Technical Artist

Responsibilities

• Utilize your expertise in shader development (HLSL/Shader-Graph), particle simulation, dynamics, and other VFX-related rendering tricks and techniques to assist the VFX artists in the development of ground-breaking VFX for AAA games.
• Work diligently to optimize visual effects for performance without compromising visual quality, ensuring smooth and immersive gameplay experiences for players.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of VFX pipelines, tools, and workflows to streamline the creation process and improve efficiency for the entire art team.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges related to VFX implementation, including issues with performance, compatibility, and visual fidelity, while maintaining a high level of artistic integrity.
• Document techniques, and technical guidelines for VFX creation and implementation. Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on project goals and timelines.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Graphic Design, Digital Arts, Technical Art, Game Design, or related field AND 3+ years technical art or industry-related design experience
  • OR Master's Degree in Computer Science, Graphic Design, Digital Arts, Technical Art, Game Design, or related field AND 2+ years technical art or industry-related design experience
  • o OR equivalent experience.
• 3+ years experience using related software and packages (e.g., Autodesk Maya, MotionBuilder, 3D Studio Max, Adobe Creative Suite, SideFX Houdini, Zbrush, Substance Suite).

• Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements is required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to, the following specialized security screenings:
  • Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.

• 4+ years experience working with game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity, Frostbite, proprietary engines)
• Experience shipping 2+ games end to end.
• Understanding of real-time rendering techniques, shaders, and material systems.
• Expertise in scripting and programming languages such as Python, C#, or C++.
• Problem-solving skills and attention to detail, with a passion for pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling in games.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, with a proactive and positive attitude.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with applicable law, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.