3D Modeler/Artist
3D Modeler/Artist (Contract / Freelance)
Project: Blue Economy VR Experience
Duration: 6–12 weeks (Contract/Freelance)
Location: Canada Remote (Vancouver, BC preferred)
Aequilibrium (AEQ) is a digital consulting and innovation services firm focused on strategy, experience design, and technology. Through AEQ Innovate, we explore and build next-generation solutions using XR, AI, and immersive technologies to elevate employee training, onboarding, and human-centered experiences. We are embarking on an exciting project and looking for an experienced 3D Modeler/Artist to join us for a fixed term contract.
Role Overview
Aequilibrium is seeking a talented 3D Modeler/Artist to join us in developing a high-impact, standalone VR application for the Meta Quest 3. This project aims to promote sustainable ocean-sector careers to Indigenous participants through immersive, culturally respectful storytelling.
You will be responsible for creating, optimizing, and integrating high-fidelity 3D assets and environments that reflect realistic marine settings—ranging from coastal territories to underwater landscapes. A critical component of this role is collaborating with cultural guides to ensure all visual elements respect Indigenous protocols and represent specific territories accurately.
Key Responsibilities
- Environment Design: Develop 3-6 customized 360-degree 3D environments aligned with specific marine career paths (e.g., Coastal Monitoring, Conservation, and Remote Sensing).
- 3D Asset Creation: Model 3D props and environmental features (e.g., specialized marine equipment, coastal vegetation) optimized for mobile VR performance on Meta Quest 3.
- Character Art: (As required) Develop realistic 3D character models for NPCs, including support for audio and lip-syncing.
- Cultural Integration: Work closely with our product team and cultural advisors to incorporate Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and specific regional aesthetics into the visual experience.
- Technical Optimization: Implement workflows to ensure high visual fidelity while maintaining the performance standards required for a smooth 360-degree VR experience.
Required Skills & Qualifications
- VR Expertise: Proven experience in 3D modeling and environment art specifically for VR (Meta Quest pipeline preferred).
- Software Proficiency: Expert knowledge of 3D modeling software (e.g., Blender, Maya, ZBrush) and integration within the Unity engine.
- Artistic Skill: A strong portfolio showcasing realistic natural settings, particularly marine, coastal, or arctic environments.
- Collaborative Mindset: Excellent communication skills to participate in ideation workshops and align designs with project-specific branding and cultural requirements.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Experience or training in culturally sensitive design; an understanding of Indigenous protocols and storytelling is highly valued.
About the Project
This initiative aims to empower Indigenous youth and mid-career individuals by showcasing sustainable roles in the "Blue Economy." The final product is a standalone VR application allowing users to explore various career paths through interactive immersive modules that blend modern technology with traditional knowledge.