Real-Time Rendering Developer

Position Overview

SideFX is seeking an exceptional software developer to join its Toronto-based real-time rendering R&D team. Our 3D viewport renderer performs a wide range of roles, such as visualizing simulations, displaying massive datasets, rendering final frames, doing fast scene layout, and modelling interactively. We are using the Vulkan API to push the boundaries of real-time rendering that our clients often require. 

As a member of the real-time rendering group, you will be working with some of the brightest minds in the industry and interacting with an outstanding artist community. Everyone here shares a drive for excellence and a passion for innovation. Providing digital artists with the most advanced tools for their craft is, and has always been, our single focus. 

What you will be working on

• Advance the viewport rendering engine using Vulkan, with new GPU features such as ray tracing and compute shaders.
• Develop, maintain and support our existing real-time viewport renderer and its Hydra delegate.
• Collaborate with other R&D staff, technical directors, and artists to ensure the rendering technology provides the best solutions for interactivity, render quality, and visualization.
• Other duties as assigned.

What you need to be successful

• Computer Science degree or equivalent industry experience, with a record of academic and professional excellence.
• Industry experience with the Vulkan API.
• Strong knowledge of C++ programming in a multi-threaded environment.
• Experience with advanced real-time/GPU rendering algorithms and techniques, such as microfacet shading models and ray tracing.
• Knowledge of OpenGL rendering and GLSL shader authoring.
• History of delivering innovative, robust and scalable code.
• Ability to learn independently, use solid judgment, and develop at a fast pace.
• Extensive experience in algorithm optimization for memory and performance.
• Uncanny ability to uncover and remove bugs in a large software base.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.

Not required but great to have

• Knowledge of Metal, Qt, and Python.
• Knowledge of OpenCL.

Sample R&D Projects

• Help refine the Vulkan-based architecture of Houdini’s next-generation viewport renderer.
• Leverage Vulkan’s ray tracing capabilities for FX such as occlusion and subsurface scattering.
• Optimize interactivity with massive datasets.
• Optimize simulation update time with compute/graphics interoperability.
• Redesign visualization of simulation attributes.
• Enhance area and environment lighting by means of ray tracing.
• Ensure optimal functioning of the viewport renderer as a USD Hydra delegate.

Company Profile

For over thirty years, SideFX has been providing artists with procedural 3D animation, VFX and World Building tools designed to create the highest-quality results.
                                                                                                       
We are passionate about what our customers do because our roots are in production, both as artists and as pioneering technical innovators. SideFX has been recognized by the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Science several times for our flagship software product Houdini, and our breakthrough procedurally-based technology.
                                                                                                       
Long used by the world’s top film and TV studios, in recent years Houdini has transformed content creation workflows at hundreds of game studios, from the largest AAA to the smallest Indie. Our customers include CD Projekt Red, Rockstar Games, Electronic Arts and many more. Houdini has played a vital part in hit video games like Horizon Zero Dawn, Spiderman, Control and the Ghost Recon series.

What We Value Most:

• Decency: We treat everyone with honesty, kindness and empathy. We give generously of our time and knowledge.
• Relationships: We build collaborative bonds—with our co-workers and clients—based on trust and respect. Our diverse team gives us broader perspectives.
• Dedication: We take pride and ownership in our work, always trying to do our best. We are devoted to the well-being and success of each other and our clients.
• Excellence: We continually improve ourselves, our work and our company, striving towards excellence in all that we do.

Our Employees Receive:

• Hybrid Work option - Combining time spent collaborating in person at our offices with remote work for added flexibility.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation and floater days to relax and re-energize (starting at 4 weeks).
• Year-End Company Shutdown and Long Weekend Early departures to add to the excitement.
• Health insurance coverage: Robust Health insurance coverage for you and your dependents.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP); because sometimes we need a bit of extra support.
• Retirement Plan with company matched contributions.
• Comprehensive Long Service Award program, providing both a monetary reward and additional days off.
• A highly competitive bonus structure.
• A generous sick time entitlement to care for yourself and your loved ones.

Why Join SideFX?

• Because you want to be part of a unique experience and winning team that has won an Oscar and an Emmy (Cool, right?)
• Because you want to be part of an industry-leading company that is constantly mindfully growing.
• Because you want to work with some of the most talented people in the industry on a ground-breaking product.
• Because you want to work with people from all around the world.
• Because you want to be part of an exciting and fun industry.
• Because you want to join and add to a positive, supportive and respected company culture.
• Because you want your job to be GREAT!

Not the right role for you at this time? Take a look at all of our job postings on our Careers page or join our SideFX Talent Community for future career opportunities! 

Location

Our transit-friendly head office location, directly adjacent to Union Station in the heart of downtown Toronto, is open-concept with a relaxed style that includes casual dress and wraparound views from the 14th floor. 

SideFX is committed to inclusion and diversity. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply. Accommodation will be provided to candidates with disabilities upon request.