Lead 3D Artist (Hybrid Casual Mobile Games)

We are seeking a hands-on Lead 3D Artist to join a growing mobile games studio based in Hamburg. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of the visual strategy for a team that has never had a formal Art Lead, helping shape its direction while actively contributing to the production of games enjoyed by millions worldwide.

You’ll play a key role in guiding both internal and external artists while producing high-quality 3D assets for colourful, stylized hybrid-casual games.

In this role we are looking for somebody who can establish a strong artistic vision while contributing hands-on in game production.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and mentor a team of four internal 3D generalists (4 artists) and coordinate with freelance artists on a project basis.
  
• Own and define the art strategy and pipeline for existing and upcoming games.
  
• Create and optimize a wide range of assets (characters, environments, props, VFX, shaders, etc.).
  
• Ensure artistic consistency across multiple games: 4–5 live titles at any given time.
  
• Collaborate closely with producers, product owners, developers, and other stakeholders.
  
• Contribute hands-on to asset creation from day one (estimated 70% hands-on, 30% leadership initially).
  
• Support the studio’s transition from hyper-casual to hybrid-casual game development.
  

The first 6 months – focus areas

• Define team strategy: Establish the art direction and workflows, aligning with business needs as the first-ever Art Lead.
  

• Hands-on production: Create 3D assets (models, textures, shaders) from day one — approx. 70% of the role initially.
  

• Lead & mentor: Begin guiding a team of four 3D generalists; introduce structure and best practices (30% leadership).
  

• Support transition: Play a key role in the shift from hyper-casual to hybrid-casual game development.
  

Requirements

• Strong 3D generalist skills with a versatile portfolio (characters, environments, UI-related assets).
  

• Experience working on hyper-casual or hybrid-casual mobile games.
  

• At least 2–3 years of experience in a leadership or mentoring role, with a senior-level background in game art production.
  

• Expertise in Blender and familiarity with shaders, textures, lighting, and optimization for mobile platforms.
  

• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  

• Ability to relocate to Hamburg (support provided if not currently based there).
  

Recruitment Process

1. Introductory call with Talent Partner
   

2. Interview with Producer (Hiring Manager) and one team artist
   

3. Home art assignment
   

4. Assignment debrief with Product Owner & Development Lead
   

5. Final interview with Managing Director & Director of Games
   

Benefits

• Hybrid work setup (mandatory in-office: Mon, Tue, Thu)
  
• Full relocation package via agency (visa, flights, bonus, housing support)
  
• Opportunity to shape and lead an art team for a portfolio of successful mobile titles.