Effects Technical Director

3 Weeks ago • 3-5 Years • Technical Art • Animation • $67,000 PA - $169,300 PA

Job Summary

Job Description

The Effects Technical Director at ILM generates FX animation, procedural simulation, dynamic simulation, particle and fluid systems for feature film visual effects. Responsibilities include lighting, rendering, and moderate-level compositing of complex shots. This role requires proficiency in Houdini, Maya, 3DS Max, or similar software, along with strong scripting (Python, C++), compositing (Nuke), and shader writing skills. The ideal candidate will possess excellent problem-solving abilities, a collaborative spirit, and a strong aesthetic eye. They should be able to work both independently and as part of a team to deliver high-quality work within deadlines.
Must have:
  • FX animation, simulation (particle, fluid, dynamic)
  • Houdini/Maya/3DS Max proficiency
  • Strong scripting (Python, C++)
  • Compositing (Nuke)
  • Shader writing (procedural, volumetric)
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Teamwork and communication
Good to have:
  • Linux experience
  • MEL scripting
  • Plugin development
Perks:
  • Bonus
  • Long-term incentives
  • Full medical, financial benefits

Job Details

Job Summary:

The Effects Technical Director generates FX animation, procedural simulation, dynamic simulation, particle and fluid systems for feature film visual effects. They are responsible for lighting, rendering and moderate-level compositing of complex shots with guidance from their supervisors.
 

What You’ll Do

  • Designs and creates FX animation, procedural simulation, dynamic simulation, particle and fluid systems
  • Responsible for setting-up and wrangle heavy particle effects and enormous crowd shots
  • Excellent pipeline scripting ability
  • Solid compositing ability, can wrangle blue-screen extractions, working understanding of Nuke
  • Can write plug-ins, debug simulations and write set up and surface shaders with proficiency
  • Can write/hack procedural surface shaders and volumetric shaders with proficiency
  • Can animate moderate objects with proficiency
  • Can pick-up new techniques quickly and easily and can debug just about anything
  • Sets a standard for all Technical Directors in continually raising the bar for speed, quality of work and adaptability


What We’re Looking For

  • 3-5+ years production experience or feature film experience with effects simulation work
  • Demo reel required
  • Ability to work with competency, energy and enthusiasm within a team environment with gentle supervision to complete a shot.
  • Exhibits excellent listening and communication skills, able to receive direction and criticism
  • Excellent presentation/communication skills in dailies/shot review by clearly and briefly outlining what has been accomplished and what next should be addressed in the shot
  • Engages in the creative process without ego, and accepts all final decisions with a positive and supportive attitude.
  • Demonstrates an excellent aesthetic eye, anticipating potential problems and using knowledge of how to use the tools to achieve the desired look.
  • Demonstrates superb problem-solving skills and takes the initiative to offer ideas and suggestions.
  • Prioritizes tasks and manages time very well
  • Advanced simulation experience with either Houdini, Maya, 3DS Max or other software, and the ability to write expressions
  • C++ skills
  • Nice to have:
    • Linux and scripting ability in Python
    • Experience in MEL

JoinILM


The hiring range for this position in San Francisco, CA is $67,000 to $169,300 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

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