At a Glance
- Tasks: Create stunning CG lighting and rendering for diverse film projects.
- Company: Join the legendary Industrial Light & Magic team in London.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, creative environment, and opportunities to learn from industry leaders.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on innovation and creativity.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking visual effects that shape the future of filmmaking.
- Qualifications: Experience in VFX lighting, strong communication skills, and a passion for storytelling.
Lighting Technical Director (All levels) - ILM London
Job ID 10157574 Location London, United Kingdom Business Industrial Light & Magic Date postedAug. 04, 2026
Job Summary:
Position Summary
We are looking for Lighting Technical Directors who reflect the creative talent, collaborative mindset and passion for great filmmaking that define ILM.
Lighting Technical Directors are responsible for producing high-quality CG lighting and rendering for complex shots across a wide range of diverse projects and pipelines.
What You’ll Do
- Design and create the lighting and the look of computer-generated objects and scenes.
- Responsible for the final CG scene assembly, lighting and rendering of very complex shots.
- Works closely with Lighting Supervisors and CG Supervisors to determine the best approach to solving CG challenges and developing the final look.
- Creates lighting setups and/or works within current setups.
- Creates efficient rendering setups in order to optimise render farm usage.
What We’re Looking For
- In-depth understanding of the VFX pipeline from modelling through animation, texturing, rendering and compositing.
- Real-world expertise in lighting and photography.
- Demonstrable advanced Lighting and Rendering experience within a VFX environment.
- Previous experience performing shot Look Dev tasks.
- Exhibits excellent listening and communication skills, able to receive direction and feedback.
- Excellent aesthetic eye, anticipates potential problems and uses knowledge of how to use the tools to achieve the desired look.
- Ability to collaborate within a team while also being autonomous as needed
- Ability to pick up new techniques and the ability to learn new software quickly and easily.
- Katana & Renderman knowledge are advantageous
- Knowledge of Python and/or MEL scripting is essential
- Good knowledge of Nuke or similar compositing package, including how to use layers and passes to tweak a shot after it has been rendered.
- A solid understanding of Linux based operating systems.
- Basic knowledge of physically plausible shading techniques.
- Strong knowledge of lighting techniques and a good understanding of colour-space.
- Pipeline scripting ability.
- Excellent knowledge of Renderman and other unbiased rendering systems.
This role is Hybrid, which means the employee will be required to work a minimum of 2 days on-site per week at a Company designated location, and occasionally from home.
- Step Inside Our World of Stories to Learn More About Us at ILM
- Discover How We Challenge the Impossible Every Day. Learn More About Our Projects
- Visit Our Latest News to Learn How Story Drives Everything We Do
Founded in 1975 by George Lucas, ILM is the leading effects facility in the world, serving the motion picture, commercial production, and attraction industries. ILM has created visual effects for over 325 feature films and has played a key role in seven of the top 10 worldwide box-office hits of all time and has contributed to 25 of the top 50. ILM has set the standard for visual effects, creating some of the most stunning images in the history of film. At the forefront of the digital revolution, the company continues to break new ground in visual effects, VR, AR, and Immersive Cinema.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with ILM (UK) Ltd. , which is part of a business we call Industrial Light & Magic .
ILM (UK) Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer.
Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, colour, religion or belief, sex, nationality, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, disability or pregnancy or maternity.
Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Lighting Technical Director (All levels) - ILM London employer: The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With generous benefits such as private medical insurance, 25 days of annual leave, and unique perks like free park entry, employees are supported both personally and professionally. Located in the heart of London, the company provides ample opportunities for growth and development, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their career while contributing to a diverse and inclusive community.
