UI Artist - 12 Month FTC

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Artist - 12 Month FTC

Company: Lighthouse Games

Location: Royal Leamington Spa, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Art & Design / Game Development Operations

Date Posted: 2026-10-02

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and implement intuitive, visually appealing, and highly usable user interfaces for AAA gaming titles.

• Develop comprehensive UI assets, including wireframes, prototypes, mockups, icons, text, menus, and HUD elements.

• Collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and programmers to ensure seamless integration of UI within the game engine.

• Drive player engagement and enhance the overall gameplay experience through exceptional UI/UX design.

• Contribute to a new AAA studio environment, aiming to create best-in-class games and advance your career.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for the player's interaction with the game, bridging the gap between game mechanics and player understanding. It requires a blend of artistic talent and a deep understanding of user experience principles within the gaming context. The "12 Month FTC" (Fixed-Term Contract) indicates a project-based need, likely for a specific game development phase.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and implement user interfaces across various gaming platforms, focusing on usability and visual appeal.

• Create detailed wireframes, interactive prototypes, and high-fidelity mockups that clearly convey design concepts and functionality.

• Collaborate closely with game designers, narrative designers, technical artists, and programmers to ensure seamless integration of UI design within the game engine.

• Develop a wide range of UI assets, including icons, text styles, menu layouts, heads-up displays (HUDs), and other interactive elements that enhance player interaction and overall experience.

• Iterate on UI designs based on feedback from the creative team, user testing results, and evolving industry best practices to optimize for player engagement.

• Maintain strict consistency in visual style, quality standards, and user experience across all game interfaces and platforms.

• Research and stay updated with the latest trends in UI/UX design, game development technologies, and competitor analysis to continually innovate and improve the game's interface.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a full lifecycle involvement in UI design, from initial concepting and wireframing to final asset creation and implementation support. The collaboration aspect is crucial, highlighting the need for strong communication and teamwork within a complex game development pipeline.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational requirements are listed, but a strong portfolio demonstrating relevant skills and experience is paramount.

Experience: Proven experience as a UI Artist within the game development industry is required, with an estimated 2-5 years of professional experience.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience as a UI Artist in game development.

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of UI design work, including examples of wireframes, prototypes, and final game interfaces.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator), Sketch, or Figma.

• Solid understanding of visual design principles, including iconography, typography, color theory, and layout design for optimal readability and aesthetic appeal.

• Ability to translate game design requirements into intuitive and engaging user interface solutions.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and collaborate effectively within a diverse team.

• A genuine passion for video games and a keen appreciation for aesthetics, user engagement, and the player experience. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with UI animation techniques and tools for creating dynamic interfaces.

• Experience working with Unreal Engine or other major game engines.

• Experience using photography for design layout and visual elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a strong portfolio and proficiency in specific design software is standard for UI Artist roles. The preference for UI animation experience and Unreal Engine knowledge suggests the studio is looking for candidates who can hit the ground running with modern game development tools and techniques.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio demonstrating a strong understanding of UI design principles within the context of game development.

• Showcase of wireframes, user flows, and interactive prototypes to illustrate the design process and problem-solving approach.

• High-fidelity mockups and final UI assets that highlight visual design skills, attention to detail, and consistency.

• Examples of UI elements for different game platforms (PC, console, mobile) if applicable.

• Case studies or project breakdowns explaining the rationale behind design choices, challenges overcome, and user-centric considerations. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document UI design processes, including workflow from concept to implementation.

• Understanding of how UI designs integrate with game engine workflows and asset pipelines.

• Documentation of UI style guides and asset specifications for development teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UI Artist role, the portfolio is the primary assessment tool. It needs to go beyond just showcasing pretty pictures; it must demonstrate a user-centered design process, technical proficiency, and the ability to integrate effectively with a game development pipeline.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a 12-month Fixed-Term Contract (FTC) in Royal Leamington Spa, England, a competitive salary within the range of £35,000 - £55,000 per annum is estimated. This range is based on the experience level (2-5 years), the specific demands of AAA game development, and regional salary benchmarks for creative roles in the UK.

Benefits:

• 25 Days Holiday, plus an additional day for your birthday.

• Studio shutdown between Christmas and New Year, providing dedicated time off.

• Discretionary Bonus Scheme, offering potential for additional compensation.

• Private Pension Scheme, contributing to long-term financial security.

• Private Healthcare, ensuring access to comprehensive medical services.

• Health and Well-Being Benefits, supporting overall employee wellness.

• Dental Care coverage.

• Optical treatments coverage.

