3D Artist/Visualization

MESA Design Group seeks a 3D artist who will be responsible for crafting 3D models of environments (including topographic features and landforms), architectural visualization, lighting design, and concept renderings, while working closely with our design team. This role is ideal for someone who has a keen eye for layout and details, with great modeling and texturing skills, extensive expertise in environment design, modularity, and material creation. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for this position. We are located in downtown Dallas (Historic West End District) within a robust and growing development and design environment.

The application process typically includes a required Art Test / Assessment (i.e., practicum).

Prequalifications:

• Available for immediate in-person work in Dallas, Texas within an existing 3D studio.
• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in computer graphics and visualization, focusing on 3D hard surface modeling, concept rendering, or architectural visualization.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in an applicable field, including animation, game design, interior design, architectural design, etc.
• Proficiency modeling in one or more 3D programs (including SketchUp, 3Ds Max, Maya, Blender, Rhino, Cinema4D, or similar 3D software), including various plugins and extensions. Autodesk REVIT and SketchUp are mandatory.

Key Qualifications (preferred candidate will exhibit the following skills):

• Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering workflows, with a strong portfolio showcasing diverse renderings.
• Strong environmental composition skills.  Experience in interpreting site plans, ensuring accuracy of scale, and comprehending topographical features.
• Experience collaborating effectively with design teams and consultants throughout conceptual design stages.
• Experience in one or more lighting and rendering programs (including but not limited to Lumion, Unreal, V-Ray, and Autodesk Arnold).
• Familiarity with software tools, such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator Adobe Premiere and After Effects).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong self-motivation and client-focused approach.
• Proficiency in navigating a pipeline that encompasses various stages and employs multiple software applications.
• Analytical mindset with an innovative approach to solving issues.
• Ability to quickly learn and retain new software.
• Keen attention to detail.

Responsibilities / Job Duties:

• Work closely with project teams and leadership to develop 3D models and visualizations.
• Be open and receptive to feedback and execute necessary changes efficiently.
• Anticipate project needs and effectively communicate project progress.
• Maintain a clean workflow from high poly to textured and rendered assets, following production guidelines and standards to track tasks throughout the various stages of development for increased productivity.
• Create fly-through animations that showcase design and environment in cinematic way.
• Self-QA assigned tasks before completion.
• Conceptualize, present, and execute ideas within prescribed timeline while navigating technical constraints.
• Actively participate in collaborative settings, offering artistic, creative, and technical solutions for problem-solving throughout the design process.
• Implement, iterate, and review assets.
• Maintain a proactive approach to learning and implementing new techniques and technologies
• Develop and proliferate best practices for Autodesk REVIT asset generation, standards, and usage to design team members.
• Ability to coordinate with and augment existing Marketing Team.

Pluses:

• Traditional art skills, such as sculpting or drawing.
• Proficiency in Substance Designer and Painter.
• Knowledge of Photography and videography.
• Experience in architectural visualization, site design (parks, urban environments, large master planned developments, and high-end residential, etc.), product design visualization, 3D modeling, game design, VFX, illustration, etc.
• Create fly-through animations that showcase design and environment in cinematic way.  Including storyboarding/storytelling, choreographed sequences, audio sequencing, audio overdubbing, and graphic animation.

Benefits:

• MESA offers a full-time position with a half-day Friday schedule.
• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental plans.
• Employer-paid life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP).
• Competitive vacation, sick, and personal paid time off.
• 8 Paid Holidays per calendar year.
• Opportunities for professional growth within the office.
• Support for achieving personal career goals.  Including on and off-site training opportunities.

About MESA:

MESA Design Group is an award-winning Landscape Architecture, Planning, and Urban Design firm based in Dallas, Texas.  For over 40 years, we have enhanced public and private spaces and created opportunities for recreation, education, and community, both locally and internationally.  We are a practice firm specializing in master planned communities, parks, nature preserves, environmental education centers, mixed-use developments, urban living/multi-family housing, corporate campuses, and high-end residences. For more information about our projects and design philosophy, visit mesadesigngroup.com.

Application Instructions:

Please submit your resume, references (minimum of three), portfolio, and work sample containing a minimum of 10 computer-aided renderings that you have personally produced (multi-page PDF, less than 10MB) to careers@mesadesigngroup.com.  No phone responses or personal visits will be accepted.