FX Artist / TD

Description

Mavericks VFX is a three-time Emmy-nominated VFX firm based on Toronto, Canada. Working as a collection of filmmakers—drawn from a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and talents—we create outstanding visual effects for film and TV.

We are proud of our family-vibe, but rely on our strong pipeline and learning from our seasoned artists to produce world-class visual effects. An excellent health and dental plan, complimentary gym memberships to Hone Fitness (in our building), beautiful offices, Cocktail Thursdays, a Softball Team, Blue Jays games, and a multitude of (non-mandatory) company outings…these are some of the ways that Mavericks VFX tries to give back to our employees for their stellar work and dedication. If Mavericks’ culture resonates with you and you are seeking to be a part of an exciting team-based environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Work closely with VFX Supervisors and Leads to determine the best approach to solve fx challenges and develop final look in shot development
• Work with other TDs, art directors and designers to create photo-real effects and physically accurate simulations
• Accurately interpret concept art and design from the Art Department
• Use and understand 3D / 2D applications such as Houdini, Maya, and Nuke
• Provide input regarding tools and interfaces to improve throughput
• Producing a final overall look that far exceeds client expectations.
• Create dynamics and simulation effects using rigid body, particle, fluid, pyro, cloth, fur and hair systems.
• Rendering FX elements or assisting in exporting to another renderer.
• Work within a collaborative team environment, contributing efficient design approaches for challenging FX shots.
• Regularly submit WIPs and take direction from CG and VFX Supervisors
• Demonstrate a broad range of FX abilities in a collaborative environment to conceptualize and create the overall look, attitude and style of the FX
• Interpret verbal direction and visual reference to understand the story context and aesthetic objectives of visual effects
• R&D and implement FX, run shots: particles, rigid body, fluids, large and small scale destruction, smoke, dust, lightning, fire, storms, explosions, etc.
• Support integration of effects into other department’s workflows and collaborate with them to ensure deliverables meet requirements
• Meet project deadlines and milestones, as set by the Production department and the Supervisors
• Provide suggestions and recommendations on technique and elements in the context of the scene
• Actively promote and communicate sound solutions to technical and creative issues
• Maintain and communicate a strong knowledge of innovative FX animation technologies
• Participate in the development of department procedures: workflows, toolsets, best practices
• Maintain positive, supportive and collaborative team dynamics

Requirements

• The Candidate would be Toronto-based (or Canada-based willing to relocate) and legally allowed to work in Canada
• 3+ years of production experience using Houdini in film/commercials (knowledge of Autodesk Maya is a plus)

• Knowledge of particles, fluids (smoke, dust, water), fracturing, MEL/Python
• Thorough knowledge of VRay (Mantra a plus)
• Follow creative & technical briefs with regard to the production schedule and set milestones
• Work with animation, lighting & compositing as necessary in order to meet FX animation objectives
• A demo reel showing a strong sense of composition, light and colour
• Excellent communication skills and technical knowledge
• Must have the ability to work autonomously and meet tight deadlines
• Strong communication skills are critical
• Candidate must be able to work within a team environment