Principal Artist New

Dovetail Games; Chatham; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading game development studio located in the UK is seeking a Principal Artist to lead the environment visual direction for their games. The ideal candidate will possess at least 10 years of experience in the video games industry and have shipped a AAA title in a similar role. Responsibilities include defining quality targets, creating high-end art assets, and mentoring artists. This position offers flexibility with remote, hybrid, or in-office work options, alongside a collaborative team environment and competitive compensation.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Access to the latest tools & tech

Company funded away days

Collaborative team environment

Qualifications

• 10+ years' experience working in the video games industry.
• Shipped at least one AAA title in a Lead or Principal Artist role.
• Experience with asset integration and optimization.

Responsibilities

• Define and uphold quality targets for all environment art content.
• Provide hands-on contribution through the creation of high-end in-game art assets.
• Work closely with the Technical Artists and Engineering team to define art tools and pipelines.

Skills

Expert knowledge of real-time environment creation

High proficiency with industry tools (UE4, UE5, 3ds, Maya)

Strong communication and leadership skills

Solid understanding of procedural generation tools

Strong technical background in areas such as Unreal PCG, PBR, Shaders & Materials

Tools

UE4

UE5

3ds Max

Maya

Job description

We are looking for a Principal Artist to lead the environment visual direction for our games. This role blends high-quality environment expertise, solid technical knowledge and cross-disciplinary leadership. Working closely with the Art Director, the successful candidate will set the visual standards and steer the development of our ongoing and upcoming titles.

Responsibilities

• Define and uphold quality targets for all environment art content
• Provide hands‑on contribution through the creation of high‑end in‑game art assets, setting an example of quality, style and technical excellence
• Work closely with the Technical Artists and Engineering team to define, develop, and assist in the implementation of art tools and pipelines
• Review and provide constructive feedback on art assets, ensuring quality, consistency, and performance targets are met
• Provide high‑level artistic feedback and mentorship to senior and mid‑level environment artists
• Effectively communicate artistic goals, technical constraints, and progress with key stakeholders
• Participate in task planning and resource allocation with the Art Producers to ensure projects are correctly staffed and balanced
• Help shape long‑term artistic direction, workflows, and technical strategy for Dovetail Games' products

Person Specifications

• 10+ years' experience working in the video games industry
• Shipped at least one AAA title in a Lead or Principal Artist role
• Expert knowledge of real‑time environment creation (composition, scale, lighting, materials)
• High proficiency with industry tools (UE4, UE5, 3ds, Maya), including asset integration and optimisation
• Strong technical background in areas such as Unreal PCG, PBR, Shaders & Materials, Lighting and Optimization
• Solid understanding of procedural generation tools
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to work effectively across disciplines

Desirable

• Experience working on simulation, transport, or large‑scale environment‑driven titles
• Experience contributing to studio‑wide art standards and pipeline development
• Experience with live content

Dovetail Games are committed to promoting diversity, and all applicants will be considered on their merit, qualifications, competence, and talent regardless of any protected characteristics. At the individual's request, all roles will be considered for part time, term time only and job shares.

With a huge emphasis on our culture and wellbeing you'll experience an environment where you will be challenged but supported. We have an industry leading work life balance and flexible working is offered from day one! Want to work fully UK based remote as that's where you do your best work? That is fine by us, though certain roles will require a more hybrid style with time in the office. Ready to Create Worlds With Us? If you've a passion for art and the ambition to make a lasting impact on our games, we'd love to hear from you.

Benefits and Working Conditions

• Work where you work best - Remote, Hybrid or in Office? You choose!
• 37.5 hour working week with true flexible working
• Collaborative, supportive team environment
• Access to the latest tools & tech
• Company funded away days and team building
• Opportunity to grow and work on much loved titles
• Competitive salary and benefits
• https://careers.dovetailgames.com/benefits