Sr. VFX Artist

About Studio Wildcard

Studio Wildcard is the developer of the indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved. We remain independent and are currently building ARK Survival Ascended, the next chapter of the franchise, expanding and updating beloved features with the latest tools and technologies.

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

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

Pluses

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

Required Application Materials

• Resume
• Demo reel with breakdown/explanation of what you did

Benefits

• 100% of all premiums for the employee and discounted rates for dependent premiums
• Medical (3 different plans to choose from), Dental, Vision, Short Term and Long Term Disability, Life Insurance
• 401(k) option
• 100% covered Parental Leave
• PTO, Paid Holidays, Unlimited Sick Time
• FSA/ HSA options