Technical Artist (VFX Focus)

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 720,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Professional development

Office in Centurion

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, is seeking a talented Technical Artist with a strong focus on Visual Effects (VFX) to join their innovative studio. You will bridge art and technology, developing, optimizing, and implementing cutting-edge VFX across game projects.

The ideal candidate understands real-time rendering, shader creation, and pipeline development, with experience in Unreal Engine or Unity, Python/MEL/C#, and tools like Maya or Blender.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience as a Technical Artist with focus on real-time VFX
• Proficiency in shader languages (HLSL, GLSL) and node-based editors
• Experience with major game engines (Unreal/Unity)
• Proficiency in scripting languages (Python, MEL, C#)
• Experience with 3D modeling, texturing, and animation software (Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, Substance Painter)
• Understanding of real-time rendering pipelines and optimization techniques
• Portfolio showcasing VFX and shader development

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize real-time VFX, shaders, and particle systems for game engines
• Create tools and scripts to automate art workflows
• Collaborate with artists to define technical requirements for VFX
• Ensure VFX meet performance targets across platforms
• Troubleshoot VFX, shaders, and art pipelines
• Research and implement new technologies to enhance visuals
• Maintain documentation for tools and pipelines
• Profile and optimize VFX assets for frame rate and memory usage
• Provide technical guidance to the art team on VFX-related matters
• Contribute to visual quality and aesthetic direction

Skills

Real-time VFX

Shader languages (HLSL/GLSL)

Unreal Engine / Unity

Python / MEL / C#

3D modeling/ texturing

Rendering pipeline optimization

Problem solving

Communication & teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/ Digital Art/ Game Development

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Maya

Blender

3ds Max

Substance Painter

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vibrant player in the Arts & Entertainment sector, is seeking a talented Technical Artist with a strong focus on Visual Effects (VFX) to join their innovative studio in Centurion, Gauteng. This role bridges the gap between art and technology, enabling artists to achieve their creative vision efficiently and effectively. You will be instrumental in developing, optimizing, and implementing cutting‑edge VFX across our game projects. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of real‑time rendering, shader creation, and pipeline development, coupled with a passion for visual storytelling. You will collaborate closely with art, design, and engineering teams to ensure our visual effects are not only stunning but also performant and scalable. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to visually spectacular projects and push the boundaries of what's possible in real‑time graphics.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize real‑time VFX, shaders, and particle systems for game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Create tools and scripts to automate art processes, improve workflow efficiency, and enhance the capabilities of the art team.
• Collaborate with artists to define technical requirements and establish best practices for VFX creation and integration.
• Work closely with engineers to ensure VFX are implemented efficiently and meet performance targets across various platforms.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to VFX, shaders, and art pipelines.
• Research and implement new technologies and techniques to enhance visual quality and artistic expression.
• Maintain documentation for tools, shaders, and art pipelines.
• Profile and optimize VFX assets to ensure smooth frame rates and optimal memory usage.
• Provide technical guidance and support to the art team on VFX-related matters.
• Contribute to the overall aesthetic direction and visual quality of the projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Digital Art, Game Development, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• 3-5 years of experience as a Technical Artist, with a significant focus on real‑time VFX development.
• Proficiency in shader languages (HLSL, GLSL) and node‑based shader editors.
• Strong experience with one or more major game engines (Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python, MEL, or C#.
• Experience with 3D modeling, texturing, and animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, Substance Painter).
• Understanding of real‑time rendering pipelines and optimization techniques.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a keen eye for visual detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities, with experience working in cross‑functional teams.
• A portfolio showcasing technical art skills, particularly in VFX and shader development.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employees will have access to professional development opportunities, including training programs and attendance at industry conferences.
• The role is based in our modern office in Centurion, Gauteng , fostering a collaborative and creative work environment.
• We provide ample paid time off, a retirement savings plan, and performance bonuses.
• Join our team and help shape the future of visual experiences in the Arts & Entertainment industry.