Lead VFX Artist (Unreal Engine)

TL;DR

Lead VFX Artist (Unreal Engine): Guiding the creative and technical direction of visual effects for immersive storytelling with an accent on mentorship, performance optimization, and visual identity. Focus on developing high-quality particles, shaders, and simulations while leading a team of artists to meet AAA standards.

Location: Onsite or Hybrid in Orange, California; Remote upon consideration

Company

hirify.global is a game development studio focused on creating transformative experiences, known for the debut title Kena: Bridge of Spirits.

What you will do

• Mentor and grow the VFX team through regular critique and coaching.
• Lead the creation and implementation of optimized visual effects for characters, environments, and gameplay.
• Drive the artistic vision from concept to final implementation, including particles, shaders, textures, and simulations.
• Partner with producers to estimate departmental needs and ensure schedules align with team capacity.
• Collaborate with animation, programming, and tech art teams to integrate VFX and optimize performance.
• Maintain and improve technical standards, tools, and workflows for asset production.

Requirements

• 5-7 years of experience in creating visual effects for video games with a strong portfolio.
• Proficiency in creating real-time VFX for Unreal Engine.
• Experience with VFX optimization and performance profiling.
• Ability to create stylized FX textures from scratch.
• Bachelor’s degree in Art, Animation, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Must be based in or able to work from Orange, California (Onsite/Hybrid) or be considered for remote work.

Nice to have

• Experience working on AAA game titles.
• Up-to-date knowledge of Unreal Engine 5, specifically Niagara Fluids and Chaos Destruction.
• Proficiency in Houdini, Maya, and Photoshop.
• Experience creating both stylized and realistic VFX.

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative environment with a strong passion for storytelling.
• Opportunity to shape the visual identity and future of a growing studio.
• Focus on creating powerful, transformative experiences that impact players for a lifetime.