3D Character Artist - Talent Pool (N Americas)

Side

Job Overview

Location

Remote

Employment Type

Contract

Work Arrangement

Remote

Sector

Information Technology & Software

Experience Level

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Application Deadline

May 3, 2026

About the Company

Side is a leading global provider of technical and creative solutions for the video game industry. With roots tracing back to 1994 in Japan, Side has evolved into a significant international player, boasting over 40 studios across 15 countries worldwide. Their extensive network spans North America, Europe, South America, and Asia.

The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including game development, art production, localization, audio production, quality assurance, localization QA, player support, community management, and the creation of datasets. Side is dedicated to bringing compelling stories to the world through its global team of passionate gaming professionals.

Job Description

Side is a premier global provider of technical and creative solutions for the video game industry, partnering with leading developers worldwide.

This listing is for our Talent Pool, designed to identify skilled 3D Character Artists for future project-based opportunities. By applying, you express your interest in being considered for upcoming co-development roles that align with your expertise.

As a 3D Character Artist, you will be instrumental in creating high-quality, engaging characters for AAA games across PC, console, mobile, and VR/AR platforms. This mid-level role encompasses modeling, texturing, and optimizing character assets to meet artistic and technical specifications.

We maintain active engagement with our talent pool, providing updates on industry trends and potential opportunities. Successful candidates will be contacted directly when a project aligns with their profile.

To apply for this role, click the Apply button on this page and follow the instructions.

Required Skills

ZBrushMaya3ds MaxSubstance PainterPhotoshopAnatomyTopologyRiggingSkinningHigh-poly modelingLow-poly modelingTexturingShadingCharacter DesignGame Development

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 ensure characters align with the project’s artistic vision and technical requirements.
  • Develop textures and materials using industry-standard tools, ensuring assets are optimized for performance across platforms.
  • Work within established pipelines and workflows to maintain consistency and efficiency in asset creation.
  • Ensure proper topology, rigging, and skinning for characters to meet animation and gameplay requirements.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to character development.
  • Actively participate in team critiques, offering and receiving feedback to refine assets.

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience as a Character Artist in the video game industry.
  • Demonstrated contribution 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 as they relate to character design and animation.
  • Experience with high- and low-poly modeling, texturing, and shading techniques.
  • Knowledge of proper topology, rigging, and skinning practices.
  • Strong eye for detail, form, and style consistency.
  • Ability to adapt to and create a range of visual styles, from realistic to stylized.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to incorporate feedback and iterate effectively.
  • Genuine enthusiasm for creating compelling characters and contributing to immersive game worlds.

How to Apply

The video game industry in North America is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by demand for immersive digital experiences. This talent pool seeks a 3D Character Artist to contribute to AAA titles, focusing on modeling, texturing, and optimization. Key technical skills include ZBrush, Maya, Substance Painter, and understanding of anatomy and topology. The role's impact is measured by the quality and performance of character assets, directly influencing player engagement and project success. This position is crucial for bringing visually compelling characters to life across PC, console, and mobile platforms, driving player immersion and contributing to the overall artistic vision of game projects.

Posted Date

April 17, 2026