Senior Effects Technical Director; 2D​/3D Dev Feature Animation - ILM

Senior Effects Technical Director (2D/3D Development) – Feature Animation

Location:

Vancouver, BC, Canada – Hybrid (2–3 days onsite, occasionally remote).

The Senior Effects TD operates independently to generate a wide range of FX elements that match the aesthetic of the project. They utilize all aspects of Houdini to create highly realistic dynamic simulations and stylized procedural set‑ups for Feature Animation and Visual Effects projects. The role also includes lighting, rendering, and moderate‑level compositing of complex shots under supervisory guidance. A strong hand‑drawn 2D foundation and proven production experience in both 2D FX animation and stylized 3D animation techniques are required.

• Create hand‑drawn 2D FX sprite sequences for use in 2D/3D packages.
• Paint overs for conceptual FX design.
• Produce final‑frame paint overs to bring 2D aesthetics into 3D production techniques.
• Design and create FX animation, procedural simulation, dynamic simulation, particle, and fluid systems.
• Provide accurate time estimates for shot work.
• Hand off elements to other departments (compositing and rendering teams).
• Present shot work in dailies and attend department meetings.
• Mentor junior effects artists.
• Manage data for shots, including cleanup.
• Develop novel approaches for complex and stylized FX set‑ups.
• Develop stylized and photoreal look in Mantra/Karma.

• At least 5 years of relevant professional VFX experience with a college‑level diploma in computer graphics, fine arts, design, photography, or a related field; or 7 years of professional VFX experience in lieu of education.
• Excellent aesthetic eye and strong teamwork and interdisciplinary thinking.
• Production pipeline experience.
• Strong portfolio showcasing fluency in hand‑drawn, traditional 2D FX animation.
• Strong communication and follow‑through abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Expert level experience with Houdini.
• Quick learning of other DCC tools.
• Skilled in procedural animation, key‑framing, and simulations such as rigid bodies, soft bodies, fluids, and particle dynamics.
• Strong grasp of visual storytelling, animation, and filmmaking fundamentals—including timing, light, colour, composition, silhouette, and appeal.
• Basic Nuke experience.
• Good knowledge of physics and natural phenomena.
• Linux and Python scripting ability.
• Nice to have: concept design skills and quick sketching or paintovers for FX, lighting, mood, and overall shot direction.

Submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work, along with a current resume.

Hiring range: C $126,700 to C $154,600 per year (based on a 40‑hour work week). Base pay will vary based on equity, region, and experience. A full range of medical, financial, and variable pay or benefits may be offered.