Intermediate / Senior 3D Artist (Contract)
We are seeking a talented Intermediate or Senior 3D Artist to join the development of WARBIRD, a World War II air combat simulation currently in early development. This role will focus on creating highly detailed aircraft assets for a prototype vertical slice set over the English Channel during the Battle of Britain.
This is a contract position supporting the development of this project is contingent on successful funding. The artist will play a key role in establishing the visual quality and production pipeline for the project’s aircraft and cockpit assets.
Project Overview
WARBIRD is a mid-simulation WWII combat game that focuses on realistic flight and damage models while remaining accessible to a broad audience. The initial prototype will showcase a small set of aircraft engaged in combat over a large-scale map centred on Dover.
The goal of this prototype is to produce a high-quality vertical slice demonstrating the core combat experience and visual identity of the project.
Responsibilities
- Create high-quality aircraft models based on historical reference material.
- Model detailed cockpit interiors suitable for first-person gameplay.
- Produce game-ready assets, including UVs, textures, and LODs.
- Work closely with the developers to ensure assets integrate smoothly into Unreal Engine.
- Contribute to damage states and material setups for aircraft.
- Help establish asset standards and pipelines for future content.
- Maintain a strong level of historical accuracy and visual authenticity.
Requirements
- Be based in New Zealand, with a right to work within New Zealand.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating high-quality hard surface modelling.
- Experience creating real-time game assets, ideally in shipped titles.
- Proficiency in industry-standard tools.
- Good understanding of PBR material workflows.
- Ability to work independently and deliver assets on schedule.
Nice to Have
- Experience working with Unreal Engine.
- Interest in aviation or historical military vehicles.
- Experience creating cockpit interiors or vehicle assets.
- Familiarity with LOD creation and optimisation.
Contract Details
This is a Contract role supporting a prototype development phase with the possiblity of further work after the prototype is complete. The contract will part-time or milestone-based over approximately 4–6 months begining in August 2026. The role will be fully remote with the development team based in Christchurch.
Contract start is subject to funding approval.
Rate dependent on experience, $40-$70 per hour, for an estimated 220 hours
About the Studio
We are a small, independent New Zealand game development studio focused on building immersive simulation experiences. Our current project explores the air combat of World War II with a focus on scale, authenticity, and player-driven scenarios.
How to Apply
Please send us:- Short introduction or cover letter and CV
- Portfolio or collection of relevant work