VFX Director (Gamedev)

TL;DR

VFX Director (Gamedev): Defining the visual effects style and quality bar for in-game cinematics and narrative sequences with an accent on real-time effects and artistic consistency. Focus on driving innovation in real-time engines and developing scalable VFX pipelines for AAA titles.

Location: Onsite in Woodland Hills, California, USA (5 days per week)

Salary: $134,000 – $247,900 Annual

Company

The original studio behind the Call of Duty® franchise and a leading developer owned by Activision.

What you will do

• Define the visual effects style and quality bar for in-game cinematics and narrative sequences.
• Collaborate with project directors and art leads to achieve the creative vision within technical, resource, and budget limits.
• Oversee the creation and integration of VFX in real-time engines, including Unreal Engine and proprietary tools.
• Lead creative reviews and provide actionable feedback to internal and external artists to maintain consistency.
• Partner with engineering and tools teams to develop scalable VFX pipelines for pre-rendered and in-engine cinematics.
• Collaborate with gameplay design, animation, and level design teams to ensure seamless integration of effects.

Requirements

• 12+ years of experience creating real-time and pre-rendered cinematics.
• Expert knowledge of real-time VFX workflows and tools such as Unreal Engine Niagara, Houdini, Maya, or EmberGen.
• Strong knowledge of multiple scripting languages and asset deliverable pipeline architecture.
• Ability to adapt to various art styles and deep familiarity with Call of Duty lore and characters.
• Must be based in or able to work onsite in Woodland Hills, California.

Nice to have

• Experience working on AAA game franchises or high-end cinematics.
• Familiarity with game engine optimization and scripting in Python, MEL, or Blueprint.
• Knowledge of Call of Duty's specific visual tone.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and health savings accounts.
• 401(k) with company match and tuition reimbursement.
• Paid holidays, vacation, sick time, and parental leave.
• Mental health and wellbeing programs, fitness programs, and discounted games.
• Relocation assistance may be available if a move is required for the position.