Location :
This is a part-time hybrid role (minimum 20 hours per week) with a combination of remote and onsite days in Ann Arbor, Michigan each week.
Who We Are :
The National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) is a cross-industry technology development consortium, dedicated to improving the competitiveness and strength of the U.S. industrial base. As a member-based organization, it leverages its network of industry, government, and academic partners to develop, demonstrate, and transition innovative technologies efficiently, with less risk and lower cost.
NCMS enables world-class member companies to work effectively with other members on new opportunities – bringing together highly capable companies with providers and end-users who need their innovations and technology solutions. NCMS members benefit from an accelerated progression of idea creation through execution.
Job Purpose :
The 3D Visual and Production Artist will contribute to designing, developing, and delivering high-fidelity 3D assets that support the strategic communication and technology objectives of NCMS. This position transforms complex CAD and technical data into visually accurate, real-time assets for AR / VR and interactive applications. The 3D Visual and Production Artist combines artistic skill with technical precision to ensure each deliverable meets performance, realism, and visual communications goals.
Primary Responsibilities :
- Support the creation of high-fidelity 3D models, textures, and renders with a focus on hard-surface assets such as vehicles and products.
- Optimize 3D assets for performance and visual quality in AR / VR and real-time environments.
- Translate CAD and engineering data into efficient, visually accurate 3D representations.
- Develop production-ready assets for use within Unreal Engine, including XR framework, and other real-time rendering platforms.
- Support animation production and integration within 3D environments documenting production workflows, collaborating on pipeline improvements, and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to interpret design intent and align visual assets with technical requirements.
- Ensure deliverables meet established quality standards, visual accuracy, and optimization goals.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements :
Must be a citizen of the United States.Must have or be eligible to obtain a government security clearance.Must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 unless legally exempt.Flexibility to work a hybrid schedule; work is a mix of remote and onsite days each week.Strong foundation in 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering with a focus on hard-surface assets.Ability to optimize assets for AR / VR environments and real-time engines such as Unreal Engine, including XR framework.Proven experience creating production-ready assets for real-time visualization.Knowledge of design intent translation and the ability to interpret CAD or engineering data into accurate, efficient 3D models.Experience with animation production in 3D environments.Understanding of UX / UI integration and interaction design for AR / VR applications.Experience with asset creation, concept art, sketching, or storyboarding.Knowledge of motion and rigging for mechanical or vehicle components such as doors, hoods, or interior mechanisms.Familiarity with asset management processes and optimization workflows.Working knowledge of in 3D visualization tools including Blender, Autodesk Maya, 3ds Max, or Modo.Experience with CAD conversion tools such as Alias, Rhino, or Siemens NX.Experience working in real-time game engines such as Unreal Engine.Proficient in creating and applying textures and materials using Substance Painter, Substance Designer, and Adobe Photoshop.Working knowledge of AR / VR tools including Unreal XR framework.Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite.NCMS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Please include a link to a portfolio or reel with your application.