Lead Lighting Artist

TN United Kingdom; Guildford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative gaming company seeks a Lead Lighting Artist to enhance visual storytelling through exceptional lighting techniques. This role involves collaborating with various teams to create engaging visuals that elevate player experiences. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in realtime lighting, a passion for visual arts, and the ability to mentor and guide a team. Join a forward-thinking organization that values diversity and creativity, and play a key role in shaping the future of gaming.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits

Work-life balance support

Respectful workplace

Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of lighting, shading, and PBR for realtime applications.
• Experience shipping AAA titles on current-generation consoles.

Responsibilities

• Guide and direct lighting teams across levels and cinematics.
• Ensure pipeline and workflow standards are maintained.

Skills

Realtime lighting expertise

PBR knowledge

UE4/5 experience

Leadership skills

Color grading tools knowledge

Interest in visual arts

Tools

DaVinci Resolve

Photoshop

Nuke

Job description

Job Description: Lead Lighting Artist at Criterion

Requisition Number: 182383

Remote: No

We are a global team of creators, storytellers, technologists, experience originators, and innovators. At Electronic Arts, we believe that amazing games start with diverse teams that reflect our players and communities.

For over fifteen years, we have entertained millions worldwide with award-winning games, especially in the Burnout and Need for Speed series, emphasizing outstanding game feel, audiovisual quality, and technical innovation.

We value healthy, engaged teams, collaboration, fresh ideas, and diverse perspectives. We do not endorse crunch time.

Responsibilities of a Lead Lighting Artist at Criterion:

• Combine a creative eye for composition and tone with technical expertise in realtime lighting and capture.
• Influence in-game and cinematic lighting to create engaging visuals that enhance player experience.
• Provide creative and technical solutions, ensuring visual quality within technical performance limits.
• Report to the Art Director and collaborate across departments and studios.

Requirements:

• Strong knowledge of lighting, shading, and PBR for realtime applications, with experience in UE4/5, Frostbite, Unity, or similar engines.
• Experience shipping AAA titles on current-generation consoles.
• Experience with reference capture for lighting, HDRI workflows, and skydome authoring.
• Knowledge of color grading tools like DaVinci Resolve.
• Leadership experience or willingness to learn team management.
• Passion for the technical aspects of realtime lighting.
• Interest in visual arts such as photography, filmography, or painting.
• Knowledge of image editing or mastering software like Photoshop or Nuke is a plus.

Expected Duties:

• Guide and direct lighting teams across levels and cinematics to meet high-quality standards.
• Support franchise leads on critical lighting needs.
• Ensure pipeline and workflow standards are maintained.
• Collaborate with engine, graphics, and tools teams to optimize workflows and set visual goals.
• Mentor team members and develop internal capabilities.
• Communicate progress and issues effectively with art directors.

About Electronic Arts

We aim to inspire the world to play through innovative games, services, and technologies. We promote diversity and inclusion, offering comprehensive benefits, work-life balance support, and a respectful workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to accessibility and fairness.