CONTRACT - VFX Artist (Retro Studios)

• Creates, designs, implements and maintains real-time VFX which use both static and animating 2D/3D elements and other advanced techniques
• Able to take ownership of VFX work for various environments, mechanics and sequences while enjoying collaboration with other disciplines such as design, art, engineering and animation in order to achieve innovative and high-quality gameplay and cinematic experiences
• Understands goals and direction for a given project and adapts to a broad range of styles from realistic to artistic in order to produce VFX with a strong and appropriate sense of timing, color and drama
• Works to technical constraints by optimizing assets to run at desirable framerates and fit within memory limitations, maintaining clean and organized assets and file structures
• Assists in identifying VFX needs and proposes solutions for both current project(s) and future pipeline improvements
• Participates in esthetic & style decisions
• Participates in providing feedback for other VFX artists on their work
• Demonstrates insight into the technical side of VFX deployment
• Maintains familiarity with our project(s), understanding the latest changes and updates
• Offers training and mentoring to teammates one-on-one and in groups

*This job description outlines primary duties and requirements and is not intended to identify all tasks that may be performed; individuals occupying the position may be required to perform other duties. The company may modify job duties from time to time, either in practice or in writing.

• Must have a well-rounded portfolio of high quality real-time VFX work demonstrating a range between realistic and stylized effects
• Demonstrate ability to use independent judgment and creativity in developing effects to support art direction and theme as defined by Art Director and Lead VFX artist
• Leadership Skills:
  
  
  
  • Self-starter with proactive attitude to improve own qualifications
  • Eager to share insights and techniques with other team members
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills
  • Driven to create top quality visuals for games
  
  
  
  
• Knowledge:
  
  
  
  • Deep knowledge of the visual effects production-pipeline
  • Understanding of effects performance and memory optimization
  • Enthusiastic technical problem solver
  • Gameplay scripting of effects
  • Intermediate math skills
  • Working knowledge of pixel and vertex shaders for VFX
  • Traditional animation experience a plus
  
  
  
  
• Technical Experience with VFX for video game software:
  
  
  
  • Experience with real-time FX editor such as Unity, UDK, Popcorn FX, etc.
  • Familiarity with 2D FX such as After Effects, ToonBoom, etc.
  • Experience with simulation software such as Houdini, Maya Fluids, BiFrost, Fume FX, etc.
  • Experience with Maya for modeling, texturing
  • Familiarity with Substance Designer and Painter preferred
  
  
  
  
• 4+ years of experience in VFX artist production role for interactive entertainment, including minimum of one full product cycle as a VFX artist in the industry
• FX Credit on at least one shipped title.

Retro Studios is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy and respect for each other.