At a Glance
- Tasks: Get hands-on training in crowd simulation for high-end film projects.
- Company: Join Framestore, a leading VFX studio with a creative culture.
- Benefits: Fully paid 8-week traineeship with real-world experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for a Junior Crowd TD contract after successful completion.
- Why this job: Launch your career in VFX and work on exciting film projects.
- Qualifications: 3D Houdini experience and a passion for crowd simulation.
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.
Equal-Opportunity Statement
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 employer: Framestore
Framestore is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring Crowd TDs to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative and innovative environment. With a fully paid 8-week traineeship based in our vibrant Chancery Lane studio, employees benefit from structured training, mentorship from industry experts, and the chance to work on high-end film projects, all while being part of a diverse and inclusive team that values growth and creativity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Crowd TD Traineeship - Launchpad PRO
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former trainees and employees at Framestore. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your Houdini projects and any crowd simulations you've worked on. Make sure it’s easy to navigate and showcases your best work—this is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview! Research common questions for Crowd TD roles and practice your answers. Be ready to discuss your experience with Houdini and how you approach problem-solving in crowd simulations.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our social media for updates and tips on the application process—stay in the loop!
We think you need these skills to ace Crowd TD Traineeship - Launchpad PRO
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to highlight your Houdini experience and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see what you can do, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to customise your application for the Crowd TD Traineeship. Mention specific skills or experiences that align with the role, like your understanding of crowd simulations or problem-solving abilities.
Be Yourself:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for passionate individuals who are eager to learn and grow, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Framestore
✨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. Showing that you have a solid understanding of the software will impress the interviewers.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in past projects, especially those related to simulation or animation. Framestore is looking for candidates who can think creatively and solve problems, so highlight your thought process and solutions.
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
Express your eagerness to learn and grow in the field of Crowd TD. Share any recent tutorials, courses, or personal projects you've undertaken to expand your knowledge. This shows that you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the VFX Pipeline
Understanding how crowds fit into the larger VFX pipeline is crucial. Research Framestore's work and be prepared to discuss how you see yourself contributing to their projects. This will show that you're not just focused on your role but also on the bigger picture.
