Unreal FX Artist

We are Plastic Wax - an independent and award-winning animation studio specializing in pre-rendered and in-engine animation, visual effects, motion capture, compositing, and a turnkey variety of creative services. For nearly 30 years our talented crew have worked with some of the world's most beloved properties, including Mortal Kombat, Game of Thrones, Epic Mickey, Subnautica, and many more.

We have exciting new projects on the horizon, and are in need of a mid-to-senior Unreal FX Artist.

About the Role

Responsible for the direction and management of their department, the Head of Assets oversees the scheduling, workflow, and overall creative success of their team. They bring their combined expertise of cinematic artistry, technical prowess, and mentorship to lead the department to success. They also represent their department to a diverse group of clients, managing the team’s workload, priorities, and client expectations.

Responsibilities Include:

• Prepare and develop high quality simulations, particle, and shader effects
• Deliver FX shots to the highest standard
• Develop time-based sculpting and deformation fixes
• Create textures, models, and shaders to build out real-time effects using Photoshop and 3D packages
• Create setups for simulations and procedural animations
• Provide multiple creative solutions as per the creative requirements of a sequence or shot
• Communicate with the FX Lead and Art Director in dailies on creative options, processes, and potential issues
• Work collaboratively with other team members and departments
• Active participation in technical and artistic discussions
• Identify problems, help debug issues, develop tools and proactively contribute to the improvement of the pipeline through clear communication
• Provide regular updates to supervisors demonstrating the progression of your work

Required Experience & Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree
• 4yrs+ experience working on Film & TV VFX and/or AAA+ video game cinematics
• Experience with Unreal Engine 5 - including Realtime FX Systems (e.g. Niagara)
• Experience in creating advanced dynamic Shader FX in UE
• Experience in Photoshop and 3D packages (Houdini, 3DS Max, and/or Maya)
• Experience in creating both Realtime and non-Realtime FX using 3D packages (e.g. morphing meshes, pyros, and fluids)
• Experience with Shotgrid
• Ability to create assets from scratch (or using existing libraries) and match an established style
• Understanding of Animation
• Strong artistic, technical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with people across multiple departments
• Ability to work quickly and effectively to a deadline
• Strong work ethic
• Must be able to work both within team and independently, and take direction well
• A flexible approach while maintaining consistently high standards

Advantageous Experience & Skills:

• Experience in Adobe CS
• A traditional arts background (e.g. photography, painting, sculpting, etc.)

Benefits:

• Immediate start available
• 12-month contract with opportunities for permanency
• Option for remote work for the right candidate
• Stylish Sydney office with hybrid work approach
• Plenty of free street parking near the studio
• Remote work available in Australia for the perfect candidate
• Permanent employment opportunities
• Competitive salary / day rates
• Supportive work environment with an emphasis on career progression
• In-house events
• Work on world renowned IPs

If you believe you tick all the boxes and are ready to lead our Assets Department, please submit your application today.

Please ensure your latest portfolio and/or reel is linked in your attached CV. Applications without any links may not be considered.