Senior Lighting Artist job Gearbox Studio Québec

Gearbox Studio Québec, a division of the world-renowned Gearbox Entertainment Company and a proud label of 2K (Take-Two Interactive), is seeking an exceptional Senior Lighting Artist. Joining our team in the heart of Quebec City means contributing to some of the most iconic and visually distinct franchises in gaming history, including Borderlands, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, and Homeworld.

As a Senior Lighting Artist, you are the final architect of the player’s emotional journey. You will use light, shadow, and color to guide gameplay, heighten narrative beats, and define the atmosphere of sprawling AAA worlds. This role requires a master-level understanding of Unreal Engine 5 and a deep sensitivity to the marriage of technical performance and cinematic artistry.

Job Overview: Senior Lighting Artist

Compensation & Global Market Benchmarks

While final compensation at Gearbox is determined by individual expertise, technical depth, and portfolio quality, the following table reflects the current competitive landscape for Senior Lighting roles within the high-growth Quebec gaming hub.

Note: In addition to base salary, Gearbox employees are typically eligible for comprehensive 2K/Take-Two benefits, performance bonuses, and studio-specific perks.

Core Responsibilities: The Art of Illumination

At Gearbox, lighting is not just a technical pass—it is a storytelling tool. You will be expected to:

1. Creative Visual Storytelling

• Emotional Impact: Utilize lighting to transmit specific moods and emotions that align with the narrative arc of the level.

• Composition: Demonstrate a sophisticated sense of visual composition, using light to draw the player’s eye toward key gameplay objectives and points of interest.

• Color Theory: Apply advanced knowledge of color theory to create harmonious and striking palettes that define the project’s unique identity.

2. Technical Execution & R&D

• UE5 Mastery: Leverage the full power of Unreal Engine 5 to create high-fidelity lighting solutions while strictly adhering to project-specific technical constraints.

• Pipeline Development: Work closely with the Technical Art Director to establish and refine production processes that optimize visual quality against hardware performance.

• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Partner with the Level Design and Art teams to ensure that lighting supports both the aesthetic vision and the functional requirements of gameplay.

3. Leadership & Quality Control

• Artistic Consistency: Meet and exceed the style and quality targets established by the Art Director.

• Feasibility Analysis: Act as a bridge between departments to ensure that art elements are both visually stunning and technically feasible within the game engine.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

We are looking for a veteran artist who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and possesses a “team-first” attitude.

Technical Requirements

• Industry Tenure: 5+ years of professional experience specifically as a Lighting Artist in the video game industry.

• Proven Track Record: You must have shipped at least 2 multiplatform AAA titles.

• Engine Expertise: In-depth, production-level knowledge of Unreal Engine 5.

• Global Pipeline Knowledge: Deep understanding of the end-to-end techniques and processes involved in modern game development.

Soft Skills

• Bilingualism: Excellent communication skills in both French and English are essential for our Quebec studio environment.

• Positive Attitude: An enthusiastic, proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration.

• Adaptability: The ability to pivot between different art styles—from the hyper-stylized world of Borderlands to more realistic or atmospheric environments.

The Quebec Studio Experience

Gearbox Studio Québec is a hub of exceptional talent. We pride ourselves on a culture that balances the high-octane energy of a global AAA developer with the tight-knit community feel of our Quebec office.

• Hybrid Flexibility: We support a hybrid work model that allows you to balance studio collaboration with remote productivity.

• Growth & Mentorship: Join a studio that values continuous learning and offers the opportunity to work alongside industry legends.

• Iconic IP: Contribute to the ongoing evolution of massive properties like Duke Nukem, Risk of Rain, and Brothers in Arms.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

Gearbox Studio Québec and 2K are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of the world we entertain. We believe that immersive worlds are best built by teams with varied perspectives.

• Equal Opportunity: We do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other status protected by law.

• Reasonable Accommodations: We are dedicated to providing accommodations for qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities during the recruitment process and throughout employment.

• Inclusive Environment: We strive for a workplace free from harassment and discrimination, where every voice is heard and valued.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Senior Lighting Artist position, please prepare the following:

1. Professional Resume: Highlighting your shipped titles and years of experience.

2. Portfolio/Demo Reel: A link to your portfolio is mandatory. We are looking for:

   • Examples of real-time lighting in Unreal Engine (UE4 or UE5).

   • Breakdowns of exterior/interior lighting, day/night cycles, and atmospheric effects.

   • Demonstrations of how your lighting supports player pathfinding and gameplay.

3. Cover Letter (Optional): Tell us why you’re passionate about joining the Gearbox family and which of our franchises inspires you the most.

Gearbox Studio Québec is ready to see the world through your lens. Join us in creating the next generation of award-winning interactive entertainment.