard tools.
Strong understanding of anatomy, proportion, weight, and volume in character design.
Experience with high- and low-poly modeling, texturing, and shading techniques.
Knowledge of topology, rigging, and skinning best practices.
Strong eye for detail, form, and style consistency.
Ability to create and adapt to realistic and stylized visual styles.
Excellent communication, teamwork, and feedback incorporation skills.
Passion for gaming and immersive character creation.