Vine FX is hiring 3D FX Artist 2026, Cambridge
Job Overview Company: Vine FX Role Title: FX Artist Department: 3D Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom (Hybrid) / Remote (Time-zone restricted) Job Type: Full-Time / Contract (Project dependent) Primary Tool: SideFX Houdini Time-Zone Requirement: Must be eligible to work in the UK or located within ±2 hours of GMT Recruitment Status: Active & Speculative Vine FX, a premier boutique visual effects studio known for delivering high-end imagery for episodic television and feature films, is expanding its 3D department. We are currently seeking a highly skilled and creative FX Artist to join our team for several upcoming high-profile projects. At Vine FX, we pride ourselves on our collaborative environment and our ability to tackle complex visual challenges with a streamlined, artist-focused approach. Whether you are creating large-scale destruction, intricate particle simulations, or subtle atmospheric effects, your work will be integral to the narrative and visual success of our productions. Salary & Compensation Table (UK Industry Benchmarks 2026) Vine FX offers competitive rates that reflect the specialized technical nature of Houdini-based FX work within the UK visual effects market. Component Estimated Range / Details Annual Base Salary £55,000 – £78,000 GBP (Based on seniority and portfolio) Contractor Day Rate £300 – £450 GBP (Based on project length and expertise) Remote Flexibility Hybrid options for local artists; remote for eligible time zones Pension Workplace pension scheme for UK employees Studio Culture Close-knit, boutique environment with a focus on work-life balance HQ Location Bateman House, Cambridge, CB2 1LQ Detailed Responsibilities: The Art of Simulation As an FX Artist at Vine FX, you will be at the center of the technical-creative intersection. You will be responsible for conceptualizing and executing simulations that enhance the storytelling of our projects. 1. FX Design & Execution Simulation Mastery: Create a wide range of high-quality effects, including but not limited to: fire, smoke, water, destruction (RBD), cloth, and magical/stylized particles. Houdini Workflow: Utilize Houdini to build procedural setups that are scalable and efficient, allowing for rapid iterations based on supervisor feedback. Look Development: Collaborate with the Lighting and Compositing teams to ensure that FX passes are delivered with the necessary attributes for seamless integration. 2. Technical Integration & Pipeline VFX Studio Standards: Work within our established pipeline, ensuring all assets are correctly cached, versioned, and optimized for render. Problem Solving: Address technical bottlenecks within the FX pipeline, finding creative workarounds for complex simulation challenges. Collaboration: Maintain regular communication with 3D Leads and the CG Supervisor to ensure FX work aligns with the overall aesthetic and technical requirements of the show. 3. Administrative & Professional Growth Speculative Contribution: Even when between shots, contribute to the studio’s internal “shelf tools” and procedural libraries to help streamline future FX tasks. Feedback Loops: Participate in daily reviews and provide constructive feedback to peers while being receptive to creative direction from Directors and Supervisors. Qualifications: What You Bring to Vine FX We are looking for an artist who is as technically proficient as they are creatively inspired. The ideal candidate has “battle-tested” experience in a professional VFX house. Essential Requirements: Houdini Expertise: A strong working knowledge of SideFX Houdini is mandatory. You should be comfortable with VEX and/or VOPs for custom tool building. Professional Track Record: Previous experience working within a dedicated Visual Effects Studio environment on episodic or feature film content. The Portfolio: A high-end FX reel that demonstrates a mastery of timing, weight, and scale. We want to see simulations that feel grounded in physics yet tailored for cinematic appeal. Communication: Excellent verbal and written English skills are required, especially for remote collaboration. Location & Eligibility: UK/GMT Focus: While we are open to remote work, we strictly require applicants to be eligible to work in the UK or be located within +/- 2 hours of the GMT time zone. This ensures overlap for dailies and collaborative sessions. Why Join Vine FX? Vine FX is not just another “factory” studio. We are a boutique shop that values the individual voice of the artist. Cambridge Creativity: Our headquarters in Cambridge provides a refreshing alternative to the London “Soho” grind, offering a high quality of life while still working on world-class projects. High-Profile Projects: Our portfolio includes acclaimed work for major broadcasters and streaming platforms. You will be working on content seen by millions globally. Boutique Mentality: At Vine FX, you aren’t just a number. You will have more “ownership” over your shots and a direct line of communication with the studio’s leadership. Flexibility: We were early adopters of the hybrid/remote model, and we understand that artists produce their best work when they have a setup that suits their lifestyle. Understanding the Role: FX Artist vs. FX Lead At Vine FX, we welcome applications from both mid-level and senior-level artists. Feature FX Artist (Mid) Senior/Lead FX Artist Focus Executing specific shots and setups Designing master systems and tools Supervision Guided by Lead/Supervisor Mentors juniors and solves pipeline issues Pipeline Uses existing shelf tools Builds and improves HDA libraries Experience 3-5 Years 6+ Years Application Requirements Vine FX is always looking for talent. Whether you are available immediately or looking for future opportunities, we want to hear from you. Please submit the following: Link to your FX Reel: Please ensure this includes a breakdown of your specific contributions for each shot (especially if the shot involved multiple artists). Updated CV: Highlighting your studio experience and Houdini proficiency. Remote Status: Clearly state your location and your eligibility to work in the UK or within the GMT +/- 2 hour window.