Senior VFX Artist - Real-Time FX for AAA Indie

Studio Wildcard; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Studio Wildcard in Seattle, WA seeks a Senior VFX Artist to create high-impact real-time VFX for ARK Survival Ascended and related updates. You will craft particle systems, shaders, textures, and tools, collaborating with designers and engineers to deliver polished visuals.

The role requires a strong portfolio, expert knowledge of Unreal Engine Niagara, and experience with Houdini/Embergen. A bachelor’s degree and 5+ years in game development are expected.

Qualifications

• Portfolio showing real-time VFX using Niagara in Unreal Engine.
• Proficiency with fluids/pyro techniques in Houdini/Embergen/Maya/Blender.
• Strong math, lighting, shaders, and performance optimization.

Responsibilities

• Independently create high-quality VFX assets and systems for games.
• Collaborate with designers and engineers to implement VFX in code/blueprints.
• Troubleshoot performance issues and optimize real-time effects.
• Document workflows and keep VFX assets organized for the team.
• Be proactive, meet deadlines, and adapt to studio needs.
• Communicate effectively and maintain a positive team attitude.

Skills

VFX design

Real-time rendering

Blueprint scripting

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Digital Art

Tools

Unreal Engine (Niagara)

Houdini

Embergen

Maya

Blender

3D software suites (General)

HLSL shader writing

Python scripting

Job description

Studio Wildcard in Seattle, WA seeks a Senior VFX Artist to create high-impact real-time VFX for ARK Survival Ascended and related updates. You will craft particle systems, shaders, textures, and tools, collaborating with designers and engineers to deliver polished visuals.

The role requires a strong portfolio, expert knowledge of Unreal Engine Niagara, and experience with Houdini/Embergen. A bachelor’s degree and 5+ years in game development are expected.