3-D Character Modeler

Overview

We are seeking a skilled 3D Character Modeler to create charming holiday-themed characters for a major national retail campaign. This is a short-term contract opportunity working on a high-visibility project that will be featured across 1500+ retail locations nationwide.

Project Details

Duration: 2 weeks (mid-July timeline)
Employment Type: W-2 Contract through Aquent
Work Style: Remote/Freelance
Industry: Retail/Visual Merchandising

Key Responsibilities

• Model 7 distinctive holiday characters in Blender with stop-motion puppet aesthetic
• Create characters
• Develop complementary background scene elements
• Apply fabric-style textures to achieve authentic stop-motion look
• Deliver models optimized for both digital and print applications
• Participate in staged review process with stakeholder feedback incorporation

Technical Requirements

Software: Blender (required – client needs ability to make future internal adjustments)
Modeling Style: Animation-ready mesh preferred over 3D print mesh for future flexibility
Aesthetic: Stop-motion puppet style with fabric textures
Character Complexity: Cartoonish/simple shapes allowing for efficient 2-week production

Required Skills & Experience

• Intermediate proficiency in Blender (2-4 years experience)
• Strong character modeling portfolio, particularly stylized/cartoon characters
• Experience with fabric and textile texture application
• Understanding of stop-motion animation aesthetics
• Ability to work efficiently within tight deadlines
• Experience with commercial/retail project requirements
• Portfolio demonstrating versatility across different character types

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with holiday/seasonal campaign work
• Knowledge of print production requirements
• Familiarity with retail brand visual standards
• Experience working with multiple stakeholder review processes

Project Characteristics

• Fast-paced environment with potential for timeline adjustments
• Collaborative review process with multiple approval stages
• High-visibility deliverables for national retail deployment
• Creative flexibility while working within established brand guidelines
• Potential for scope expansion based on project success

Deliverables

• 7 fully textured 3D character models
• Background scene elements
• Models optimized for multiple output formats (digital/print)
• Files organized for potential future animation development
• Documentation for internal team handoff

Timeline

Week 1: Initial mesh modeling and first review cycle
Week 2: Texture application, refinements, and final approvals
Flexibility required for potential revision cycles and stakeholder feedback

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rates for mid-level talent
• Opportunity to work on high-profile national campaign
• W-2 employment benefits through Aquent
• Portfolio-worthy commercial work
• Potential for future project opportunities

Application Requirements

Please submit:

• Current portfolio showcasing character modeling work
• Blender project examples (preferred)
• Hourly rate expectations
• Availability for immediate start
• Brief description of relevant experience

The target hiring compensation range for this role is $40 to $60/HR DOE. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits! 
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.