[Remote] VFX Artist - RuneScape: Dragonwilds - Fixed Term Contract at Jagex

Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Mid-level (3 to 4 years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Gaming, Video GamesIndustries

Requirements

2–4+ years of experience as a VFX Artist in the games industry, in an Unreal-Engine real-time environment
Strong artistic fundamentals: colour theory, motion, timing, composition, shape language, and visual storytelling
Ability to take direction, give constructive feedback, and work independently when needed
Experience creating shaders and materials for VFX
Experience implementing VFX using blueprints
A curated reel showcasing: Gameplay effects (e.g., combat, abilities, impacts); Environmental or atmospheric effects (fog, rain, fire, smoke, leaves, dust); Use of shaders/materials created for VFX; Examples of in-engine implementation; Breakdown notes explaining role, tools used, and any procedural workflows

Responsibilities

Create fantasy style visual effects including explosions, magic, weather, environment effects, UI effects, and character abilities
Develop and evolve the VFX style so that it fits the world and makes the game as attractive and exciting as possible
Collaborate closely with the wider team to ensure clarity, readability, and gameplay feedback through VFX
Work with the Art Director, TA Lead and VFX team to ensure effects match the style, tone, and technical constraints of the project
Implement real time gameplay and cinematic VFX, with an optimized from the start approach
Collaborate with Animators and Technical Artists to ensure smooth blending between animations, VFX timing, and character actions
Collaborate with Environment Artists to maximize mood, appeal and sense of life and movement in all environments in the game
Work with a high regard to implementation and performance costs and an active approach to profiling
Work within and establish a clean VFX pipeline, contributing creative ideas to improve the visual effects pipeline and overall presentation
Troubleshoot and fix issues related to VFX behaviour, rendering, lighting, or integration
Maintain clear documentation of VFX workflows, naming conventions, and implementation guidelines
Provide feedback and occasional mentoring to junior VFX artists

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

VFXReal-time Visual EffectsUnreal EngineParticle SystemsFantasy Style EffectsUI EffectsPerformance OptimizationProfilingVFX PipelineTechnical Art

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this role remote or does it require office work?

The role is remote within the UK, with team onsite days in the Cambridge office approximately 4 times per year.

What is the duration of this contract position?

This is a Fixed Term Contract anticipated to end mid-late 2027.

What experience and skills are required for this VFX Artist role?

Candidates need 2–4+ years of experience as a VFX Artist in the games industry using Unreal Engine, strong artistic fundamentals like colour theory and motion, experience creating shaders and materials for VFX, and implementing VFX using blueprints.

What kind of collaboration is expected in this role?

You will work closely with art, design, animation, engineering teams, Art Director, TA Lead, VFX team, Animators, Technical Artists, and Environment Artists to ensure VFX align with style, tone, technical constraints, and enhance gameplay.

What should my portfolio include to apply for this VFX Artist position?

A curated reel showcasing gameplay effects like combat and abilities, environmental or atmospheric effects such as fog, rain, fire, smoke, use of shaders/materials created for VFX, examples of in-engine implementation, and breakdown notes explaining your role.

Jagex

Develops and maintains online multiplayer games

About Jagex

Jagex develops and maintains online games that continuously evolve with new content and updates, known as "living games." Their most famous title is RuneScape, a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that attracts a diverse player base, from casual gamers to dedicated enthusiasts. Players can access basic features for free or choose a premium membership for additional content and benefits. Jagex also offers in-game purchases for virtual items and enhancements. What sets Jagex apart from competitors is its strong focus on community engagement and player feedback, which helps improve their games and foster loyalty among players. The company's goal is to create immersive gaming experiences while also supporting mental health initiatives for young people through charitable partnerships.

Cambridge, United KingdomHeadquarters

2001Year Founded

BUYOUTCompany Stage

Social Impact, GamingIndustries

501-1,000Employees

Risks

New survival game development may divert resources from existing projects.

Macarthur Fortune Holding acquisition could lead to strategic shifts alienating players.

Focus on non-Runescape projects might impact RuneScape's quality and support.

Differentiation

Jagex specializes in 'living games' that evolve with continuous updates.

RuneScape, Jagex's flagship game, has a large and dedicated player base.

Jagex emphasizes community engagement and player feedback for game improvements.

Upsides

Increased interest in survival games benefits Jagex's new RuneScape universe game.

Unreal Engine 5 use aligns with trends for high-fidelity graphics and player retention.

Macarthur Fortune Holding acquisition provides resources for expansion and innovation.

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