3D Character Modeler: Grooming & Hair Artist | Non-Profit Game Development

Employment Type: Volunteer / Unpaid Internship
About Us:
Pixel Games Studio is the game development branch of Boundless Gamers, a non-profit charity in the gaming community. Our mission is to create games that not only entertain but also spread awareness of mental health and highlight the positive impact gaming can have. What began as a simple podcast show has evolved into a larger effort to make a difference through meaningful game projects.
Please Note: At this time, we are only accepting applications for the specific role listed in this posting. If you are seeking a different position, we kindly ask that you refrain from applying for now. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to keep an eye out for future openings that align with your expertise. Thank you for understanding!
3D Character Grooming & Hair Artist
We are looking for a specialized 3D Character Grooming & Hair Artist to create high-quality, game-ready hair and fur assets for our project. This role involves designing, sculpting, grooming, and converting complex hair systems into optimized real-time polygonal assets based on concept art and design specifications, using tools like Blender. You will be responsible for ensuring that all character hair and grooming assets are optimized for performance within Unreal Engine 5.7, maintaining artistic consistency, and integrating them seamlessly into the game pipeline.
Qualifications:
Proven experience in character hair grooming and 3D modeling for video games (portfolio required).
Proven proficiency in converting high-poly hair curves, or grooming systems into game-optimized polygonal texture planes.
Strong knowledge of hair styling workflows, hair card placement, and creating believable organic flow for both human and creature hair/fur.
Ability to balance visual fidelity with strict polygon/triangle counts and texture memory budgets for real-time engines.
Proficiency in 3D grooming and modeling software such as Blender (preferred).
Strong skills in UV mapping, baking, and texturing hair shaders using tools like Substance Painter or Designer.
Solid understanding of PBR workflows and real-time hair rendering principles.
Ability to optimize model topology and density for performance in a real-time engine.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
Excellent communication and time management skills.
Experience with ZBrush, XGen, Ornatrix, or other advanced sculpting and grooming tools is a plus.
Strong understanding of facial anatomy and how hair styles complement character design and silhouette.
Ability to interpret 2D concept art and creatively solve design gaps for complex hairstyles.
Experience with Unreal Engine is a plus.
Work Style:
- Remote position with the flexibility to work during your spare free time.
- We understand that life can be busy, so we’re happy to accommodate your schedule while still ensuring progress is made on the project.
What You’ll Gain:
- Gain hands-on experience contributing to a video game currently in development, all while collaborating with a supportive and welcoming team.
- Projects to add to your professional portfolio.
- A chance to connect and grow with creatives and video game developers in the industry.
- An opportunity to make a difference by contributing to a charitable, game-focused mission.
Boundless Gamers / Pixel Games Studio is an equal-opportunity organization. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and identities.
Pixel Games Studio: www.pixelgamesstudio.org
Boundless Gamers Website: www.boundlessgamers.org

Work arrangement
Yes