Lead Technical Artist - Next-Gen Game Engine Features

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

About the Role

Our client is a visionary game development studio renowned for its innovative use of technology and breathtaking visual presentation. We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Technical Artist to join our talented team in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is instrumental in driving the technical art direction and ensuring the seamless integration of art assets within our proprietary next-generation game engine. You will mentor and guide a team of technical artists, develop cutting-edge tools and pipelines, and collaborate closely with engineers and artists to push the visual boundaries of our projects. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of both art creation and engine systems, with a proven ability to solve complex technical challenges and enhance artistic workflows. This is a unique opportunity to shape the technical foundations of our future games.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical art team, providing guidance, mentorship, and technical expertise.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain art pipelines and tools for a proprietary game engine.
• Collaborate with engineers to implement and refine engine features impacting visual fidelity and performance.
• Create and manage complex shaders, materials, and lighting systems.
• Optimize art assets and engine performance to meet stringent technical requirements.
• Work closely with artists to troubleshoot issues and ensure seamless asset integration.
• Establish and enforce technical art standards and best practices.
• Research and implement new technologies and techniques to enhance visual quality and workflow efficiency.
• Conduct art reviews and provide constructive technical feedback.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Technical Artist, with a proven track record of leadership.
• Deep understanding of game engine architecture and optimization techniques (e.g., rendering, memory, performance profiling).
• Proficiency in C++, shader languages (HLSL/GLSL), and scripting languages (Python, MEL).
• Expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, and animation software (e.g., Maya, 3ds Max, Substance Suite).
• Strong portfolio showcasing advanced technical art skills, tool development, and pipeline contributions.
• Experience with developing or working within proprietary game engines is a significant advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration abilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Digital Art, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking, next-generation game titles.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Access to state-of-the-art technology and professional development resources.
• Be part of a highly talented and creative team in a studio that values innovation.