UE4 VFX Artist

We are looking for a talented VFX artist to help our realtime VFX function in the studio, taking ownership of your own work and driving the development of top quality VFX for in engine and realtime cinematics work, primarily within UE4. You’ll be a key artist in the team and, if possible for you, provide guidance on both creative and technical work across all aspects of VFX including shaders, emitters, materials, blueprints, sims and more. This will suit someone who has ambition and either wants to: * Run a small department in this area while retaining hands on, or.... * Has a passion for pushing the visual quality to the maximum, and would like to become a principal/subject matter expert in this field. We can accomodate various levels of skill and experience - and while we are looking to hire permanently, we will also consider people looking for contracts too. It all adds value to the team we are invested in. Please note - this role will be remote during Covid-19, however it can remain partially remote (with some onsite work) in perpetuity after the pandemic is less disruptive. RESPONSIBILITIES:- Develop all things realtime and in engine VFX related in the studio. Provide good direction and roadmaps on how to develop our in engine UE4 VFX team in the long term. Foster development of less senior and junior VFX crew (if you are senior or upwards). Work with pipeline TD’s and technical artists to continually develop a future proof pipeline for VFX. Work with Executive Producer and clients to help define project goals and expectations. Develop, test and refine a variety of FX based on detailed client and studio briefs. Create and refine materials and shaders to form the foundation of your FX work. Optimise and fine tune FX once they have been approved past Alpha. Create emitters and complex particle systems in Cascade. Develop blueprints to support the function of FX assigned to you. SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS: Good knowledge of UE4 – especially the material editor, Niagara, Cascade and the lighting tools. Good knowledge of Blueprints in UE4. Good knowledge of 3D modelling software Good knowledge of at least one program to create maps/textures – ideally Photoshop or Substance Suite. Experienced with Houdini and incorporating the digital assets into scenes in UE4. BONUS: Knowledge of raytracing in UE4 Knowledge of Embergen Knowledge of Houdini - especially how the pipeline works between that and UE4. MUST HAVE SKILLS & QUALITIES A strong portfolio is a must, that shows multiple examples of quality FX. Please note these examples must include clips that show the FX in full. Good eye for final asset creation, ability to follow brief and be willing to work through areas that require problem solving. Previous experience that is related in games, cinematics or the VFX space. Previous experience of coaching, managing and/or mentoring other VFX team members. Exhibit good organisational skills. Be motivated, self-disciplined. Perform well under deadline pressure in a fast paced environment, prioritising different tasks to achieve the project goals. PACKAGE/WHAT WE OFFER: Fantastic, vibrant and creative work atmosphere with highly experienced production team. Excellent development studios both in Manchester city centre and Lancashire countryside. State of the art equipment, facilities and software. Collaborative and inclusive culture –real opportunity to work across multiple areas and grow. Very competitive rates for the Northwest UK, and we can help you get moved up to NW too. Or you could work remote if this is your preference! Company pension scheme where we match contributions. Paid Overtime Bike to work scheme