Head of Rendering Research

The Wētā FX Rendering Research department builds sophisticated production rendering technology for high-quality fine frame rendering as well as consistent and interactive visualisations.

We’re looking for a new Head of Rendering Research to lead our high-performing team of engineers and researchers as they develop and evolve our bleeding-edge tools including our in-house off-line renderer Manuka and our real-time GPU-based renderer, Gazebo. The department is also responsible for forward-looking research into rendering techniques for both real-time and off-line rendering and as well as related areas such as denoising.

Reporting to the Wētā FX Chief Technical Officer, the Head of Rendering will bring their proven management experience and their deep understanding of graphics technologies to the department as they guide and mentor crew within their department, as well as help guide how the studio renders each frame.

You’ll collaborate with our Technology and Research and Artistic leadership and work closely with our Rendering Leads and Technical Supervisor in pushing Wētā FX’s rendering capability forward.

What you’ll be doing:

• Lead and mentor the Rendering Research department’s engineers and research crew
• Collaborate with the department’s Technical Supervisor and Leads to maintain a development and research programme for the studio’s rendering tools and associated workflows that not only meets the needs of the studio both today, but looks ahead to the next generation of rendering technologies
• Grow and strengthen an outstanding team passionate about delivering the best technology for Wētā's VFX artists
• Work with Department Managers and other production crew to ensure the Rendering Department is a safe, effective and rewarding place to work

What we’re looking for:

• Previous experience of effectively managing teams, helping them improve in their fields and ensuring they have a stimulating and challenging career path
• You’ll have an understanding of what makes teams successful and what role a manager can play in that process.
• Have a strong background in graphics and rendering, with a deep understanding of both real-time and off-line rendering techniques.
• Good communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to inspire, to persuade and to listen.

You might also have

• A history of working in a computer graphics production environment with complex pipelines

At Wētā FX we celebrate our diversity and believe in creating an environment where all our crew feel welcomed, respected, supported and appreciated. We define ourselves by the quality of our work, and we’re striving to build a workplace experience that’s second to none. Here at Wētā FX we value open minds and encourage our crew to be themselves.

We aim to provide a discrimination-free experience, beginning from the moment you apply for a role with us. If there is anything we can do to make the recruitment process easier, please let us know at recruitment@wetafx.co.nz.

Location: Wellington, NZ