Sr. VFX Artist

Studio Wildcard•Bellevue, WA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We're Studio Wildcard, developers of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved -- one of the most popular and original video games in recent years. Despite our massive success, we've been able to stay independent, so that we can steer our own future in games and beyond. There's never been a better time for you to join this adventure and help us build ARK Survival Ascended, the next chapter of our original hit franchise! We're expanding and updating many of the ARK community's most beloved features, while taking full advantage of the latest tools and technologies. And now we're searching for an exceptionally talented and passionate Senior VFX Artist who can create high-impact work for the expanding ARK franchise.

Requirements

Portfolio of work demonstrating proficiency in creating and implementing real-time VFX using Niagara in Unreal Engine
Proficiency in creating VFX Assets using advanced techniques like fluids/pyro/etc in a software package like Houdini/Embergen/Maya/Max/Blender/etc
Deep knowledge of vector math, real time lighting, post FX, shaders, and real time performance issues
Proficiency with Unreal Engine Blueprint for implementing VFX and creation of VFX Systems and Tools
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Digital Art, related field or equivalent work experience
5+ years of experience working in game development or related field
At least 2 or 3 shipped AAA game as a VFX or Technical Artist

Nice To Haves

HLSL or equivalent shader writing language
Houdini Knowledge
Scripting (Python, Vex, Mel, etc.)

Responsibilities

Independently create and implement high quality, performant, and visually compelling VFX Assets/Tools/Systems for games- including real time particle systems, textures & texture atlases, shaders/materials, and scripting/Blueprints as needed
Work closely with designers, engineers and related artists to design, implement, and troubleshoot VFX
Be a self starter who meets deadlines and actively collaborates with team on VFX goals, prioritization, and scheduling
Seek out, troubleshoot, and fix performance issues
Maintain a meticulous, organized approach to creating, documenting, and sharing VFX for the team
Have a great attitude and be a positive force at the studio- flexible and adaptive to the needs of the team