Lead Technical Artist (F/H/NB) [AAA Project]

The Lead Technical Artist at Ubisoft Annecy, reporting to the Technical Director, is responsible for research, innovation, and the technical quality of the production. Key missions include being a technical art reference, optimizing content for memory and performance, assisting in asset development and rendering, planning and prioritizing team objectives, providing clear expectations and feedback, communicating effectively, monitoring software/hardware trends, contributing to technological roadmaps, and identifying risks.

Must Have

• Be a reference for the Technical Art team and provide solutions.
• Optimize content to improve memory and performance.
• Intervene in the development and rendering of assets.
• Plan, prioritize, and set inspiring goals for your team.
• Give your team clear expectations and ensure accountability.
• Provide continuous and constructive feedback on team performance.
• Communicate with impact and encourage open dialogue.
• Monitor graphic software and hardware trends.
• Participate in the development of technological roadmaps.
• Identify potential risks and report them to management.
• Solid experience as a Technical Artist on AAA or AA productions.
• Experience with world building topics (level art, lighting, props, etc.).
• Strong technical skills in performance, optimization, and methodology.
• Proficiency in at least one 3D modeling software (Blender, 3DS Max, Maya).
• Strong scripting skills (Maxscript, Python...).
• Significant experience with a game engine (Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Global understanding of artistic workflow and realistic pipeline.
• Versatility, strong analytical mind, and good interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in English for international collaboration.

Company Description

Founded in 1996, Ubisoft Annecy has participated in the group's various successful blockbusters, collaborating notably on the Splinter Cell and Assassin's Creed® sagas, as well as on entire game parts such as the raid in Tom Clancy's: The Division 2® and Ghost Recon Wildlands. We are also proud to have developed our own IP, Steep, and then Riders Republic!

Beyond our AAA productions, we contribute to the group's technological innovation, thanks to our technological expertise center around the Snowdrop game engine, as well as the Technology Group in collaboration with Ubisoft Montreal.

In one of France's most dynamic regions, Ubisoft has established itself in an idyllic location between lake and mountains, in the heart of the Venice of the Alps, just 30 minutes from Geneva International Airport. With a constantly growing studio, we place the commitment of our employees and teamwork at the center of our concerns. Our ambition is reflected in innovation and excellence for an ultimate goal: the satisfaction of our players!

Job Description

Directly reporting to the Technical Director, the Lead Technical Artist is responsible for research, innovation, and the technical quality of the production.

Your main missions:

• Be a reference for the team in Technical Art and provide solutions to complex problems encountered;
• Optimize content to improve memory and performance;
• Intervene in the development and rendering of assets (models, animations, textures) if necessary.
• Plan, prioritize, and set inspiring goals for your team throughout the year;
• Give your team clear expectations and hold them accountable for key results;
• Provide continuous and constructive feedback on the performance and development of your team members, valuing every success, big or small;
• Communicate with impact and encourage open dialogue within the team;
• Monitor current and future graphic software and hardware trends and methodologies to anticipate tool and process needs;
• Participate in the development of technological roadmaps adapted to the specific needs of the project;
• Identify potential risks and report them to management;

Qualifications

• You have solid experience as a Technical Artist, ideally on AAA or AA productions, ideally on a multiplayer shooter game.
• You have worked on various world-building topics such as level art, lighting, props, level design, landscape, water, etc.
• You have strong technical skills in performance, optimization, and methodology.
• You master at least one 3D modeling software (Blender, 3DS Max, Substance Designer, Maya, etc.).
• You have strong scripting skills (Maxscript, Python...).
• You have significant experience with a game engine (Unreal Engine, Unity, proprietary engine, etc.) as well as a global understanding of the artistic workflow and pipeline in a realistic style.
• You are versatile and have a true understanding of world issues, endowed with a strong analytical mind and interpersonal skills that allow you to work effectively in a team and convey your ideas.
• Your proficiency in the English language allows you to work in an international context and communicate with your non-French-speaking peers.

Additional Information

Ubisoft's teams comprise 19,000 people across more than 30 countries worldwide and are united by a common mission: to enrich the lives of players through original and memorable gaming experiences. Their energy and talent have brought to life many acclaimed franchises such as Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, Watch Dogs, Just Dance, Rainbow Six, and many more to come.

Ubisoft is an equal opportunity employer and believes that diversity of backgrounds and perspectives is essential to creating worlds that allow everyone to thrive and express themselves. If you are enthusiastic about taking on exciting challenges, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, and participating in the future of entertainment, join us and create the unknown.

As an employer, Ubisoft offers everyone the same employment opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, social status, disability, and age. Ubisoft strives to develop an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of its player community within its teams.

All information will be treated confidentially in accordance with the Employment Equity Act.