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 be 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.
Character Artist (FTC)
Dambuster Studios - creators of the number one BAFTA nominated smash hit Dead Island 2 - has an exciting opportunity for a Character Artist to join our highly talented Art team. This is a Fixed Term Contract ending in March 2028.
Role overview
You’ll be working together with a dynamic and supportive first-class Character Art team. Not only will you be creating character art assets, you’ll be collaborating with teams across Concept Art, Technical Animation, Tech Art and Code to ensure high-quality character art that performs well in the game engine. For the successful candidate, we can offer hybrid, remote, or studio-based work style.
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)
- Inclusion into the studio’s annual pay review (effective 1st July) following 12 months service
- Company pension contribution that increases with service
- Private Medical Insurance via AXA Health, including dental and optical cover
- Life Assurance Scheme via Zurich (x3 salary cover)
- 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
- Travel Loan Scheme for Nottingham-based employees
- Fully subsidised gym membership with Virgin gym (Nottingham)
- Quarterly company funded cross-team events such as our Annual Christmas Party, Summer Family BBQ and Teambuilding activities
- Free financial advice
- Employee referral bonus scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Weekly office treats, including breakfast on Monday and pastries on Friday
Responsibilities
- Create character art assets under the guidance of the Lead Character Artist and other artists on the team.
- Work closely with other members of the character art team to ensure consistently high quality.
- Follow character design concepts accurately, and raise any issues or necessary deviations from these with the Lead Character Artist
- Fulfil the requirements of the Technical Animation and Animation teams and ensure that the quality of the character art is apparent throughout the range of movements and uses required
- Support cinematic production as required where the narrative or visual effect requires a specific character asset, modification, or related feature
- Understand and adhere to all technical requirements as defined by Tech Art, Animation, and relevant Code teams to help maintain performance and rendering quality in the game engine and pre-rendered cutscenes
- Follow and assist in the maintenance of best practices in the folder structures, naming conventions and organisation of art assets and associated files
- Prepare for and attend daily scrums; provide updates
- Prototype new ideas and technologies.
- Create documentation and technical guides.
Requirements
- Ability to create high quality game characters.
- Understanding of the game art pipeline.
- Experience of working in a game engine
- Excellent organisation, communication, and interpersonal skill.
- Willing to continue to learn and improve your own skills; and help other team members to do the same.
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.
