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Concept Hard Surface Artist - (Apex Legends)

Respawn Entertainment · Los Angeles, CA, USA ·

Pay:
$92,900-$129,200/yr
Job type:
Full Time

Hard Surface Concept Artist – Apex Legends
Electronic Arts creates next‑level entertainment experiences that inspire players and fans around the world. Our teams collaborate across the globe to bring creative ideas to life, and this role is a key part of that effort.

We are seeking a Concept Artist I to join the Apex Legends team. In this role, you will help create compelling visual designs that define the hard surface cosmetics and visual identity of Apex Legends. You will apply strong artistic fundamentals, design sensibilities, and storytelling skills to bring ideas to life while supporting both gameplay needs and the evolving aesthetic of a live‑service game.

You will work closely with the Hard Surface Concept Art Lead, Art Directors, and your immediate team to deliver high‑quality concept work while collaborating with external partners to maintain Apex Legends’ visual quality and style standards. The ideal candidate is a strong visual problem‑solver who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about creating bold, iconic designs.

Responsibilities

Collaborate closely with the Art Lead and team to create compelling concept art that supports gameplay, player fantasy, and the Apex Legends experience.

Design high‑quality hard surface cosmetics and assets that align with the game’s established visual language and style.

Apply a strong understanding of industrial design, weapon design, color theory, lighting, materials, and perspective in all concept work.

Translate creative direction into clear, production‑ready visual solutions that can be efficiently executed by downstream teams.

Create illustrations and visual storytelling pieces that communicate narrative intent and support world‑building through asset design.

Utilize 3D tools to support concept development, including block‑ins, lighting, camera set‑up, and perspective assistance.

Contribute to animation, FX, and cinematic ideation when needed, including basic storyboarding and motion exploration.

Participate actively in team critiques and feedback sessions, iterating quickly to improve quality and align with project goals.

Support external development efforts by reviewing outsourced work and providing actionable feedback to ensure consistency with Apex Legends’ quality and artistic standards.

Design within gameplay, technical, and production constraints, ensuring concepts are achievable and production‑friendly.

Stay informed on emerging tools, workflows, and production methodologies, helping improve efficiency and creative iteration across the team.

Contribute to team growth by sharing knowledge, workflows, and best practices with peers.

Experience supporting or mentoring junior artists is a plus.

Openness to learning and adopting new tools, workflows, and emerging technologies that improve efficiency and creative development.

Qualifications

3+ years of experience as a Concept Artist in games, entertainment, or a related industry.

A strong portfolio demonstrating exceptional artistic fundamentals—design, color, composition, lighting, materials, and perspective.

Proven ability to create clear, production‑ready concepts that effectively communicate design intent.

Strong understanding of hard surface design principles, including industrial and/or weapon design.

Proficiency with industry‑standard digital painting software and familiarity with 3D tools commonly used in concept workflows.

Understanding of visual storytelling, composition, cinematography, and player‑facing readability.

Strong collaboration and communication skills within a multidisciplinary team environment.

Ability to incorporate feedback quickly and iterate effectively in a fast‑paced production setting.

Pay Ranges – North America

British Columbia (varying by city) – $92,900 to $129,200 CAD

California (varying by city) – $104,400 to $157,400 USD

Benefits
In the U.S., the package includes paid time off (3 weeks per year to start), 80 hours of sick time, 16 paid company holidays, 10 weeks of paid time off for bonding with a new child, medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) with employer match. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.

In Canada, the package includes 3 weeks of vacation, 10 days of sick time, paid top‑up to EI/QPIP benefits up to 100% of base salary for maternity, paternity, and adoption leave (12 weeks for maternity, 4 weeks for parental/adoption leave), extended health/dental/vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and a retirement plan. Certain roles may be eligible for bonus and equity.

EEO Statement
Electronic Arts is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, religion, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, family status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EA also considers qualified applicants with criminal records in accordance with applicable law and provides workplace accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities as required by applicable law.

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