About Dambuster Studios

Originally founded in 1999 as Free Radical Design our ambition and passion comes through as strongly now as when we first began. We are always seeking individuals who can emulate our values - passion, quality, and teamwork - which are embodied in our diverse and inclusive culture.

Even if you’re not sure that you meet all the criteria for a role, don’t be put off from applying - we want to hear from you. Our only requirement is that you work from the UK, and if you’re not here right now we can discuss relocation if the role requires you on-site frequently (if the role requires this, it’s outlined in the advert below). Our internal Wellbeing Committee and Mental Health First Aiders help ensure that our diversity is championed in a safe environment in our city centre studio.

Senior Weapons and Vehicles Artist (2 Year FTC)

Dambuster Studios - creators of the number one BAFTA-nominated smash hit Dead Island 2 - has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Weapons and Vehicles Artist to join our highly talented Art team on a 2-year Fixed Term Contract. We have a preference for Studio Based or Hybrid working for this role.

Role overview

As a Senior Weapons and Vehicles Artist, you will play a key role in delivering high-quality work within your area of expertise. You will be responsible for the development and creation of vehicle and weapon art assets that meet the technical, artistic and functional requirements of projects undertaken at Dambuster Studios. Your work will often include the planning, organisation and quality control of components or collections of assets that incorporate contributions from other artists and external partners.

You will act as a mentor and role model for the team, helping to set and maintain high artistic and technical standards. In this role, you will actively contribute to developing and refining the quality benchmarks and working practices of the art team. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and excellence, taking ownership of your work and proactively solving problems.

As a senior member of the team, you will support broader team goals through coaching and mentoring, as well as by championing continuous improvement in workflows and production practices. Your expertise will be instrumental in ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality outputs that align with the studio’s vision and objectives.

What we can offer you

Core hours 9.30am – 4pm, remaining hours worked flexibly
Relocation support to Nottingham, UK (if required)
Holiday allowance that increases with service (to a maximum of 30 days plus statutory public holidays)
Annual pay reviews
Company pension contribution that increases with service
Company enhanced full pay for maternity leave for the first 26 weeks (to qualifying expectant mothers)
Clear career progression within Dambuster Studios
Studio funded learning and development opportunities
Modern game development environment with the latest technologies
Vibrant, modern city centre location with good transport links
Fully subsidised gym membership with Virgin gym (Nottingham)
Annual Christmas party and Summer Family BBQ
Quarterly company funded cross-team events
Free financial advice
Employee referral bonus scheme
Cycle to work scheme
Weekly office treats, including breakfast on Monday and pastries on Friday

Responsibilities

Create Weapon and Vehicle artwork that is comparable in quality to the best art in the industry and fulfils the artistic direction set by the lead weapon and vehicle artist and art director.
To work with designers, animators and coders to maintain the functionality of Weapon and Vehicles within the game and associated animations.
The creation and development of intermediate stages of art production such as greyboxes, sometimes in preparation for outsourcing.
Planning and communicating art expectations for tasks that can go to other artists or outsource vendors.
Help to maintain asset libraries that adherence to technical requirements through their own work and through the reviewing of the products of the team as they are encountered in day to day work
Participate in meetings, reviews, and brainstorming sessions, contributing constructive feedback and innovative ideas.
Maintain comprehensive and up-to-date documentation of work processes, methodologies, and solutions.

Requirements

Proficiency in major 3D programmes such as 3ds Max, Maya, Blender or ZBrush, and 2D texturing programmes such as Photoshop or Painter, with a strong emphasis on hard surface and high-poly modelling.
Skilled in the use of game engine editors (UE, Unity or CryEngine) and associated tools to a high standard.
Strong understanding of game art production and pipelines, including modelling and material creation.
Excellent grasp of art fundamentals such as proportion, composition and colour, with the ability to apply these principles effectively in practice.
Acute observational skills and strong visual awareness to generate ideas and bring high-quality detail to artwork.
Solid understanding of art qualities specific to videogames and their interaction with broader design requirements and technical constraints.
Ability to develop, improve and document processes and techniques for use by the wider team.
Ability to give clear, high-quality and well-considered feedback on game art, taking into account art quality and direction, design, technical aspects and performance.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects, balancing priorities to meet deadlines.

Equal Opportunities Statement

Dambuster Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Anyone considering their next step in their career journey with Dambuster will receive consideration without regard to gender (including gender identity, gender expression and gender reassignment), race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, disability, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity or paternity, or membership in any other legally protected category. We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees, and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to apply.

We operate a transparent recruitment process that removes barriers for those who require reasonable adjustments. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment or onboarding process, or if you are successful in securing a position with us, please let us know what we can do to ensure your success.