The FX TD 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.

Primary Responsibilities and Accountabilities

Designs and creates FX animation, procedural simulation, dynamic simulation, particle and fluid systems

Light complex/multiple creatures (hairy or furry creatures) and elements

Can set-up and wrangle heavy particle effects and enormous crowd shots

Excellent pipeline scripting ability

Solid compositing ability, can wrangle blue-screen extractions, working knowledge 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

Create feature film quality effects using Houdini
Coaching and mentoring artists in new techniques and efficiencies

Key Peers or Relationships

Generalist Department, Production Manager, Compositing Department

Job Requirements

Education / Experience

Proven production experience or feature film experience with effects simulation work

Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering or computer graphics
or equivalent work experience

Demo reel required

Required Skills / Competencies

Ability to work with competency, energy and enthusiasm within a team environment with minimal 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

Preferred Skills / Competencies:

Linux and scripting ability in Python

Experience in MEL

Technical Skills:
Advanced simulation experiencewith either Houdini, Maya, XSI, 3DS Max or other software, and the ability to write expressions
C++ skills