Lead Lighting Artist (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Lead Lighting Artist (Gamedev): Defining and delivering a high-quality lighting vision across multiple projects using an in-house engine with an accent on visual consistency, narrative clarity, and technical optimization. Focus on crafting atmospheric lighting, developing lighting pipelines, and mentoring artists to raise the studio's overall visual bar.

Location: On-site in Oxford, UK. Permanent right to work in the UK is required; sponsorship is not provided.

Company

Independent developer and publisher of video games, films, and comics for over 30 years.

What you will do

• Define and deliver high-quality lighting visions across multiple projects using an in-house engine.
• Establish and maintain consistent best practices for physically-based rendering (PBR) across all studio projects.
• Develop lighting pipelines, tools, and documentation to improve team efficiency and output quality.
• Mentor lighting artists and train environment artists on lighting best practices.
• Collaborate with Art Directors, VFX, and design teams to ensure visual consistency and narrative clarity.
• Optimize lighting to maximize performance without compromising visual quality.

Requirements

• Expert-level portfolio showcasing PBR shading and real-time lighting in engines like Unreal or Unity.
• Deep understanding of lighting fundamentals, including color theory, exposure, and contrast.
• Significant professional experience developing in-game lighting that supports gameplay and narrative.
• Proven ability to take ownership of lighting across multiple projects simultaneously.
• Permanent right to work in the UK (sponsorship is not available).

Nice to have

• Experience in a lead or senior lighting role, including mentoring junior and mid-level artists.
• Familiarity with HDR authoring workflows and calibration.
• Experience working with proprietary or in-house engines.
• Knowledge of post-processing pipelines, including tone-mapping and bloom.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive holiday package including 22 days plus Christmas and Bank holidays.
• Private Medical Insurance, healthcare cash plan, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life Assurance, Income Protection, and an enhanced pension scheme.
• Relocation package including moving assistance and temporary accommodation.
• Creative and relaxed working environment at a riverside headquarters in Oxford.