Hiring Lead VFX Artist at CD PROJEKT RED, Poland 2026

Job Overview

• Company Name: CD PROJEKT RED
• Project: Project Sirius (The Witcher Multiplayer)
• Job Title: Lead VFX Artist
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Location: Warsaw
• Work Model: Hybrid (In-office presence required)
• Salary Range: 33,800 – 46,475 PLN Gross Monthly
• Experience Level: 8+ Years VFX Experience with shipped AAA titles in a Lead capacity
• Core Technology: Unreal Engine 5, SideFX Houdini
• Incentives: Long-term Incentive Program (Stock Options)
• Industry: AAA Game Development / RPG
• Franchise: The Witcher

Position Overview

CD PROJEKT RED is searching for a visionary and highly technical Lead VFX Artist to join our Warsaw studio. This is a defining role for Project Sirius, an ambitious multiplayer title set within the legendary Witcher universe.

As the Lead VFX Artist, you will be the primary architect of the visual effects strategy, driving the next generation of high-fidelity, real-time effects. You will lead a talented team of artists to create impactful visuals that not only look stunning but also enhance gameplay clarity and multiplayer storytelling. We are looking for a “player-first” leader who balances creative brilliance with technical rigor, all while fostering a studio culture grounded in trust, respect, and innovation.

Company Description

To create revolutionary, story-driven RPGs which go straight to the hearts of gamers—this is our mission. CD PROJEKT RED is a global leader in the interactive entertainment industry, known for pushing the boundaries of narrative complexity and visual fidelity. Our culture is built on passion, a “rebel” spirit, and an uncompromising commitment to quality. At our Warsaw campus, we foster a truly international environment where creativity thrives, and every team member has the opportunity to leave a lasting mark on gaming history.

Role Overview

The Lead VFX Artist for Project Sirius is a critical bridge between artistic vision and technical execution. Because Sirius is a multiplayer experience, your effects must do more than provide spectacle; they must provide vital gameplay feedback while maintaining high performance across diverse network conditions.

You will lead a pod of skilled VFX artists, acting as a mentor, technical advisor, and creative director for the department. You will work in lockstep with Gameplay, Cinematics, and Environment leads to ensure that the “magic” of the Witcher world feels responsive, immersive, and technically flawless within Unreal Engine 5.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Mentorship

• Team Development: Lead and mentor a team of skilled VFX Artists, championing an inclusive environment and providing clear paths for career growth and performance.

• Goal Setting: Guide team members in setting meaningful artistic and technical goals that align with project milestones.

• Culture Building: Foster a studio culture where creativity, feedback, and technical excellence are at the forefront of daily operations.

Creative & Technical Execution

• VFX Design: Design and implement impactful real-time VFX that support a wide range of in-game moments, from high-octane combat to environmental atmosphere.

• R&D and Prototyping: Research and prototype new workflows, tools, and techniques (specifically within SideFX Houdini and UE5) to push the boundaries of what is possible in real-time.

• Pipeline Management: Help maintain and evolve an efficient, scalable production pipeline that allows for rapid iteration without sacrificing quality.

Collaboration & Quality Control

• Cross-Discipline Alignment: Collaborate with Gameplay, Environment, and Cinematic directors to ensure VFX are integrated seamlessly and support the game’s narrative and mechanical goals.

• External Collaboration: Oversee outsourced work by preparing clear briefs, performing rigorous reviews, and ensuring external partners meet CD PROJEKT RED’s high-quality standards.

• Performance & Optimization: Ensure all content is performant and optimized, utilizing advanced debugging skills to solve complex technical challenges across platforms.

Qualifications & Skills

Professional Requirements

• Experience: 8+ years of experience as a VFX Artist in game development, with at least one shipped AAA title in a Lead or comparable senior leadership role.

• Leadership Track Record: Proven ability to mentor others, influence project direction, and support team growth in a creative environment.

• Unreal Expertise: Deep, expert-level knowledge of Unreal Engine 5 and its real-time VFX systems (Niagara).

• Technical Toolset: Solid knowledge of VFX pipelines and tools, with a specific proficiency in SideFX Houdini.

Technical Proficiencies

• Simulations: Strong proficiency in both real-time and baked simulations.

• Rendering Knowledge: A deep understanding of PBR workflows, custom shaders, real-time rendering, and lighting.

• Optimization: Advanced skills in performance profiling, optimization, and debugging for high-fidelity games.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written English skills; the ability to present complex technical ideas to non-technical stakeholders.

Benefits & Professional Growth

CD PROJEKT RED provides an industry-leading benefits package designed to support the “Rebels” behind our games:

Relocation & Integration

• Full Relocation Support: Including flight tickets, a company apartment for your first month, and pet/family relocation support.

• Legalization & Tax: Full assistance with work permits and tax settlements to help you feel at home in Poland.

• Language Support: Polish lessons provided for you and your spouse/partner.

Health & Well-being

• Medical Care: Private medical healthcare with dental care and unlimited rehabilitation.

• Mental Health: Free psychological and psychiatric care and various well-being initiatives.

• Paid Leave: 20 to 26 days of holiday per year, paid sick leave, and menstrual leave (one extra day off per month).

• Family Support: RED Parents Network and the RED Summer Camp for children (mostly paid by the company).

Perks & Professional Growth

• Professional Development: Access to workshops, lectures, e-learning platforms, and internal knowledge-sharing initiatives.

• Studio Life: A dog-friendly office, onsite gym with a climbing wall, yoga/boxing classes, and healthy canteens.

• Social Culture: Regular gatherings, UNWIND parties, and a diverse, international working environment.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your CV and a link to your VFX Portfolio.

Note: A strong portfolio showcasing mastery in VFX for games is an absolute requirement. Applications without a portfolio will not be considered for this role.