VFX Artist

A 12-month contract VFX Artist position supporting gameplay, environments, and cinema tics for a video game studio. The role creates and implements real-time particle effects across a title, collaborating with multiple departments to ensure effects match the project's overall art direction and perform within engine budgets.

• Design and implement real-time particle effects using 2D and 3D elements, both static and animated.
• Place and integrate visual FX across environmental, gameplay, and cinematic scenes.
• Author FX texture maps including color, normal, specular, ambient occlusion, height, and incandescent.
• Build FX shaders using node-based shader networks and create simple geometry and UV sets as needed.
• Optimize effects for framerate and memory performance.
• Collaborate with development departments to confirm effects are properly implemented in the game engine.
• Orchestrate layered FX events with careful timing to create believable, cohesive scenes.

• Intermediate ability to navigate and use DCC software such as Maya or Houdini, or equivalent.
• Proficient in Maya for joints, locators, keyframing, rigid body simulations, hard surface modeling, and UV mapping.
• Proficient in Photoshop for painting and editing textures.
• Proficient with node-based shader networks.
• Intermediate foundation in computer graphics fundamentals and artistic analysis.
• Proficient animation and timing skills, plus a solid traditional arts background.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with strong team and communication skills.

• Knowledge of additional visual effects software beyond Maya.
• Good observation skills and comfort using photographic or video reference material.

• Hourly rate of $75 to $85 USD, with ranges varying by geographic location.
• Flexible role that can be performed remotely.
• Eligibility for medical, dental, and vision benefits during the contract engagement.
• Background checks are conducted at the offer stage.