Senior UI Technical Artist

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UI Technical Artist Company: Sharkmob Location: Malmö, Skåne County, Sweden Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Technical Art / UI Development Date Posted: 2026-05-08 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Bridge the gap between artistic vision and technical implementation for game UI, ensuring visual fidelity and interactive functionality.
• Develop and optimize interactive UI elements, animations, and feedback systems that enhance player engagement within the game.
• Create and maintain visually compelling shaders and materials for UI elements, leveraging scripting languages for dynamic effects.
• Collaborate with engineers and UI/UX designers to integrate UI assets, streamline workflows, and improve the overall UI development pipeline.
• Mentor and guide junior and intermediate technical artists, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for a newly formed team working on "Exoborne," a tactical, open-world extraction shooter. The Senior UI Technical Artist will play a pivotal role in shaping the UI's innovative and player-focused aspects, directly impacting the game's user experience and visual appeal. The emphasis is on a hybrid role combining artistic sensibility with strong technical implementation skills within a game engine context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and refine interactive UI elements that respond dynamically to player actions, providing intuitive feedback and enhancing gameplay immersion.
• Collaborate closely with game engineers to ensure seamless integration of UI assets into the game engine, optimizing for performance on PC and console platforms.
• Develop and maintain custom shaders and materials for UI elements, creating advanced visual effects, transitions, and animations to elevate the user interface's aesthetic quality.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of UI tools and workflows, working alongside the UI/UX design team to expedite iteration cycles and enhance efficiency.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and intermediate technical artists, fostering their growth in UI implementation, shader development, and engine integration.
• Ensure UI elements are performant across target platforms, identifying and resolving any technical bottlenecks or optimization opportunities.
• Participate in the full UI implementation lifecycle, from initial concept and prototyping to final integration and post-launch support.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to UI implementation, emphasizing not just creating assets but also ensuring their technical viability and visual impact within the game engine. The mentorship aspect indicates a leadership component within the technical art discipline.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in Computer Science, Game Development, Digital Art, or a related field is highly recommended to support the technical and artistic demands of the role.

Experience: Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in UI/UX implementation, with a significant focus on designing and implementing UI for video games.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in UI implementation, including proficiency with modern layouting languages and tools relevant to game development.
• Strong technical skills in shader development (e.g., HLSL) and scripting languages such as Python, C#, or similar.
• Hands-on experience integrating UI elements within major game engines, particularly Unreal Engine and/or Unity.
• Solid understanding of game development pipelines and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineers, artists, and designers.
• Adaptability and a proactive mindset towards adopting new technologies and trends in UI and game development.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• An up-to-date portfolio showcasing relevant UI implementation projects in games is mandatory.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with C++ for potential deeper engine integration or tool development.
• Prior experience with Unreal Engine and console development (PlayStation, Xbox).
• Comprehensive knowledge of UI design principles, including user-centered design, typography, layout, and interactivity best practices.
• Experience utilizing design tools such as Figma for UI prototyping and asset creation.
• Experience with real-time rendering techniques and their application in UI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 7+ years of experience and a strong portfolio indicates this is a senior-level position, expected to contribute significantly from day one. The emphasis on both artistic and technical skills, particularly shader development and engine integration, is critical for a UI Technical Artist.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects demonstrating advanced UI implementation within game engines.
• Include detailed case studies for key projects, highlighting the technical challenges, solutions implemented, and the impact on the player experience.
• Demonstrate proficiency in creating interactive UI elements, complex animations, and dynamic visual effects for in-game interfaces.
• Provide examples of shader development for UI elements, illustrating creativity and technical execution.
• Clearly articulate your role and contributions in team-based projects, emphasizing collaboration with engineers and designers.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to UI development workflows, including prototyping, iteration, and optimization strategies.
• Evidence of experience in developing or improving UI tools and pipelines will be highly valued.
• Be ready to explain your methodology for integrating UI assets into game engines, ensuring performance and scalability.
• Demonstrate an understanding of how to translate UI/UX design mockups into functional, performant in-game UI.

📝 Enhancement Note: A robust portfolio is non-negotiable for this role. It should not only display visual quality but also the technical depth and problem-solving capabilities required for advanced UI implementation in a AAA game development environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Senior level, 7+ years of experience, and location in Malmö, Sweden, a competitive salary range is estimated between 55,000 - 75,000 SEK per month gross. This range is benchmarked against similar senior technical art roles in the Swedish game development industry, considering the cost of living in Malmö.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation days and public holidays.
• Pension scheme contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending industry conferences.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Sweden.
• Potential for stock options or other equity programs.
• Access to state-of-the-art development tools and technology.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and team needs. The role is based on-site in Malmö.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is a guideline based on industry standards for senior technical artists in Sweden. Actual compensation will be determined by experience, specific skills, and interview performance. Sharkmob is known for offering a strong benefits package to attract and retain talent in the competitive game development sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Game Development (AAA quality games for PC and console). Sharkmob is focused on creating multiplayer experiences, with a current emphasis on the tactical extraction shooter genre through their upcoming title, "Exoborne." Company Size: With a history dating back to 2017, Sharkmob has grown to be a significant studio. While exact current numbers fluctuate, it's understood to be a mid-to-large sized independent studio with multiple teams working on different projects, likely numbering in the hundreds of employees. This size allows for established processes while maintaining a degree of agility and direct impact for individuals. Founded: 2017. Sharkmob was founded with the ambition of taking multiplayer games to new heights, leveraging the power of Unreal Engine. Their journey includes the release of "Bloodhunt" and the upcoming "Exoborne."

