Remote Senior VFX Artist - GameSim - Talent Pipeline (Cambridge)

GameSim GameSim is a game development studio that partners with clients to build games across PC/console and a range of art styles. We value craftsmanship, collaboration, and shipping work we’re proud to put our names on. Based in Orlando, FL, we’re looking for a Senior VFX Artist to contribute to our game‑ready visual effects pipeline. Key Success Criteria (First 90 Days) Learn a proprietary engine quickly or work effectively in UE5 and Unity. Deliver multiple complete, optimized effects and/or specialty materials that match concept and art direction. Establish trust as a lead by communicating progress, risks, and dependencies. Contribute to VFX standards (templates, naming, budgets, checklists) to improve consistency and throughput. Day-to-Day Responsibilities Create custom real‑time visual effects and implement them in UE5, Unity, or a proprietary engine. Generate all required textures and materials, maintaining clean, readable graphs and parameterization. Use additional tools (Photoshop, Blender, Houdini, Maya) as needed. Understand complex material setups, blueprints or scripting hooks; troubleshoot issues in partnership with Tech Art/Engineering. Own optimization fundamentals: budgets, overdraw, particle counts, memory/performance constraints, and console targets. Set a quality bar, review and paint over work, and guide VFX execution for small pods or strike teams. Proactively identify risks, propose solutions, and elevate concerns early. Collaborate closely with Designers, Concept Artists, and the Art Director; partner with Tech Art/Engineering as required. Support client-facing communication when needed: clarify requirements, share WIP, and align on a definition of done. Assign tasks, set short‑term priorities, and maintain a healthy backlog. Minimum Qualifications At least 8 years of professional game industry experience with a shipped title. Proven end‑to‑end real‑time VFX workflow experience in UE4/UE5 and Niagara. Strong particle animation fundamentals and shape language (readability, timing, impact). Solid material and texture creation skills in Photoshop and/or Substance Designer. Demonstrated optimization knowledge (particle counts, overdraw budgets, performance constraints). Leadership‑level communication: clear written and verbal updates, actionable feedback, and strong collaboration habits. Experience mentoring or leading other artists (formal lead role not required). Availability for Central (CT) core hours, with possible overlap with Pacific (PT) or Eastern (ET). Remote / hybrid / onsite work options are viable. Nice-to-Have Skills Houdini, Substance Designer, EmberGen, Unity experience. Scripting or coding (C#, Python, etc.). 2D or 3D animation skills. Versatility across stylized and realistic work; foliage/atmospherics experience. Experience establishing VFX standards/pipeline (templates, naming, libraries, scalability rules). Portfolio Requirements Run‑time VFX assets with clear readability. Strong material definition and texture work. Evidence of fundamentals: composition, mood, readability, color choices, animation timing, and natural energy understanding. At least one example shown in a real-time context implemented in‑game. Bonus: evidence of leadership impact (before/after mentorship, consistent effect sets, or template breakdowns). How to Apply Resume and portfolio link are required. An art test may be requested during the process. Location and Salary Open to candidates residing in Ontario or British Columbia (Canada). Salary range: $85,000 USD to $90,000 CAD. Benefits Opportunity to work on diverse projects. Three weeks of paid leave. Medical, dental and vision coverage. Sick leave and disability coverage. Performance bonus and corporate holidays. 401(k) retirement plan with company matching. Professional development support. Equal Opportunity GameSim is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities and evaluate candidates based on skills, experience, and alignment with the role. Keywords Studios is dedicated to following a well‑established Equal Opportunities Policy. We endeavor to create a workplace which provides equal opportunities for all employees and potential employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr Keywords Studios