Senior VFX Artist- Hearthstone at Blizzard Entertainment
Company: Blizzard Entertainment
Location: Irvine, California, USA
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: $80,800 – $149,400 annually
About the Role
Blizzard Entertainment is seeking a Senior VFX Artist to join the Hearthstone team in Irvine, California. This role focuses on creating high-quality real-time visual effects that match Hearthstone’s whimsical and charming artistic style. The ideal candidate will work closely with artists, designers, engineers, and producers to develop visually engaging gameplay effects that enhance storytelling and player experience.
Job Overview
As a Senior VFX Artist, you will create and implement real-time visual effects ranging from magical spells and elemental effects to legendary summons and cinematic pack-opening moments. You will collaborate across departments to maintain visual consistency and support gameplay communication while working within Unity and modern VFX pipelines.
Responsibilities
- Create handcrafted real-time visual effects for in-game assets.
- Implement, troubleshoot, and optimize VFX inside Unity.
- Collaborate with lead artists to ensure timely delivery of assets.
- Participate in art critiques, team reviews, and creative discussions.
- Develop visually compelling effects that support gameplay clarity and storytelling.
- Maintain artistic consistency with Hearthstone’s established visual style.
Qualifications
- Minimum 8 years of experience in the gaming industry.
- AAA game development experience preferred.
- Strong understanding of color, lighting, timing, texture, and shape in VFX creation.
- Experience with Photoshop, Maya, and real-time FX systems.
- Knowledge of gameplay communication and animation principles such as anticipation and follow-through.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills.
- Ability to receive and provide constructive feedback.
- Passion for creating stylized and light-hearted visual effects.
Preferred Skills
- Experience creating real-time VFX for desktop and mobile platforms.
- Familiarity with the Unity game engine.
- Technical knowledge in shader authoring, scripting, or FSM tools like PlayMaker.
- Previous game production experience.
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- 401(k) with company matching.
- Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave, and parental leave.
- Mental health and wellness programs.
- Fitness programs and discounted games.
- Tuition reimbursement and charitable donation matching.
- Potential relocation assistance for eligible candidates.
How to Apply
Apply through the official application page below:
Applicants should include a portfolio demonstrating relevant VFX and artistic skills. Online submissions only are accepted.