Pipeline Technical Director (DNEG Animation)

DNEG; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

DNEG Animation seeks a Pipeline Technical Director to ensure the smooth operation of tools and workflows in their award-winning animation projects. This role involves providing technical support, developing new tools in Python, and collaborating with artists to enhance workflow efficiency. Successful candidates will need a strong technical background in Animation and Visual Effects, complemented by excellent problem-solving capabilities and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in Feature Animation or Visual Effects studios is required.
• Excellent Python and Linux skills essential.
• Solid understanding of production pipelines and workflows in Animation and VFX.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for artists across multiple shows.
• Collaborate closely with project management for timely delivery.
• Participate in training and mentoring of Assistant TDs.

Skills

Python

Linux

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

Degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics or related field

Tools

Maya

Houdini

Katana

Nuke

Job description

DNEG Animation is a world-class studio that creates high-end animated feature films and episodic content for audiences all over the world. We’re growing our global crews to help deliver an exciting slate of major new projects. Join a team where the only house style is quality and work alongside some of the best talent in the business to help bring iconic characters and unique worlds to life. From complex graphic novel adaptations to beautifully-stylized films, each project is driven by the team's passion for the craft of animation and every role plays a huge part in the success of our shows.

As a Pipeline Technical Director (Pipeline TD), you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the tools, software and workflows used on our award-winning Feature Animation shows. You will be providing face-to-face technical support and assistance to artists, as well as developing new tools - predominantly in Python - to meet the specific show requirements.

Our talented Pipeline TDs are highly technical and demonstrate an aptitude for creative problem solving. You will be regularly required to:

Key Responsibilities / Job Duties

Provide technical advice and support for artists across multiple shows
Trouble shoot, resolve or escalate show support requests
Provide support and mentorship to Assistant TDs in handling the support requests
Contribute to development projects, code reviews and production testing to continually improve the pipeline efficiency and artist workflows for DNEG Animation
Attend regular development sprints and sprint demos to present your progress to your peers and stakeholders
Collaborate closely with the project management team to deliver development projects on time
Collaborate with project leadership to gather and action feedback from stakeholders on development tasks
Deliver clear and detailed documentation to support the adoption and change management process
Actively participate in the training and mentoring of Assistant TDs
Under the guidance of the pipeline architect and pipeline supervisors, participate in the scoping and leading of development projects following the development roadmap
Support the pipeline supervisors in setting up shows and manage show configurations

Job Requirements / Must Haves

Previous experience in Feature Animation or Visual Effect studios or related industry
Excellent Python and Linux skills
Solid understanding of production pipelines, workflows and tools commonly used in Animation and VFX.
Experience in developing tools for DCC packages such as Maya, Houdini Katana or Nuke
Excellent communication skills to interact with technical developers and non-technical artists

Additional Skills / Nice to Have

A degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics or other related field
Experience with different programming languages
Familiarity with standard software engineering principles and methods
Experience with build systems and source control systems
Experience with data and scene description formats, e.g. USD, Alembic, AAF
Experience with Rendering software, e.g. Renderman, Arnold
Experience with procedural shading languages, e.g. OSL, RSL, VEX

About You

Critical eye for details
Proactive
Team orientated
Adaptable
Calm under pressure
Strong communication abilities