Senior Effects Technical Director (VFX)

TL;DR

Senior Effects Technical Director (VFX): Creating high-quality 2D and 3D FX elements for feature animation and visual effects projects with an accent on stylized procedural setups and dynamic simulations. Focus on designing complex FX animations, developing novel stylized setups, and integrating hand-drawn 2D aesthetics into 3D production.

Location: Hybrid (Must be based in Vancouver, Canada)

Salary: C$126,700 – C$154,600 per year

Company

hirify.global (ILM) is the world's leading effects facility, creating groundbreaking visual effects for hundreds of feature films and immersive cinema.

What you will do

• Create hand-drawn 2D FX as sprite sequences and perform paint-overs for conceptual FX design.
• Design and implement FX animation, procedural simulations, and particle/fluid systems.
• Develop stylized and photoreal looks using Mantra and Karma.
• Mentor junior effects artists and provide accurate time estimates for shotwork.
• Collaborate with compositing and rendering teams to deliver final shot elements.
• Develop novel approaches for complex and stylized FX setups.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of professional VFX experience (or 7 years in lieu of a degree).
• Expert-level proficiency with Houdini.
• Strong portfolio showcasing fluency in hand-drawn traditional 2D FX animation.
• Scripting ability in Python and experience working in a Linux environment.
• Basic experience with Nuke and a strong grasp of filmmaking fundamentals (timing, light, composition).
• Work format: Hybrid (2-3 days onsite in Vancouver, Canada)

Nice to have

• Concept design skills, specifically quick sketching or paintovers for FX, lighting, and mood.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to work at a legendary studio known for setting the global standard in visual effects.
• Hybrid work arrangement combining onsite collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Professional growth through mentoring and working on high-profile feature animation projects.
• Comprehensive medical and financial benefits provided by The Walt Disney Company.