Team Structure:

• The UI Technical Artist will join a newly formed team dedicated to "Exoborne," implying a dynamic and potentially fast-paced environment with opportunities to influence processes from the outset.
• This role will likely be part of a broader Technical Art or Art department, collaborating closely with UI/UX Designers, Game Artists, and Gameplay Engineers.
• Reporting structure will likely be to a Lead Technical Artist or Art Director, with direct mentorship responsibilities for junior team members.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the emphasis on player experience and performance optimization in UI.
• Agile development methodologies are common in game development, suggesting iterative design and development cycles.
• Strong emphasis on collaboration across disciplines to achieve a cohesive and high-quality game experience.

Company Website: https://career.sharkmob.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Sharkmob emphasizes shared ownership, creating great games, and having fun. As a relatively young but ambitious studio, they foster an environment where employees can make a significant impact, particularly within newly formed teams.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Technical Artist. This level signifies a high degree of autonomy, technical expertise, and the ability to mentor others. The role is expected to be a key contributor to the UI's technical and artistic success, influencing design decisions and driving implementation standards.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UI Technical Artist will likely report to a Lead Technical Artist or Art Director. They will also have direct mentorship responsibilities for junior and intermediate technical artists within the UI team. Collaboration will be extensive with UI/UX designers and game programmers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the player experience. A well-implemented, visually appealing, and performant UI is critical for user engagement, clarity, and overall game satisfaction, especially in a tactical extraction shooter where information delivery is paramount. The technical artist's work directly translates artistic vision into a functional and immersive interface, influencing player retention and perception of game quality.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced shader programming, engine-specific UI frameworks, or real-time rendering techniques for UI.
• Leadership Development: Progress into Lead Technical Artist or Art Director roles, managing teams, setting technical art direction, and overseeing project-wide UI implementation strategies.
• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Acquisition: Gain deeper insights into UI/UX design principles, gameplay mechanics, or engine architecture through close collaboration.
• Project Leadership: Take ownership of key UI systems or features, driving their development and implementation from concept to release.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and mentorship responsibilities suggest a clear path for career progression within Sharkmob's technical art discipline, potentially leading to leadership roles or highly specialized expert positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in Malmö, Sweden. Sharkmob provides a professional office environment designed to foster collaboration and creativity. Office Location(s): Stortorget 11, Malmö, Sweden. This central location in Malmö offers accessibility and a vibrant urban setting.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace equipped with modern hardware and software necessary for AAA game development.
• Access to high-performance workstations, dual monitors, and potentially specialized peripherals for UI development.
• Opportunities for close interaction with cross-functional teams (programmers, designers, other artists) in a dynamic studio environment.
• The office setup likely supports both focused individual work and team-based brainstorming sessions.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time (typically 40 hours/week) and on-site. While core hours are expected, there may be some flexibility to accommodate project needs, but a consistent presence in the office is required for effective team collaboration and mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an on-site role highlights Sharkmob's preference for in-person collaboration, team building, and the dynamic exchange of ideas essential for game development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess fundamental qualifications and experience.
• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to thoroughly review your portfolio, discuss your projects, technical approaches, and problem-solving methodologies. This may include live coding or shader debugging demonstrations.
• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion on UI implementation techniques, shader development, game engine knowledge (Unreal Engine/Unity), and scripting proficiency. Expect questions about optimizing UI performance.
• Team/Culture Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members (Lead Technical Artist, Art Director, UI Designers, Engineers) to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with Sharkmob's values.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management to discuss overall fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight UI Technical Art: Focus on projects where you were responsible for the technical implementation of UI elements, shader creation for UI, and engine integration.
• Showcase Interactivity & Animation: Provide clear examples and explanations of how your implemented UI elements are interactive and animated.
• Detail Your Process: For each project, explain your workflow, the tools you used, the technical challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., performance improvements).
• Shader Examples: Include specific examples of shaders you developed for UI, explaining their purpose and functionality.
• Engine Proficiency: Clearly indicate which game engines were used and your level of expertise with their UI systems.
• Conciseness: While comprehensive, ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate and highlights your most relevant work upfront.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a technical challenge that might involve implementing a UI feature, creating a specific shader effect, or optimizing existing UI elements within a provided engine environment (likely Unreal Engine).
• Focus on demonstrating clear problem-solving skills, efficient coding/scripting practices, and effective communication of your thought process.
• Practice explaining complex technical concepts concisely and clearly, as if presenting to a mixed audience of artists and engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to dive deep into the technical aspects of their showcased UI work, demonstrating not just aesthetic skill but robust engineering capabilities within the game development context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Game Engines: Unreal Engine (primary focus, with Unity knowledge as a strong plus).
• Scripting Languages: Python, C#, HLSL.
• Shader Development Tools: Familiarity with engine-specific shader editors (e.g., Unreal Engine's Material Editor) and shader languages (HLSL).
