Lead Character Artist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Netherlands, +2 more countries.

📋 Description

• Oversee the artistic direction of co-development projects from initial concept to final output.

• Convert concepts and key art into production-ready character and creature assets.

• Develop high-poly sculpts, game-ready models, UVs, and PBR textures.

• Produce key character assets that establish the team's quality and visual standards.

• Collaborate with client-side Art Directors and concept artists to realize visual direction.

• Recognize feasibility issues early and apply proactive problem-solving and artistic insight.

• Implement character assets in Unreal Engine, including materials, shaders, LODs, and configuration.

• Mentor and assist the character art team through reviews, feedback, and hands-on support.

• Work together with tech art, rigging, and animation to fulfill technical specifications and deformation requirements.

• Develop and sustain character art workflows, best practices, and documentation.

• Provide task estimates and progress reports to Production.

• Assist with character team recruitment, portfolio evaluations, and art assessments.

• Foster collaboration, innovation, growth, and positive change within the organization.

⛳️ Requirements

• Over 7 years of experience as a Character Artist in game development.

• Experience in a Lead or Senior position on released AAA titles.

• Exceptional portfolio showcasing realistic human anatomy and creature design.

• Strong understanding of form, proportion, and surface detail.

• Ability to transform a 2D concept into a complete, game-ready 3D asset.

• Proficient in ZBrush, Maya, Blender or 3ds Max, and Substance 3D Painter.

• Comprehensive knowledge of retopology, UVs, baking, PBR texturing, and performance optimization.

• Solid experience with implementing character assets in Unreal Engine.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to give and receive constructive criticism.

• Familiarity with Jira, Confluence, or similar project management tools.

• Adaptability across stylized or cartoon styles is advantageous.

• Capability to conceptualize and ideate through rough sculpting and 2D methods is a plus.

• Knowledge of clothing, hair, and scan-based workflows is beneficial.

• Must reside in an approved country for the relevant employment or freelancer contract.

🏝️ Benefits

• A competitive salary.

• Ample opportunities for personal development and ownership.

• Flexibility to work hybrid/onsite or entirely remote.

• Employment contract for residents of the Netherlands, Germany, or the UK.

• Freelancer contract available for those living in one of the approved countries.

• An inclusive and equitable work environment.

• Chance to contribute to significant, industry-leading projects.