2D​/3D Senior Effects Developer​/Technical Director, Feature Animation - ILM

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

This role is currently an Expression of Interest and may open in the future. Candidates interested may submit their resume for future consideration.

The Senior Effects Technical Director (TD) will operate independently to create a wide range of FX elements that match the aesthetics of feature animation projects. Utilizing all aspects of Houdini, this role produces realistic dynamic simulations and heavily stylized procedural setups. The TD may also complete lighting, rendering, and moderate‑level compositing of complex shots with guidance from supervisors. A strong hand‑drawn 2D foundation and proven production experience in both 2D FX animation and stylized 3D animation are required.

• Create hand‑drawn 2D FX as 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.
• Provide concept design capability.
• 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; attend dailies and other department meetings.
• Mentor junior effects artists.
• Manage data for shots, including cleanup.
• Develop novel approaches for complex and stylized FX setups.
• Develop stylized and photoreal look in Mantra/Karma.

• At least 5 years of relevant professional VFX experience and at least a college‑level diploma in computer graphics, fine arts, design, or photography, or related field; OR at least 7 years of relevant professional VFX experience in lieu of education.
• Excellent aesthetic eye.
• Strong teamwork and interdisciplinary thinking.
• Experience with production pipelines.
• Strong portfolio showcasing fluency in hand‑drawn traditional 2D FX animation.
• Strong communication and follow‑through skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Expert level experience with Houdini.
• Ability to quickly pick up knowledge of other DCC tools.
• Skilled in or aspiring to master animation techniques such as procedural animation, keyframing, and simulations (rigid bodies, soft bodies, fluids, particle dynamics, etc.).
• Strong grasp of visual storytelling, animation and filmmaking fundamentals, specifically timing, light, colour composition, silhouette, and appeal.
• Basic Nuke experience.
• Good knowledge of physics and natural phenomena.
• Linux and scripting ability in Python.
• Nice to have:
  • Concept design skills; especially quick sketching or paintovers for FX, lighting, mood, and overall shot direction.

Application Requirements: As part of your application, please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required.

Compensation range:
Canadian $126,700 – $154,600 per year (based on a 40‑hour work week). Pay may vary based on equity, location, experience, and other factors. Full range of medical, financial, and variable pay or benefits may be offered depending on the level and position.