Unreal Engine FX Project Lead – Freelance

We are looking for a rockstar Freelance Unreal Engine FX Project Lead to oversee an international team delivering top-tier real-time FX work. In this role, you will collaborate closely with Supervisors and Art Directors to bring to life high-quality, visually stunning effects directly within Unreal Engine.

The current Lead role is a full-time booking planned from mid June to mid November 2026. Sounds interesting? Join us!

DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES IN A NUTSHELL

– Assign and review tasks for real-time effects such as Niagara particle systems, fluid simulations, Chaos destruction, and all kinds of experimental in-engine effects.
– Mentor and lead Unreal FX Artists in their development by providing artistic guidance and technical expertise.
– Run daily team calls to review progress and align on next steps.
– Together with Supervisors, evaluate the creative and technical approach for assigned shots,sequences, or cinematic moments.
– Drive the technological development of the workflow of your team and the entire real-time pipeline, keeping performance and optimization in mind.
– Maintain good team dynamics and show initiative in solving everyday problems.

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

– Min. 5 years of professional experience in the real-time FX or games industry.
– Solid experience in a lead role.
– AAA production or high-end cinematic experience.
– Excellent expertise in Unreal Engine, with a deep mastery of the Niagara VFX system.
– Working knowledge of Houdini (for baking simulations and creating VDBs/flipbooks for UE) along with a deep understanding of all aspects of real-time 3D and VFX pipeline steps.
– Ability to work under tight deadlines.
– Very good interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with other artists and teams.

ADDITIONALLY SCORED

– Experience with Unreal Engine Blueprints, HLSL, or Maya.
– Experience with Python scripting.
– Ideally based in the European time zone (no more than 2 hours difference from CET).