Overview

Purpose of the job:

The FX Technical Director works with peers and supervisors to craft novel systems, tools, techniques, and procedures to aid the execution of projects, and advance the capabilities of the facility. Effects needs range from rigid body and particle dynamics, volume modeling and rendering, procedural geometry generation, and fluid dynamics.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

• Design and create systems, tools, and assets using a combination of proprietary and third-party software
• Integrate and support new tools into the facility’s existing pipeline
• Collaborate with Supervisors and FX Leads to determine the project’s needs
• Work closely with FX Artists to troubleshoot and fix problems arising in the course of production
• Craft and update documentation for assets, tools, techniques, and workflows
• Remain informed of current technologies
• Take direction from FX Supervisors and Leads, as well as provide guidance and mentorship to other FX TDs and FX Artists

Qualifications:

Education and/or Experience Required:

• 3+ years experience as a Technical Director for Feature Films
• Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or equivalent work experience
• Extensive experience designing effects assets and systems for general use in production by FX Artists
• Expert knowledge of any/ all of the following; rigid body and particle dynamics, volume modeling and rendering, procedural geometry generation, and fluid dynamics
• Strong understanding of physical dynamics and natural phenomena
• Production experience using Houdini (including building Houdini OTLs) and/ or Naiad is required
• Experience with one or more other professional software packages such as Maya, 3D Studio Max or Real Flow is a plus
• Practical knowledge of Python required, knowledge of PyQt is a plus
• Proficiency in applicable domain specific programming languages and C++ APIs, including HScript, Mel, HDK or the Maya SDK is desired