CAUSE AND FX

Lead FX Artist (Contract)

CAUSE AND FX  •  Auckland, NZ (Onsite)  •  4 months ago
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Job Description

WELCOME TO CAUSE & FX!

Our studio is celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and a team of committed artists known for consistently delivering exceptional work. We embrace innovation and state-of-the-art technologies while nurturing the growth and potential of our team. Our mutual commitment fuels our motivation, and we warmly welcome individuals who share the same level of passion and dedication.

THIS OPPORTUNITY:

Are you the kind of person who gets oddly excited about simulating explosions, swirling smoke, crashing waves, and magical particles? Do you love crafting FX that make people say, “HOW did they do that?!”

We’re looking for a Lead FX Artist to take charge of complex effects work, guide an enthusiastic team, and help shape unforgettable visuals across our high-end productions. You’ll collaborate across departments, lead lookdev, optimise simulations, and help build smarter pipelines, all while keeping the fun alive in the studio.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Lead the creation of high-end FX; explosions, fire, water, smoke, destruction, magic and anything else we dream up
  • Work closely with Supervisors, Leads and other departments to seamlessly blend FX into live-action and CG environments
  • Build procedural templates and reusable tools that keep workflows sharp and efficient
  • Use your lookdev superpowers to define FX style, mood and wow-factor
  • Mentor and provide feedback to fellow artists, fostering growth, collaboration and craft excellence
  • Troubleshoot simulations, optimise setups and keep everything running smoothly
  • Deliver stunning work on time across multiple shots and sequences
  • Stay ahead of industry trends and contribute to R&D that pushes boundaries

Requirements

  • 5+ years experience as an FX Artist in the VFX industry, with a proven track record in high-quality feature films, commercials, or games
  • At least 2 years of proven experience leading teams and mentoring artists in a Lead Artist role within the VFX industry
  • Mastery of Houdini, and solid experience in Maya and Nuke
  • An eye for lighting; bonus points if you’ve worked with Karma or volumetric workflows
  • Experience building procedural templates and reusable setups
  • Strong lookdev chops - shaders, materials, and defining FX aesthetics
  • Deep knowledge of simulation types: fire, smoke, fluids, destruction, etc.
  • Strong artistic sensibility and technical know‑how
  • Excellent communication - you can guide, instruct, and collaborate with clarity
  • A passion for VFX that shines through in your work

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with scripting languages (Python, VEX, MEL) to enhance workflows and automate tasks
  • Knowledge of real-time engines such as Unreal or Unity for interactive VFX
  • Previous experience working in a fast-paced studio environment with tight deadlines

Benefits

  • Join a company that values kindness, curiosity, teamwork, and creativity! Our Values aren't just words on a wall.
  • Interesting, exciting, and varied role within the film and TV industry
  • Social events: Weekly quiz, Fromage Friday and regular team events.

At Cause & FX we promote a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusiveness, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger, more creative and ultimately better at what we do. At Cause and FX everybody’s welcome.

CAUSE AND FX

About CAUSE AND FX

Cause and FX is about creating with curiosity. Our team loves the excitement of every new project and exploring new creative possibilities. We bring the energy and passion needed to make sure a job isn’t just done, it’s done well.

We are an independent studio in Auckland, New Zealand. Since our founding in 2011, Cause and FX has been handling local and international projects of all shapes and sizes. Our team prides itself on creating a collaborative atmosphere that helps you tell the stories you want to tell. Right from the start, we aim to be a partner in your process, and to make it easier for you to deliver your creative vision.

Offering a wide range of cutting-edge services.

Pre / Post-visualization, Unreal Engine integration, 2D/3D FX, Hard Surface and Environmental CG, Digital Matte Painting (DMP), Compositing, Set Extension, as well as Creature and Water effects. Our experienced professionals are also available for On Set Supervision to ensure your production runs smoothly from start to finish.

Are you ready to unlock a world of endless creativity?

Connect with us now and let's bring your creative vision to life!

Industry
Unknown
Company Size
51-200 employees
Headquarters
Auckland, NZ
Year Founded
2011
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