At a Glance
- Tasks: Join an 8-week traineeship to master crowd simulation for film projects.
- Company: Framestore, a leading VFX studio known for innovation and creativity.
- Benefits: Fully paid traineeship with hands-on training and potential job opportunities.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our workplace culture.
- Why this job: Gain real-world experience and learn from industry experts in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 3D Houdini experience and a passion for crowd simulation required.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Please note: Due to project timelines and onboarding requirements, we can only consider applicants who already have the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available for this traineeship.
Framestore is excited to launch Launchpad PRO: Crowd TD, a fully paid 8-week traineeship designed to give emerging artists hands‑on training in large‑scale crowd simulation for high‑end Film & Episodic Studio projects.
Across the programme, trainees will complete:
- 4 weeks of structured classroom training, learning core Crowd TD principles, Houdini workflows, motion behaviours, and simulation fundamentals.
- 4 weeks of on‑the‑job learning with Framestore’s Crowd team, contributing to real internal briefs and pipeline tasks.
Those who successfully complete the programme will be considered for a Junior Crowd TD contract within our London Film team.
What You’ll Learn
Guided by experienced Crowd TDs, Supervisors and Leads, you’ll gain exposure to:
- Creating and running crowd simulations using Houdini.
- Building and customising Agent Definitions.
- Motion variation, locomotion cycles and behavioural systems.
- Integrating crowds into the VFX pipeline (Animation, Rigging, Mocap, Lighting).
- Creative problem‑solving for large‑scale scene challenges.
- Real‑world shot workflows, troubleshooting, iteration and delivery.
- Proprietary tools and crowd‑specific production techniques.
- How crowds work within a global, award‑winning VFX pipeline.
This programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and day‑to‑day production work, preparing trainees for the demands of a Crowd TD role on feature films.
This traineeship is aimed at aspiring Crowd TDs with:
- A CG or technical generalist foundation
- Beginning–intermediate Houdini skills, ideally with an interest in Houdini Crowds.
- An understanding of basic animation principles and motion.
- Curiosity about simulation‑based workflows.
- Problem‑solving instincts and a strong willingness to learn.
- An interest in procedural systems (particles, agents, behaviours).
- Some familiarity with Python or VEX is a bonus, but not required.
This is not a beginner’s programme. Applicants should already have 3D Houdini experience.
Programme Dates
The next intake will begin mid‑February 2026 and will be primarily on‑site at our Chancery Lane studio in London.
Application Process
To apply, please complete the linked application form or submit your resume and portfolio with the subject line: Launchpad PRO: Crowd TD Application.
Framestore is an equal‑opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Crowd TD Traineeship - Launchpad PRO in London employer: Framestore Limited
Framestore is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring Crowd TDs to gain hands-on experience in a vibrant and creative environment at our Chancery Lane studio in London. With a fully paid 8-week traineeship, employees benefit from structured training alongside industry experts, fostering both personal and professional growth while contributing to high-end film projects. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to thrive in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Crowd TD Traineeship - Launchpad PRO in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in shape! Make sure it showcases your best work, especially any Houdini projects. We want to see your skills in action, so include a variety of simulations and crowd-related work if you have it.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former trainees and professionals in the industry. We can’t stress enough how valuable connections can be, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice or insights about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview! Brush up on your knowledge of crowd simulation and Houdini workflows. We recommend practising common interview questions and even doing mock interviews with friends to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to apply directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Crowd TD Traineeship - Launchpad PRO in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your 3D Houdini experience in your application. We want to see what you've got, so include any relevant projects or simulations you've worked on that showcase your skills!
Tailor Your Resume:Don’t just send a generic resume! Tailor it to the Crowd TD role by emphasising your technical generalist foundation and any Houdini skills you have. We love seeing how your background fits with what we do.
Craft a Compelling Portfolio:Your portfolio is your chance to shine! Include examples of your work that demonstrate your understanding of crowd simulation and animation principles. Make it visually appealing and easy for us to navigate.
Follow Application Instructions:Be sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Submit your resume and portfolio through our website with the correct subject line. We appreciate attention to detail and it shows you’re serious about joining us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Framestore Limited
✨Know Your Houdini Basics
Make sure you brush up on your Houdini skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with crowd simulations and any projects you've worked on. This will show your passion and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in past projects, especially those related to simulation workflows. Framestore values creative problem-solving, so demonstrating this ability can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the VFX Pipeline
Understanding how crowds integrate into the VFX pipeline is crucial. Do some research on the different stages of production and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to each phase.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the traineeship and the Crowd team at Framestore. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it makes for a more engaging conversation!
