Create hand drawn 2D FX as sprite sequences that can be used in 2D/3D packages
Paint overs for conceptual FX design
Final frame paint overs to bring 2d aesthetics into 3d production techniques.
Concept design capability
Design and create FX animation, procedural simulation, dynamic simulation, particle and fluid systems
Provide accurate time estimates for shotwork
Hand off elements to other departments i.e. comp and rendering teams
Present shot work in dailies; attend dailies and other department meetings
Mentor Junior Effects Artists
Data management of shots including clean up
Develop novel approaches for Complex / Stylized FX Setups
Stylized and Photoreal Look development in Mantra / Karma
Requirements
At least 5 years relevant professional VFX experience and at least a college level diploma in computer graphics, fine arts, design, or photography, or related field; OR at least 7 years relevant professional VFX experience in lieu of education.
Demonstrates an excellent aesthetic eye
Exhibits strong teamwork and interdisciplinary thinking
Production pipeline experience
A strong portfolio showcasing fluency in hand-drawn, traditional 2D FX animation
Strong communication and follow-through
Ability to work under pressure and deadlines
Expert level experience with Houdini
Ability to quickly pickup knowledge in other DCC / tools
Skilled in, or eager to master various animation techniques including; procedural animation, keyframing and simulations such as rigid bodies, soft bodies, fluids, particle dynamics etc.
Strong grasp of visual story telling, animation and film making fundamentals, specifically timing, light, colour composition, silhouette, appeal etc.
Basic Nuke Experience
Good knowledge of physics and natural phenomena
Linux and scripting ability in Python
Concept design skills; especially quick sketching or paintovers for FX, lighting, mood, and overall shot direction
As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required.
JoinILM
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Job Posting Segment:
ILM Vancouver
Job Posting Primary Business:
Primary Job Posting Category:
Effects Design
Employment Type:
Full time
Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Date Posted:
2026-05-15
Benefits
Equity / stock options
Additional Information
Job Posting Title:
Senior Effects Technical Director (2D/3D Dev) for Feature Animation - ILM Vancouver
Req ID:
10151240
Job Description:
This role is considered Hybrid, which means the employee will work 2-3 days onsite at a Company designated location and occasionally from home.
Position Summary
The Senior Effects TD operates independently to generate a wide range of FX Elements to match the aesthetics of the project. Utilizing all aspects of Houdini to create highly realistic dynamic simulation to the heavily stylized procedural setups for Feature Animation and Visual Effects projects.
The Senior Effects TD also completes lighting, rendering and moderate-level compositing of complex shots with guidance from their supervisors.
This position requires a strong hand-drawn 2D foundation, along with proven production experience in both 2D FX animation and stylized 3D animation techniques.
Disney · Vancouver, Canada