Giant Pixel
Job Overview
- Company Name: Giant Pixel
- Job Title: Lighting Artist (Artist & Senior Levels)
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term Contract (6 Months)
- Location: Global (Studio specifics provided upon application)
- Work Model: Studio-Based / Collaborative Production Environment
- Seniority Level: Artist to Senior Artist (Based on experience)
- Required Experience: Proven experience in sequence-based lighting for CG and cinematics
- Salary Range: Competitive (Based on experience level)
- Reporting Structure: Reports to Lighting Lead / CG Supervisor
- Industry: Video Game Development & Animation
Giant Pixel is a world-class studio dedicated to the intersection of high-end gaming and feature-quality animation. We are a collective of developers, artists, and storytellers driven by a single mission: to push the boundaries of visual excellence. At Giant Pixel, we don’t just render frames; we craft immersive atmospheres that capture the hearts and minds of global audiences.
We are currently seeking a talented Lighting Artist to join our team for a 6-month contract. This role is pivotal in defining the final visual polish of our cinematic sequences, utilizing industry-leading tools to bridge the gap between raw animation and breathtaking final imagery.
Company Overview
At Giant Pixel, our culture is built on the pillars of creativity, transparency, and innovation. We believe in the power of imagination and the importance of a collaborative spirit. By infusing every project with originality, we have established ourselves as one of the leading production houses in the world. When you join Giant Pixel, you aren’t just taking a job; you are joining a journey of excellence where your artistic voice helps shape the next generation of entertainment.
Role Overview
As a Lighting Artist, you will be responsible for the “final look” of our cinematic sequences. You will leverage your expertise in sequence-based lighting to create realistic, visually stunning setups that enhance the narrative mood and storytelling.
Working within a sophisticated pipeline, you will use tools like Arnold, Katana, and Gaffer to manage complex lighting environments. This role requires a balance of high-level artistic sensibility—specifically in color theory and composition—and technical rigor in render optimization and troubleshooting.
Key Responsibilities
Creative Lighting & Storytelling
Sequence-Based Lighting: Design and implement lighting setups for cinematic sequences that ensure visual continuity and emotional impact across multiple shots.
Mood & Composition: Apply advanced principles of lighting and color theory to guide the viewer’s eye and reinforce the narrative themes of the project.
Cross-Team Collaboration: Work closely with Animation, VFX, and Compositing to ensure that characters and effects integrate seamlessly into the lit environment.
Technical Execution & Optimization
Render Management: Optimize and troubleshoot complex lighting setups to ensure high-quality renders are achieved within strict production deadlines.
Pipeline Integration: Operate effectively within established render pipelines and workflow tools to manage sequence delivery.
Workflow Innovation: Contribute to the evolution of the department by identifying and developing best practices for lighting workflows.
Communication & Strategy
Visual Consistency: Maintain clear communication with cross-disciplinary teams to ensure all assets meet the project’s stylistic requirements.
Industry Awareness: Stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and rendering trends (Arnold, Katana, Gaffer) to keep Giant Pixel’s output world-class.
Required Qualifications & Experience
Professional Experience: A proven portfolio as a Lighting Artist, specifically focused on sequence-based lighting for CG animated features or high-end cinematic projects.
Technical Mastery: Strong proficiency with Arnold renderer, Katana, and Gaffer. You should be comfortable managing complex render layers and nodes.
Software Competency: Fluency in Maya and Nuke is essential for navigating the broader production pipeline.
Production Literacy: Experience with version control systems (e.g., Subversion or Git) and a proactive approach to resolving technical bottlenecks.
Technical Skills & Preferred Extras
Scripting: Experience with Python for automating lighting tasks or optimizing workflows is highly desirable and will be prioritized.
Programming: Knowledge of C++ or other languages is a significant bonus.
Optimization: A deep understanding of light transport, sampling, and how to balance render times against visual fidelity.
Problem Solving: A dual-minded approach to challenges, offering both creative workarounds and technical fixes.
Artist Structure & Levels
During our recruitment process, we will assess your specific skill set and experience level. Giant Pixel is currently hiring for:
Artist: Focused on shot execution, technical proficiency, and collaborative delivery.
Senior Artist: Expected to lead sequences, mentor junior talent, and tackle the most complex technical hurdles in the lighting pipeline.
Benefits & Perks
Innovative Environment: Work alongside top-tier talent in an industry-leading studio.
Cutting-Edge Tech: Access to the latest tools and hardware in the gaming and animation sectors.
Global Impact: Contribute to projects with a worldwide audience and massive cultural footprint.
Collaborative Culture: A transparent and communicative atmosphere where every artist is valued.
Application Process
To apply for the Lighting Artist position, please provide:
An updated CV/Resume highlighting your experience with sequence lighting.
A Demo Reel showcasing your lighting work, including “before and after” breakdowns or lighting passes where possible.
A brief Cover Letter explaining your experience with Katana, Arnold, or Gaffer.
Giant Pixel is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
To apply for this job please visit forms.office.com.