Red Star hiring CFX / VFX Artist , Sheffield 2026

The Role: Crafting the Spectacle

The CFX / VFX Artist at Red Star is responsible for adding the layers of realism, magic, and tactile detail that bring an animated world to life. In “The Amazing Maurice 2,” the stakes are higher, the environments are more complex, and the character interactions require a sophisticated touch.

You will be tasked with everything from the subtle sway of a character’s clothing to the explosive dynamics of large-scale fluid and particle simulations. This role sits at the intersection of the Animation and Lighting departments, ensuring that character performances are enhanced by believable physics and that the visual language of the film remains consistent and breathtaking.

Detailed Key Responsibilities

1. Visual Effects (VFX) & Dynamics

• Particle Systems: Design and implement intricate particle effects using Houdini, ranging from atmospheric dust and magical elements to debris and environmental FX.

• Rigid & Soft Body Dynamics: Execute complex simulations for breaking objects, colliding surfaces, and organic tissue movement to ensure the physical world feels “heavy” and reactive.

• Fluid Simulations: Run high-end fluid simulations in Houdini. This includes both large-scale liquid effects (splashes, pouring, oceans) and volumetric effects (smoke, fire, clouds, and magical mists).

2. Character Effects (CFX)

• Cloth Simulation: Implement high-fidelity cloth FX using Maya. You will be responsible for the motion of garments, ensuring they react naturally to the character’s performance without clipping or losing their silhouette.

• Groom & Hair Simulation: Manage hair and fur simulations, maintaining the aesthetic style of the characters while ensuring the groom behaves predictably under various lighting and movement conditions.

• Deformation Cleanup: Work closely with the animation team to fix intersections or technical glitches that occur during high-action sequences.

3. Pipeline & Technical Contribution

• Inter-Departmental Collaboration: Coordinate with the Rigging and Animation departments to ensure that assets are “sim-ready” and with the Lighting/Compositing teams to ensure the FX passes are optimized for the final render.

• Optimization: Balance visual quality with render times, ensuring that complex simulations remain efficient and manageable within the studio’s technical infrastructure.

Comprehensive Requirements

Red Star is seeking artists who possess a “problem-solving” mindset and a deep love for the technical side of the craft.

Core Experience

• Production Background: A minimum of four years of professional experience in a production environment (Animation, Film, or High-End Games).

• Software Proficiency: Expert-level skills in Houdini and Autodesk Maya. You should be comfortable jumping between these two packages depending on the specific needs of the shot.

• Portfolio Excellence: A strong showreel demonstrating a keen eye for timing, weight, and the physical properties of different materials (liquids, fabrics, particulates).

Technical Skills & “Nice to Haves”

• Scripting: Proficiency in Python or experience with the Maya API is highly desirable. We value artists who can automate repetitive tasks or build custom tools to enhance the pipeline.

• Feature Film Pedigree: Previous experience working on a feature-length animated film is a significant advantage.

• Software Versatility: Familiarity with Nuke (for slap-comps) or specialized grooming tools is a plus.

Important Details & Residency Requirements

While this role is fully remote, our funding and production structure require that all candidates reside within specific geographic regions.

Critical Note: Due to project funding requirements, candidates MUST be physically based in the United Kingdom or the European Union for the duration of the contract. Strong preference will be given to candidates based in the UK.

What We Offer

• Creative Freedom: At Red Star, we value artist input. You won’t just be “running sims”; you’ll be helping design the look of the effects.

• Flexibility: Our remote-first approach allows you to work from the comfort of your home studio while staying connected via high-speed collaboration tools.

• The Sheffield Hub: For those who prefer a studio environment, our Sheffield office offers a vibrant community of artists and state-of-the-art facilities.

How to Apply

Red Star is looking for artists at all levels (Junior, Mid, and Senior). Salary is negotiable and will be discussed during the interview process based on your level of expertise and the specific value you bring to the team.

Please submit your CV, a link to your reel (with a detailed breakdown of your contributions), and your current location.