Mid VFX Artist

Keywords Studios

17d • Remote

About The Position

Keywords Studios is a global provider of creative and technical services to the video games industry. This role focuses on the creation and optimization of real-time VFX and shader networks to achieve game visual goals. The artist will design, implement, and optimize complex real-time shader networks and materials, support research and integration of innovative rendering techniques, and collaborate with lead artists and technical artists. Responsibilities include translating VFX into final in-game assets, participating in reviews, sharing technical insights, and maintaining documentation. The role also involves proactive identification of technical debt and staying current on emerging technologies and industry trends.

Requirements

• Approximately 3+ years of professional experience in the games industry.
• Strong foundational knowledge of the art pipeline, an artistic eye and practical experience in art and animation content creation.
• Demonstrated skills and interest across multiple technical domains: Shader development, VFX / Particles, Pipeline and tool development, and Real-time physics simulations.
• Proven proficiency in scripting and coding in one or more core languages
• Current, hands-on development experience with modern commercial game engines,
• Strong foundational knowledge in at least one industry DCC package (Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, Adobe Suite) and advanced skills in at least one relevant development package (Houdini, EmberGen, After Effects, or Substance suite).
• Strong attention to detail, excellent time management, problem-solving, and highly effective communication skills.
• Fluent in Japanese and with a high degree of English language proficiency.
• Currently residing in Japan and possess valid authorization to work in Japan.

Nice To Haves

• Previous production experience working on the demands and complexities of AAA game development.
• Familiarity with console development, including platforms like Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox.
• Specialised experience creating motion graphics, interface animations and in-engine visual effects (VFX) specifically designed for user interface elements.
• skill set in traditional art, drawing, or painting, providing a solid foundation in composition, colour theory, and aesthetic sensibility.

Responsibilities

• Creation and optimisation of real-time VFX and shader networks to achieve the game's visual goals.
• Design, implement, and optimise complex real-time shader networks and materials to support both VFX and general rendering needs (e.g., custom rendering passes, post-effects).
• Support research and integrate innovative rendering techniques, specialised VFX tools and procedural methods to push the visual quality bar.
• Work closely with lead artists and technical artists to translate vfx into final in-game assets.
• Participate in reviews, feedback sessions, and iterative development processes.
• Share learnings, technical insights, and new workflows within the team, and stay current on best practices in real-time VFX and optimisation.
• Create and maintain clear, up-to-date technical documentation.
• Proactively identify technical debt and potential future production risks, proposing, testing and documenting long-term technical solutions.
• Maintain an active awareness of emerging technologies, engine updates, and industry trends to ensure the studio's technical art practices remain competitive and efficient.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed