Lead Artist (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Lead Artist (Gamedev): Defining and executing the visual vision for a new horror project with an accent on immersive storytelling, horror aesthetics, and high-quality asset production. Focus on leading a multidisciplinary art team, establishing artistic standards, and balancing visual ambition with technical constraints in a rapid development environment.

Location: Must be based in the United States

Salary: $98,000 – $169,000 USD annually (based on location)

Company

A startup multimedia studio behind the hit indie horror franchise Poppy Playtime, currently expanding its team to support ambitious new projects.

What you will do

• Champion and maintain the game's visual style, quality bar, and artistic direction.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary art team through regular reviews and feedback.
• Create and refine concept art, key art, and production assets while driving rapid iteration.
• Partner with technical artists and engineers to ensure assets meet performance requirements.
• Collaborate with production to establish realistic schedules and scope recommendations.
• Establish visual language for environments, characters, and lighting to ensure consistency.

Requirements

• 7+ years of professional game art experience, with at least 2 years in a lead role.
• Shipped at least one commercial game as an Art Director, Lead Artist, or Senior Artist.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating high-quality visual development and production artwork.
• Expertise in environment, concept, or character art with a deep understanding of color theory and lighting.
• Experience working in Unreal Engine or similar modern game engines.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice to have

• Experience shipping horror, thriller, or atmospheric games.
• Familiarity with cinematic storytelling and film-inspired visual language.
• Knowledge of technical art pipelines and real-time lighting workflows.
• Experience supporting transmedia initiatives or marketing content.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) matching program.
• FSA/HSA accounts.
• Profit sharing opportunities.
• Paid time off, sick leave, and parental leave.