Stylized 3D Character Artist

Job Description

Stylized 3D Character Artist (Contract)

Candlestick Games | Remote (Ontario, Canada)

Contract · Up to 40 hrs per week · 3 months with potential extension · $25-$30 CAD /hour

Candlestick Games is a boutique game studio based in Ontario, Canada. We craft handmade digital experiences that whisk players away into dream worlds waiting to be discovered. We're currently looking for a talented 3D character artist to join our team as a freelancer/contractor that's flexible up to full time hours.

Our current project is a highly gamified productivity tool set in a faerie realm.

What you'd be doing

• Building a modular base faerie character designed for customization — clean topology, sensible edge flow for deformation/animation, and a body/parts structure that supports swappable pieces
• Creating faerie inspired clothing and accessories that fit the modular system and read clearly in-engine based on provided 2D concept art
• UV layouts, texture sets, and stylized material work consistent with our established art direction
• Preparing assets for Unity URP: FBX export, correct scale/orientation, packed mask maps, sane naming and material setup
• Collaborating with our concept artist/art director, providing creative and technical input on how best to bring our faerie characters to life.
• Working with passionate, reliable people that are nice to you and pay invoices on time, every time.

What we're looking for

• A portfolio showing stylized 3D character work (please include wireframes or topology shots if you have them)
• Experience with modular or customizable character systems, or a clear sense of how you'd approach one
• Comfort with hand-painted or stylized texturing workflows (e.g. aesthetically similar to Palia or Disney Dreamlight Valley.)
• Ability to prepare and implement assets for Unity
• Reliable async communication and the ability to self-manage on a small team

Bonus points

• Rigging and skinning experience, especially for modular/swappable meshes
• Animation experience creating gentle idle type animations such as sitting, reading, painting etc.
• Shipped or in-progress stylized game credits

Logistics

• Remote, but we're looking for someone based in Ontario due to applicable tax credits
• Hours are flexible up to 40 hours per week, however based on project workload/timeline we expect a minimum of 20 hours per week would be required
• Start date: ASAP (August 2026)
• Expected duration: 3 months
• Duration may extend beyond the initial contract depending on fit and project needs

How to apply

Send a portfolio link and a note about your experience with modular characters to Laura@candlestickgames.ca. Please include your expected hourly rate, your availability (start date / hours per week desired), and whether rigging/animation is something you'd want to take on.

Applications reviewed on a rolling basis. We read everything and you'll hear from us regardless of the outcome.