Lead VFX Artist at Cloud Imperium Games
Company: Cloud Imperium Games
Location: Manchester, United Kingdom
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Not Disclosed
About Cloud Imperium Games
Founded in 2012 by renowned game developer Chris Roberts, Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) is one of the largest independent game studios in the world. As a crowdfunded company, CIG works alongside a passionate global community to create the “Best Damn Space Sim Ever.”
Dedicated to delivering next-generation AAA experiences, CIG is known for innovation, groundbreaking technology, and raising the bar across the gaming industry.
Role Overview
The Lead VFX Artist will lead and mentor a talented VFX team responsible for delivering cutting-edge real-time visual effects within a vast sandbox universe. From epic spaceship battles inside gas clouds to environmental storms and futuristic holographic displays, this role shapes the visual spectacle of Star Citizen’s immersive world.
This position combines artistic leadership, technical expertise, and collaboration across multiple disciplines to push the boundaries of real-time VFX.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and manage a dedicated VFX team, supporting professional growth
- Establish best practices and set artistic and technical standards for real-time VFX
- Create high-quality sci-fi visual effects using CIG’s real-time VFX Editor
- Generate texture and mesh assets using 3DS Max, Houdini, Embergen, and After Effects
- Optimize effects for real-time performance while maintaining visual excellence
- Collaborate with VFX programmers to enhance tools, technology, and pipelines
- Work closely with Art, Design, and Audio teams to deliver cohesive gameplay experiences
Qualifications
- Proven leadership and management experience in a VFX role
- Strong artistic and technical understanding of real-time visual effects
- Experience working with real-time particle systems in game engines
- Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as 3DS Max, Houdini, Embergen, and After Effects
- Keen eye for detail and ability to analyze and recreate complex effects
- Highly self-motivated with strong problem-solving skills
- Passion for innovation and raising quality standards in real-time VFX
- Ability to guide and support junior VFX artists
Why Join Cloud Imperium Games?
- Work on one of the most ambitious AAA space simulation projects in the industry
- Collaborate with a passionate global team of industry professionals
- Contribute to groundbreaking real-time VFX technology
- Inclusive and diverse workplace culture committed to innovation
How to Apply
Apply through the official application page below:
Cloud Imperium Games is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every team member can thrive.