VFX Artist (CONTRACT)

CONTRACT ROLE

Insomniac Games is looking for a VFX Artist. In this role, the VFX Artist is responsible for creating VFX to work and assist in gameplay, environment, and cinematics of games.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Creates, designs, and implements real-time particle effects using both static and animating 2D/3D elements.

• Placing of visual FX across all areas of the game, including environmental and gameplay FX, and cinematics.

• Create FX textures (color, normal, specular, ambient occlusion, height, and incandescent maps.)

• Possesses at least an intermediate ability to navigate and use DCC software such as Maya, Houdini, or equivalent.

• Creates FX shaders with node-based shader networks.

• Creates simple geometry and UV sets.

• Possesses an intermediate foundation in computer graphics fundamentals and artistic analysis

• Optimizes FX for framerate and memory.

• Collaborates with other development departments to ensure that FX are implemented appropriately in the game engine.

• Understands and adds to the overall art style of game.

• Orchestrates FX events involving layering and timing of different FX to create a believable scene.

• Work with external partners, including the creation of outsourcing briefs, best practice documentation, and
  packages to send to external art vendors.

• Demonstrated professionalism in attendance, communication, reading comprehension, receiving feedback and working in a production setting.

• Other duties may be assigned

Experience and Education

Five plus years of professional experience or training, or an equivalent amount of education and experience.                     

Computer Skills:

• Proficient in Maya and Houdini, competent working with joints and locators, keyframing, rigid body simulations, and UV mapping.

• Proficient in Photoshop for painting and editing textures.

• Proficient with node- based shader networks. Knowledge of other visual effects software and game engines are a plus.

• Experience learning and using proprietary toolsets to create Real Time FX is a plus.

Other Skills:

• Good team skills, collaborative attitude, and good observation skills and ability to use reference materials.

• Ability to work independently.

• Proficient Animation and timing skills.

• Solid traditional arts background a plus.