Overview

POSITION PURPOSE

Senior FX TDs will act as an example to and mentor junior artists. They are responsible for delivering high quality work for shows within the assigned time frame. They will apply notes provided by the FX Supervisors/FX Leads. In addition, they will assist junior artists regarding techniques, and approaches for FX. They will guide junior artists through the workflow process within the department to explain how their work connects to other departments.

Senior FX TDs will proactively seek solutions with FX Leads and members of other departments. They are expected to communicate clearly ensuring they receive data to resolve shot related issues. Senior FX TDs will work with their Supervisor and Lead to implement technical and creative solutions to shows.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Create multiple types of realistic and believable effects (ie. rigid body and particle dynamics, procedural geometry generation, fluid dynamics and cloth simulations) with minimal supervision and within the studio pipeline
Address your Leads critiques and comments while providing solutions to aesthetic issues to improve the shot; and maintaining a quality level as described by your Supervisor/ Lead
Provide dailied versions for assigned tasks in an agreed upon time by your Supervisor/ Lead
Attend dailies, reviews, and team meetings as required
Work with FX team to maintain shot continuity; as well as, support other departments (Lighting, Compositing, etc) to ensure information is communicated up and down the pipeline
Provide input regarding existing tools and interfaces for FX pipeline and provide solutions for technical problems that may arise in a shot, sequence or with a film format
Assist members of the FX team to learn and grow their skills to meet their career aspirations by providing informal feedback, tips and tricks, and encouragement
Estimate the time required for tasks and provide accurate progress reports

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

6 years+ of feature film/TV production experience as an FX artist in Houdini
Higher education in related fields is a plus

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Technical skills

Strong understanding of HDA’s in Houdini and provide user setup support
Strong understanding of VEX scripting language. Python is a bonus
Ability to build large FX systems with multiple dependencies and elements
Good understanding of image composition and creative story point solutions

Core skills

Ability to troubleshoot and deal with competing priorities
Excellent problem solver who can focus on detail, while maintaining the whole picture
The ability to work alongside, communicate with, and understand the requirements of all departments
Excellent time management and communication skills