Software Engineer, AI\_ML Character Animation
About Digital Domain
At Digital Domain, we are developing industry-leading character technology and tools. In works such as Fantastic Four, Supergirl, Avengers, She-Hulk, and Godzilla vs Kong. We have created photorealistic digital actors that have stood alongside real actors. We are looking for software developers to help us further this technology. Our DNA comprises equal parts innovation, technology, and storytelling. That philosophy has driven the creation of stunning visuals for hundreds of features, commercials, episodic and streaming programs, music videos, and mixed-reality projects. The company has been at the forefront of research, development, and innovation for more than three decades. These initiatives are infused into the fabric of the studio’s diverse services and operations.
Role
The ideal candidate will have an understanding of building tools that utilize machine learning for character animation. Past work in a visual effects or gaming environment is a plus. This position will support and improve Digital Domain's award winning facial capture and animation workflow, Masquerade, which includes a set of tools and algorithms based on machine learning and traditional approaches in facial motion capture, retargeting, and facial rigging. You will work closely with the facial rigging supervisor, take ownership of the toolset and workflows, and help with new technological advancements in the facial development team. Past work in a visual effects or gaming environment is a plus.
Core Responsibilities
- Build rigging and animation tools like advanced deformers, muscle and skin simulation, multi-dimensional
interpolation, blend-shape tools, simulation and more…
- Design, implement, and support C++ and Python tools, either standalone or for Maya or Houdini, that relate to
character animation.
- The developer will be expected to: gather requirements from the artists, research and develop a plan of attack,
implement a stand-alone program or plug-in (using C++ or Python), document the code and produce a user manual, and release and support the tool.
- The ability to interact with non-technical people and both understand what they want, and get them to
understand what you are doing, is necessary
- Experience with any or all of character animation, real-time processing and/or GPU programming is not
required but would be a plus
Qualifications
- Degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or equivalent industry experience.
- Advanced proficiency in C++ and Python development.
- Minimum 4 years of R&D or tools development experience within the VFX, animation, or gaming industries.
- Strong theoretical and practical background in computer vision, computer graphics, and motion capture
principles.
- Proven ability to work autonomously and manage complex technical tasks with strong communication skills.
- Technical expertise or strong familiarity with:
○ Machine Learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, scikit-learn, NumPy). ○ Geometry processing, multi-view reconstruction, and sparse data interpolation. ○ Industry standard APIs (e.g., OpenCV, Maya API, Houdini API). Work-Life Balance
- This position offers the flexibility of being fully remote. However, you need to reside full-time in British
Columbia. For those who prefer an in-office environment, we have locations in Vancouver and can accommodate those preferences.
- At Digital Domain, we prioritize the well-being of our software engineers and believe in maintaining a healthy
work-life balance.
- Standard work hours range from 40 to 50 hours per week. While there may be occasional requirements for
additional hours in the evenings or on weekends to perform maintenance outside of production hours, these instances are typically planned during scheduled downtime. 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: $60,000 annually to $130,000 annually. The posted range describes the minimum to maximum range for this job description in the state of California and the provinces of British Columbia and Quebec. 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 and Quebec. 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.