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

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

Req :

The Senior Effects TD operates independently to generate a wide range of FX elements to match the aesthetics of the project. They use Houdini to create highly realistic dynamic simulations as well as heavily stylized procedural set‑ups for feature animation and visual effects projects. The TD also completes lighting, rendering, and moderate‑level compositing of complex shots under guidance from supervisors. 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 as sprite sequences for use in 2D/3D packages
• Paint overs for conceptual FX design
• Final frame paint overs to bring 2D aesthetics into 3D production techniques
• 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 such as compositing and rendering teams
• Present shot work in dailies and attend department meetings
• Mentor junior effects artists
• Manage shot data including clean up
• Develop novel approaches for complex or stylized FX setups
• Develop stylized and photoreal look in Mantra/Karma

• At least 5 years relevant professional VFX experience and a college‑level diploma in computer graphics, fine arts, design, photography, or a related field; or at least 7 years of relevant professional VFX experience in lieu of education
• Excellent aesthetic eye
• Strong teamwork and interdisciplinary thinking
• Production pipeline experience
• Strong portfolio showcasing fluency in hand‑drawn, traditional 2D FX animation
• Strong communication and follow‑through
• Ability to work under pressure and deadlines
• Expert level experience with Houdini
• Quick learner of other DCC tools
• Skilled in or eager to master procedural animation, keyframing and simulations such as rigid bodies, soft bodies, fluids, particle dynamics, etc.
• Strong grasp of visual storytelling, animation and filmmaking fundamentals, specifically timing, light, colour composition, silhouette, appeal, etc.
• Basic Nuke experience
• Good knowledge of physics and natural phenomena
• Linux and scripting ability in Python
• Nice to have:

The hiring range for this position in Vancouver is C $126,700 to C $154,600 per year based on a 40‑hour work week. Pay will vary by internal equity and the candidate’s qualifications. Benefits include medical, financial, and other variable pay or benefits, depending on the position offered.