• UI Implementation Tools: Proficiency with engine-specific UI frameworks (e.g., Unreal Motion Graphics - UMG, Unity's UI Toolkit/UGUI).
• Layouting Languages/Tools: Understanding of concepts and tools used for defining UI layouts and interactivity.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this role, understanding how UI performance is tracked and reported within the engine is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core functions, but familiarity with project management and version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce) is expected in a development environment.
• Design Tools: Figma (preferred), Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for asset creation and understanding design assets.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Unreal Engine and its UI system (UMG) is a key technical requirement. The ability to develop shaders and script interactions is critical for bringing UI designs to life dynamically.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Shared Ownership: Taking responsibility for the success of the UI, from concept to implementation and beyond, fostering a sense of collective achievement.
• Creating Great Games: A passion for developing high-quality, engaging gaming experiences that resonate with players.
• Having Fun: Cultivating a positive and enjoyable work environment where creativity thrives.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, valuing input from all disciplines to achieve common goals.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and approaches to push the boundaries of UI design and implementation in games.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, working closely with UI/UX designers, game programmers, and other technical artists.
• Open communication and constructive feedback are encouraged to ensure the best possible outcome for the UI.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving, seeking input and solutions from team members across disciplines.
• Mentorship and knowledge sharing are integral, fostering a supportive environment for team growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sharkmob's core values are central to their culture. Candidates should demonstrate how their approach to work aligns with these principles, particularly in a team setting focused on delivering innovative gaming experiences.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Technical Complexity: Implementing sophisticated, interactive UI elements and shaders within engine constraints while maintaining high performance across multiple platforms.
• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Effectively translating artistic concepts into technical specifications and vice-versa, ensuring clear understanding between artists, designers, and engineers.
• Evolving Project Needs: Adapting to potential shifts in game design and technical requirements throughout the development cycle.
• Mentorship Demands: Balancing individual contributions with the responsibility of guiding and developing junior team members.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Engine Features: Deep dive into Unreal Engine's UI and rendering systems, exploring cutting-edge features.
• Shader Optimization: Master techniques for creating highly performant and visually stunning shaders for real-time applications.
• Cross-Functional Learning: Gain in-depth knowledge of game design, programming, and user experience principles through daily interaction.
• Leadership Skills: Develop mentorship and team leadership capabilities, potentially paving the way for future management roles.
• Industry Trends: Stay abreast of the latest advancements in UI technology, game development tools, and player interaction paradigms.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to tackle complex technical challenges in a AAA game development setting, providing substantial growth in both technical expertise and leadership potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to implement a complex, interactive UI element. What were the technical challenges, and how did you solve them?" (Focus on your process, engine specifics, and problem-solving.)
• "How do you approach optimizing UI performance for different platforms (PC vs. Console)?" (Discuss profiling tools, shader optimization, and asset management.)
• "Walk us through a UI shader you created. What was its purpose, how did you build it, and what were the key technical considerations?" (Be prepared to show examples and explain your shader logic.)
• "How do you balance artistic vision with technical constraints when implementing UI?" (Highlight your understanding of trade-offs and collaborative negotiation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Sharkmob and the 'Exoborne' project specifically?" (Research the game, studio values, and articulate your genuine interest.)
• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially in a mentorship role?" (Provide examples of your teamwork and guidance.)
• "What are your thoughts on our studio values: Shared Ownership, Creating Great Games, and Having Fun?" (Explain how you embody these values in your work.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project or by skill type (e.g., interactive elements, shaders, engine integration).
• Narrative: For each key project, tell a story: problem, your solution, technical details, and the outcome/impact. Use visuals effectively.
• Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss the specifics of your implementation – the code, shaders, engine features used, and any performance considerations.
• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use video clips or interactive demos where possible to showcase dynamic UI elements and animations.
• Conciseness: Focus on your most relevant and impactful work. Be prepared to answer questions on specific pieces quickly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to demonstrate not only your technical skills but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and your understanding of how UI contributes to the overall player experience in a game like "Exoborne."

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UI Technical Artist position:

• Submit your application through the Sharkmob careers portal at https://career.sharkmob.com/jobs/7704242-senior-ui-technical-artist.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your 7+ years of UI implementation experience in game development, explicitly mentioning Unreal Engine, Unity, shader development (HLSL), and scripting languages (Python, C#). Quantify achievements where possible.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure it prominently features your strongest UI technical art projects, emphasizing interactive elements, shaders, engine integration, and problem-solving. Include case studies with technical details and outcomes.
• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate in-depth questions about your portfolio projects, shader logic, engine capabilities, and performance optimization strategies.
• Research Sharkmob and Exoborne: Understand the company's values, their games, and the specific genre and vision of "Exoborne" to articulate your motivations and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.