Lead Technical Artist — Next-Gen Engine & Tools (Hybrid)

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 950,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

State-of-the-art technology access

Professional development resources

Creative studio environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Technical Artist in Sandton, Gauteng, to drive technical art direction for next-gen games. You will mentor a team of technical artists, build tools and pipelines, and collaborate with engineers and artists to push visuals beyond current limits.

The role requires deep engine knowledge, C++ and shader proficiency, and a strong portfolio. Hybrid work model and cutting-edge resources await you in a visionary studio.

Qualifications

• Seasoned technical artist with leadership experience.
• Strong understanding of game engine rendering, memory, and performance profiling.
• Proficiency in C++, shader languages (HLSL/GLSL) and scripting (Python, MEL).
• Expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, and animation software (Maya, 3ds Max, Substance).
• Solid portfolio showing advanced technical art, tools, and pipeline contributions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical art team with guidance and mentorship.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain art pipelines and tools for a proprietary engine.
• Collaborate with engineers to refine engine features affecting visuals and performance.
• Create and manage complex shaders, materials, and lighting systems.
• Optimize assets and engine performance to meet strict technical requirements.
• Collaborate with artists to troubleshoot and ensure seamless asset integration.
• Establish and enforce technical art standards and best practices.
• Research and implement new technologies to enhance visual quality and workflow.

Skills

Leadership

Game engine architecture

C++

Shader languages

Scripting (Python, MEL)

Modeling/Texturing/Animation

Portfolio

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Digital Art or related field

Tools

Maya

3ds Max

Substance Suite

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Technical Artist in Sandton, Gauteng, to drive technical art direction for next-gen games. You will mentor a team of technical artists, build tools and pipelines, and collaborate with engineers and artists to push visuals beyond current limits.

The role requires deep engine knowledge, C++ and shader proficiency, and a strong portfolio. Hybrid work model and cutting-edge resources await you in a visionary studio.