Pipeline TD - CFX
Purpose of the job
The Assets Department and the Character FX (CFX) Department work together to augment the primary performance with realistic motion of fur, hair, cloth, skin and muscle simulations to bring characters and creatures to life. A CFX Pipeline TD works with both these departments to improve, maintain and troubleshoot the CFX pipeline. They design, implement, and manage tools that assist Asset and CFX artists with their daily use of both third party and in-house software and systems. The role requires strong technical and communication skills, as well as a firm understanding of software design, character animation principles, simulation workflows, VFX production workflows, and the tools and technologies used by CFX artists (such as character and simulation rigs, muscle and deformation systems, grooming tools, etc.). CFX Pipeline TDs work alongside peers and supervisors, crafting novel tools, techniques, and workflows, as directed by the Department Heads and the Domain Pipeline Supervisors. They also provide show support as needed for artists using the CFX pipeline and toolset.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
- Ability to work with artists and other TDs to help design and create tools to be integrated into
Digital Domain's existing pipeline. These tools will be created using a combination of custom and commercial Python and C++ APIs.
- Work with CFX and Asset Leads to augment the team’s workflows and toolsets to achieve
specific goals of the project.
- Work directly with artists to troubleshoot and fix problems.
- Craft and update documentation for tools, techniques, and workflows generated.
Education and/or Experience Required
- 3+ years experience as a Technical Director.
- Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics or a related field and/or a combination
of education and experience that would be equivalent to that level of professionalism, problem solving, and analytical skills.
- Proficiency in Python.
- Proficiency with Houdini’s HDK / OTLs / VEX preferred.
- Familiarity with rigging and simulation in Houdini preferred.
- Familiarity with creating GUIs with PySide/PyQt preferred.
- Familiarity with USD preferred.
- Experience with Maya, Solaris, and/or Nuke a plus.
Working Conditions and Environment/Physical Demands
- Office working environment.
- Hours for this position are based on normal working hours but will require extra hours pending
production needs.
- Walking/bending/sitting.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities associated with it. Digital Domain 3.0, Inc management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs. Compensation Range: $30 per hour to $65 per hour. The posted range describes the minimum to maximum range for this job description in the state of California and the provinces of British Columbia. The range is posted in accordance with applicable law. The range for this same position may be lower or higher in markets outside of California or the provinces of British Columbia. Offered base pay is contingent on internal equity, as well as the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other factors. As an equal employment opportunity employer, Digital Domain commits to a work environment free from unlawful discrimination where all employees are treated equally with dignity, respect and on the basis of individual experience and potential, without regard to any personal classifications protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances. Diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of DD's values as a company. Our goal is to increase the attraction, retention, and advancement of women, persons of color, indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, individuals who identify as LGBTQ2S and all under-represented groups in skilled occupations within the entertainment and technology sectors. Building a diverse and inclusive workplace is critical to the success of our business and the well-being of our people. It drives innovation, new ideas, and most importantly, a safe and collaborative environment for you. We invite you to join us on this journey to help us better represent the world we live in, at the places we work, and to create a space where each individual feels comfortable bringing their whole self to work.