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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and create stunning looks for CG objects and scenes in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join ILM, a leader in innovative filmmaking and visual effects.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that shapes the future of visual storytelling.
- Qualifications: Experience in Look Development, strong knowledge of VFX pipeline, and proficiency in Katana.
- Other info: Submit a demo reel to showcase your talent and creativity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are looking for Look Development Technical Directors who reflect the creative talent, collaborative mindset and passion for great filmmaking that defines ILM. The Look Development TD is responsible for producing high-quality lookdev and shading for our CG assets, needing only initial direction and guidance from their Lead or Supervisor.
What You'll Do
- Design and create the look of computer generated objects and scenes
- Work closely with Lighting Supervisors and CG Supervisors to determine the best approach to solving CG challenges when developing the final look
- Create efficient shader setups in order to optimise render farm usage
- Manage and maintain standard material libraries using established shading templates for consistency and pipeline efficiency
- Design, implement, and maintain complex, custom shading networks and materials for high-priority ("hero") assets when bespoke solutions are required
What We're Looking For
- Previous experience creating both hero assets & props in Look Development
- Demonstrable Lighting and Rendering experience within a VFX environment
- Proven knowledge of real world materials
- Proficiency with asset optimisation
- Comprehensive knowledge of physically based rendering and shader models
- Ability to work and communicate with texture and groom artists to get the best possible results
- A strong grasp of geometry formatting, including but not limited to Primvars
- Ability to build and maintain complex shading networks with artist usability and user-interface support in mind
- Knowledge of Katana is essential; Houdini and Maya beneficial
- A solid understanding of the fundamentals of neighbouring departments (FX, Texture, Groom, and Lighting)
- Excellent knowledge of Renderman or other unbiased rendering systems
- Aesthetic eye, anticipates potential problems and uses existing software knowledge to achieve the desired look
- Can work collaboratively within a team environment
- Ability to prioritise tasks, manage time well, provide everyone with accurate time estimates on shot task completion
- A thorough understanding of the VFX pipeline from modelling through animation, texturing, rendering and compositing
- Ability to pick up new techniques and the ability to learn new software quickly and easily
As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required. This role is Hybrid, which means the employee will be encouraged to work 2 days on-site per week at a Company designated location, and occasionally from home.
Look Development Technical Director employer: Industrial Light & Magic
Contact Detail:
Industrial Light & Magic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Look Development Technical Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend events, and connect with other creatives. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Make sure your demo reel is top-notch and highlights your best work. Tailor it to showcase your look development and shading expertise, as that’s what will catch the eye of hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of the VFX pipeline and the tools mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your previous projects and how you tackled challenges in look development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Look Development Technical Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Best Work: When submitting your application, make sure to include a demo reel or shot breakdown that highlights your best look development work. We want to see your creative flair and technical skills in action!
Tailor Your Resume: Customise your resume to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Look Development TD role. Highlight your experience with shader setups, asset optimisation, and any relevant software like Katana, Houdini, or Maya.
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, keep your language clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary to showcase your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Industrial Light & Magic
✨Showcase Your Creative Flair
Make sure to bring your demo reel and shot breakdown to the interview. This is your chance to shine! Highlight your best work, especially any hero assets you've created, and be ready to discuss the creative decisions behind them.
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
Brush up on your knowledge of Katana, Houdini, and Maya before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects, particularly in creating efficient shader setups and custom shading networks.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
Since this role involves working closely with Lighting Supervisors and CG Supervisors, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with other departments. Show that you can communicate effectively and solve CG challenges as part of a team.
✨Understand the VFX Pipeline
Familiarise yourself with the entire VFX pipeline from modelling to compositing. Be ready to discuss how your role fits into this process and how your understanding of neighbouring departments can enhance collaboration and efficiency.