• Mental Health Support services, providing crucial emotional and psychological assistance.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with the FULL_TIME employment type. The hybrid work arrangement suggests flexibility in how these hours are managed between studio and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical FTC rates for experienced UI Artists in the UK gaming industry. The comprehensive benefits package is generous for a fixed-term role and indicates Lighthouse Games' commitment to employee well-being and support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Game Development (AAA Studio). Lighthouse Games is positioning itself as a new AAA studio with a focus on creating high-caliber, ambitious game titles. This implies a fast-paced, innovative, and quality-driven environment.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the description "new AAA studio" suggests a growing team, likely ranging from 50-200 employees initially, with plans for expansion. This size offers a balance between a close-knit team feel and the resources to tackle large-scale projects.

Founded: Lighthouse Games is a new studio, indicating a fresh start with modern practices and a potentially dynamic, evolving culture.

Team Structure:

• The UI Artist will be part of a dedicated Creative Team, likely reporting to a Lead UI Artist or Art Director.

• Close collaboration is expected with Game Designers, Technical Artists, and Programmers, forming cross-functional project teams.

• The team structure likely emphasizes agile methodologies and iterative development cycles common in game production. Methodology:

• The studio aims to build "best-in-class games," suggesting a commitment to high production values and quality.

• A collaborative, hybrid working environment is a core part of their operational methodology, blending in-studio synergy with remote flexibility.

• Continuous learning and skill development are implicitly encouraged, given the mention of learning from "the best" and working alongside "future greats."

Company Website: lighthousegames.com

📝 Enhancement Note: As a new AAA studio, Lighthouse Games is likely to have a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and a strong artistic vision. The hybrid model suggests a modern approach to work-life balance, while the "AAA" ambition points towards high standards and demanding, rewarding projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an experienced individual contributor, likely mid-level, requiring 2-5 years of dedicated UI Art experience in game development. It's a crucial role for the player's direct interaction with the game.

Reporting Structure: The UI Artist will likely report to a Lead UI Artist or Art Director. They will work closely with cross-functional teams including game designers, programmers, and other artists.

Operations Impact: The UI Artist's work directly influences player engagement, satisfaction, and the overall perception of game quality. Effective UI design is critical for a game's success, impacting usability, accessibility, and the player's ability to navigate and understand game mechanics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of UI/UX design, animation, or engine integration.

• Lead Roles: Potential to grow into a Lead UI Artist role on future projects, managing a team and setting artistic direction.

• Project Variety: As a new studio, there will be opportunities to work on diverse AAA titles, gaining experience across different genres and platforms.

• Industry Exposure: Contribute to a studio founded by experienced talent, offering exposure to high-level game development practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a 12-month FTC, the primary growth will be in honing existing skills and gaining specific project experience. However, the studio's ambition and newness suggest opportunities for impactful contributions and potential for contract extension or future roles if performance is exceptional.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The studio operates a hybrid working model. While specific details on office days aren't provided, it implies a mix of on-site collaboration and remote work. The office is located in Royal Leamington Spa.

Office Location(s): Royal Leamington Spa, England, United Kingdom. This location is known as a hub for game development in the UK.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid setup is designed to foster collaboration, with dedicated studio days for team meetings, brainstorming, and hands-on work.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software and potentially game engine environments within the studio.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with a talented team of designers, artists, and programmers, fostering a dynamic creative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours/week) with a hybrid arrangement, offering flexibility. This allows for focused work periods, whether in the studio or remotely, and supports work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, appealing to candidates seeking flexibility. The location in Royal Leamington Spa is a significant draw for UK-based game developers.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of CVs and portfolios for relevant experience and artistic style.

• Portfolio Showcase & Technical Interview: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, discussing design rationale, process, and technical skills. This may include specific questions about UI/UX principles and game engine integration.

• Practical Task/Challenge: A short, timed assignment to assess problem-solving skills, design execution under pressure, and adherence to brief. This will likely focus on creating a specific UI element or flow.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members (Lead Artist, Designers, Programmers) to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with studio culture.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior management or studio leads to finalize terms and confirm fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase your best work that is most relevant to AAA game UI/UX. Quality over quantity.

• Showcase Process: Include wireframes, user flows, and prototypes to demonstrate your design thinking, not just final assets.

• Explain Your Rationale: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, design decisions, and the outcome. Use case studies.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Mention the software and tools used, and if applicable, demonstrate any animation or engine integration experience.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize work that aligns with the responsibilities and preferred skills mentioned in the job description.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: Carefully read and understand the requirements of any practical task.

• Focus on Usability: Prioritize clear navigation, readability, and intuitive interaction.

• Maintain Brand Consistency: If a style guide or existing assets are provided, adhere to them strictly.

• Time Management: Practice creating UI elements or flows within a limited timeframe.

