Environment Artist (Generalist) at Naughty Dog

Santa Monica, California, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Junior (1 to 2 years), Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Video Games, GamingIndustries

Requirements

Ability to work hybrid from Santa Monica, CA based studio
2+ years’ experience creating high quality environments
Strong layout skills and ability to ideate effectively with minimal concept art and direction
Solid understanding of the layout process with ability to ideate effectively with minimal concept art, using established looks as a benchmark
Strong ability to define complex looks for levels with minimal concept art and direction
Ability to propagate established looks and expand them as needed to complete levels to an established quality with minimal direction
Solid understanding of how to build environments in AAA game development
Collaborative mindset while working closely with other departments to find and propose solutions
Strong art sensibilities related to color, composition, and scale
Self-motivated - can execute the vision for the level until completion in a timely and efficient manner
Foundational understanding of modeling as demonstrated by ability to create high quality architecture and organic models
Able to achieve a high level of detail through modern modeling techniques and strong understanding of modular construction
Solid polygonal modeling skills - able to generate clean and efficient models
Ability to create and apply materials across a variety of subject matter
Solid ability to create tiling and trim texture sets
Proficient at sculpting/painting surface details and controlling shader features that represent a wide variety of material types
Portfolio or demo reel of work (required as part of application process); may be asked to complete an art test

Responsibilities

Create models and assemble scenes across a variety of subject matter
Troubleshoot and maintain levels to stay in frame rate, memory, and design spec
Collaborate to achieve design and art direction goals as it pertains to building game art

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

3D ModelingScene AssemblyLevel OptimizationLayout DesignPerformance TroubleshootingEnvironment ArtIdeationArt Direction Collaboration

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this position remote or hybrid?

The role requires the ability to work hybrid from the Santa Monica, CA based studio.

What experience is required for this Environment Artist role?

Candidates need 2+ years’ experience creating high quality environments and a solid understanding of building environments in AAA game development.

What key skills are needed for environment layout and modeling?

Strong layout skills, foundational understanding of modeling for high quality architecture and organic models, and solid polygonal modeling skills using modern techniques and modular construction are required.

What is the company culture like at Naughty Dog?

Naughty Dog values innovation, diverse candidates, collaboration across departments, and a broad range of cultural experiences to enhance studio success and game quality.

What makes a strong candidate for this Environment Artist position?

A strong candidate is detail-oriented, self-motivated, has strong art sensibilities for color, composition, and scale, and can ideate and execute complex level looks with minimal direction in the AAA game space.

Naughty Dog

Develops story-driven video games for PlayStation

About Naughty Dog

Naughty Dog develops video games, focusing on creating high-quality, story-driven experiences for players. Their games, such as Crash Bandicoot, Uncharted, and The Last of Us, are designed to engage players emotionally and are exclusive to PlayStation platforms. This exclusivity helps boost PlayStation console sales and builds a loyal fan base. Naughty Dog generates revenue primarily through game sales, downloadable content, and partnerships, including adaptations like the HBO series for The Last of Us. The company stands out from competitors by consistently delivering award-winning titles that emphasize character-driven storytelling and advanced technology, aiming to provide memorable gaming experiences.

Santa Monica, CaliforniaHeadquarters

1984Year Founded

ACQUISITIONCompany Stage

Entertainment, GamingIndustries

501-1,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Paid Vacation

Wellness Program

Remote Work Options

Hybrid Work Options

Risks

High development costs for AAA games could strain Naughty Dog's financial resources.

'Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet' may not meet high expectations from fans.

Increased competition from major studios could overshadow Naughty Dog's new releases.

Differentiation

Naughty Dog is renowned for its emotionally engaging, story-driven video games.

The studio's exclusivity to PlayStation platforms enhances its brand loyalty and market position.

Naughty Dog's collaboration with HBO for 'The Last of Us' series expands its media presence.

Upsides

The new IP 'Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet' could attract sci-fi gaming enthusiasts.

PC remaster of 'The Last of Us Part 2' taps into the growing PC gaming market.

Hiring Raf Grassetti may enhance visual storytelling and artistic quality in future projects.

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