Lead 3D Character Artist

About the role

4A Games creatE is looking for an experienced Lead 3D Character Artist to oversee the creation of characters and monsters, from initial story design to final in-game assets. The role focuses on research and development, process improvement and raising the team's skills, and involves leading a group of in-house and external Character Artists while working closely with the Art Director, Lead Environment Artist, Animation Director and Game Designers.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a team of Character Artists, mentor them through guidance, feedback and creative training, and provide creative and technical direction.
• Work with the Art Director, Lead Environment Artist, Animation Director and Game Designers to align designs and assets with the game's vision.
• Research tech trends and help develop technology in the engine, setting quality and style goals.
• Review and interview candidates, appraise current employees and resolve performance and interpersonal issues.
• Work with Tech Artists, Programmers and Animators so characters perform perfectly in-game.
• Create high-poly models of characters and monsters, including clothes, body parts and accessories.
• Texture under a PBR pipeline and produce beauty shots for marketing.
• Import models into the engine, support other teams and improve the workflow.

Required profile

• At least 5 years of experience in AAA game development as a 3D Character Artist.
• At least one release AAA title in a Senior or Lead 3D Character Artist role.
• Upper-intermediate English.
• Ability to work creatively in a large or small group.

Required skills

• Sculpting, modeling and texturing.
• Extensive knowledge of sculpting, modeling, simulation, baking and texturing tools.
• Strong knowledge of PBR principles and deep understanding of animation requirements for low-poly models.
• Decent knowledge of a 3D game engine.
• Version control (SVN/Perforce) and bug trackers (Jira or similar).
• Preferred: animation experience, real-time hair grooming, scanned model preparation, scripting in Max/Maya, modular character systems, face creation techniques.