• Presentation: Be prepared to briefly explain your approach and design choices for the challenge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is typical for creative roles in game development, with a strong emphasis on the portfolio and practical skills. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process and demonstrate their ability to create engaging and functional game interfaces.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for creating high-fidelity graphics, mockups, and assets (Photoshop, Illustrator).

• Sketch/Figma: Modern design and prototyping tools commonly used for UI/UX workflows.

• Wireframing/Prototyping Tools: Any industry-standard tools for creating interactive prototypes and user flows.

Analytics & Reporting: Not directly applicable to the UI Artist role, but understanding how UI performance is tracked could be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable.

Game Engine Specifics:

• Unreal Engine: Highly desirable, indicating the studio's primary development platform. Familiarity with its UI tools (UMG - Unreal Motion Graphics) would be a significant advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Experience with Sketch or Figma is highly valued. A strong understanding of Unreal Engine's UI capabilities is a significant plus, suggesting the candidate will be involved in direct engine implementation or close collaboration with technical artists.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Craft: A commitment to producing high-quality, polished work that elevates the player experience.

• Collaboration & Communication: Openness to feedback, constructive critique, and working effectively with diverse disciplines.

• Innovation & Creativity: A drive to explore new ideas, push boundaries in UI/UX design, and contribute fresh perspectives.

• Player-Centricity: A focus on understanding and meeting player needs, ensuring interfaces are intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable.

• Adaptability: Willingness to learn new tools, adapt to evolving project requirements, and embrace new technologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Iterative Design: Working in cycles of design, feedback, and refinement, often in collaboration with game designers and programmers.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamlessly integrating UI design with gameplay mechanics, art direction, and technical implementation.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing progress, seeking input, and providing clear documentation to ensure alignment across teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at a new AAA studio is often driven by a shared passion for game creation, a desire to prove themselves, and a commitment to quality. The emphasis on collaboration and player-centricity is key for success in this role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• AAA Production Demands: Working within the tight deadlines and high expectations of AAA game development can be challenging.

• Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality: Creating interfaces that are visually stunning while remaining intuitive and highly functional across different platforms.

• Technical Constraints: Adapting designs to fit within engine limitations, performance budgets, and platform-specific requirements.

• Evolving Game Design: Responding to changes in game mechanics or features that may necessitate UI redesigns.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to AAA Development: Gain invaluable experience working on a large-scale, high-profile game project.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to learn from experienced industry veterans within the studio.

• Tool Proficiency: Deepen expertise in industry-standard design software and game engines like Unreal Engine.

• Portfolio Enhancement: The project itself will serve as a significant addition to the candidate's portfolio, showcasing their ability to contribute to a AAA title.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for high-level game development roles, requiring resilience and problem-solving skills. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for a fixed-term contract where the primary growth is in experience and portfolio building.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing a new UI feature from concept to implementation." (Focus on user research, wireframing, prototyping, testing, and collaboration.)

• "How do you balance visual aesthetics with usability in game UI design?" (Discuss principles like readability, information hierarchy, and user flow.)

• "Walk me through a challenging UI project from your portfolio. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Be ready to discuss specific design decisions and their impact.)

• "How would you approach designing UI for a new IP with no established visual style?" (Emphasize research, mood boards, and iterative concepting.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Lighthouse Games and our mission to build AAA titles?" (Research the studio's vision and express genuine enthusiasm.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your designs?" (Highlight openness, a willingness to iterate, and a focus on project goals.)

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid or remote team environment." (Share examples of effective communication and collaboration strategies.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation around the narrative of each project – the problem, your solution, and the results.

• Highlight Key Assets: Focus on showcasing the most impactful pieces of your work, explaining the design choices behind them.

• Demonstrate Process: Show wireframes, user flows, and prototypes alongside final assets to illustrate your design thinking.

• Be Concise and Clear: Articulate your points effectively and avoid jargon where possible.

• Engage with Questions: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your work and design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their design process in detail, showcase their portfolio with specific project examples, and articulate how their skills align with the demands of AAA game development and Lighthouse Games' culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UI Artist position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Portfolio Preparation: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date, easily accessible (e.g., via a personal website or dedicated platform), and highlights relevant AAA game UI/UX projects. Focus on quality, process, and impact.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience in game development, specific UI/UX skills, proficiency in relevant software (Adobe Suite, Figma/Sketch), and any experience with Unreal Engine. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common UI/UX design questions, practice presenting your portfolio projects, and prepare to discuss your design rationale and problem-solving approach.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Lighthouse Games' stated mission, any announced projects, and the general landscape of AAA game development in the UK. Understand their commitment to a hybrid work model.

⚠️ 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.