Vine FX
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.
To apply for this job please visit jobs.vinefx.com.