Lead Remote VFX Technical Director

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Remote work

Prestigious projects

Global collaboration

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Remote VFX Technical Director for a fully remote role with an acclaimed international studio specialized in high-end visual effects for film and TV. You will lead a team of TDs and artists, architecting pipelines from concept to delivery and ensuring integration across renderers and platforms.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in VFX direction, deep knowledge of FX simulation, rendering, and compositing, and strong leadership for remote collaboration on major global

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in CS/Engineering/FA or related field.
• 8+ years in VFX technical direction with leadership experience.
• Proficiency in Maya or Houdini and renderers (Arnold, V-Ray, Redshift).
• Strong programming in Python, C++, MEL, and VEX.
• Deep knowledge of FX simulation software (Houdini, Maya FX) and compositing (Nuke).
• Experience with render management systems and asset delivery pipelines.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and optimize VFX pipelines, tools, and scripts.
• Lead and mentor a team of VFX TDs and artists.
• Collaborate with VFX Supervisors and Art Directors to meet technical requirements.
• Develop complex FX simulations (fluids, fire, smoke, destruction, particles).
• Troubleshoot pipeline issues and implement robust solutions.
• Write custom scripts and shaders to improve workflow efficiency.
• Ensure asset integration across renderers and platforms.
• Stay updated on emerging VFX technologies and real-time rendering.
• Conduct technical reviews and provide feedback on artist work.
• Manage asset delivery and integration for diverse renderers and platforms.

Skills

Python

C++

MEL

VEX

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Fine Arts, or related field

Tools

Maya

Houdini

Arnold

V-Ray

Redshift

Nuke

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an acclaimed international studio specializing in high‑end visual effects for film and television, is looking for a Lead Remote VFX Technical Director to join their fully remote team. This pivotal role involves developing and implementing complex visual effects pipelines, tools, and workflows that push the boundaries of digital artistry. You will lead a team of talented TD's and artists, ensuring seamless integration of effects from concept to final delivery. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to major global productions while enjoying the flexibility of remote work. The ideal candidate is a seasoned technical artist with a deep understanding of FX simulation, rendering, and compositing, coupled with strong leadership and problem‑solving capabilities, capable of thriving in a remote, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and optimize VFX pipelines, tools, and scripts for various production departments (e.g., FX, animation, lighting).
• Lead and mentor a team of VFX Technical Directors and artists, fostering collaboration and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with VFX Supervisors and Art Directors to define technical solutions and ensure creative vision is met.
• Develop and implement complex FX simulations, including fluids, fire, smoke, destruction, and particle systems.
• Troubleshoot technical issues across the VFX pipeline, providing timely and effective solutions.
• Write custom scripts and shaders to enhance workflow efficiency and achieve specific artistic outcomes.
• Ensure the efficient and robust integration of assets and elements within the production pipeline.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and methodologies in VFX and real‑time rendering.
• Conduct technical reviews and provide feedback on artist work.
• Manage asset delivery and integration, ensuring compatibility with various renderers and platforms.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Fine Arts, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in VFX technical direction, with a proven track record in leading teams.
• Expert proficiency in at least one major 3D software package (e.g., Maya, Houdini) and industry‑standard renderers (e.g., Arnold, V‑Ray, Redshift).
• Strong programming and scripting skills in languages such as Python, C++, MEL, and VEX.
• In‑depth knowledge of FX simulation software (e.g., Houdini, Maya FX) and principles.
• Experience with compositing software (e.g., Nuke) and render management systems.
• Excellent understanding of anatomy, physics, and artistic principles relevant to VFX.
• Strong problem‑solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, crucial for remote collaboration.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire a technical team in a remote setting.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and the opportunity to work on prestigious international film and television projects. Our client provides significant opportunities for professional growth and learning, access to advanced software and hardware, and a supportive team environment. You will collaborate with world‑class talent and contribute to the cutting edge of visual effects artistry from the comfort of your home. The company values work‑life balance and offers flexible working arrangements suitable for a global remote workforce.