Staff Production Engineer - All Disciplines

Req ID: 10091707

About Us

Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), established in 1975 by George Lucas, has crafted some of the most iconic moments in cinema history. From legendary franchises like Star Wars and Jurassic Park to hit films like Pirates of the Caribbean, Transformers, and The Avengers, as well as immersive theme park rides and interactive experiences, ILM continues to push the boundaries of visual entertainment.

ILM’s R&D group pioneers the technology that empowers our artists to create stunning visuals. With 34 Scientific and Technical Academy Awards® under our belt, our team comprises over 70 innovative software engineers who collaborate closely with more than a thousand digital artists. We operate across multiple studios in San Francisco, Vancouver, London, Sydney, and Mumbai.

Role Summary

This hybrid position involves working 2-3 days on-site at a designated company location and occasionally from home. As an engineer in our R&D team, you'll develop tools and production techniques for all areas of visual effects and feature animation production, including:

• Image processing, compositing, and rotoscoping
• Simulating natural phenomena and procedural animation
• Lighting, texturing, and look development
• Modeling, rigging, and animation of bodies and faces
• Tools, structures, and pipeline systems for managing complex 3D scenes

We welcome engineers passionate about applying the latest machine learning technologies to these exciting challenges!

Responsibilities

In this role, you’ll:

• Develop innovative algorithms and user interfaces
• Optimize data management processes
• Build tools for large-scale photo-realistic visual effects production
• Collaborate with artists on specific shots
• Lead teams and projects
• Work on long-term software development and provide day-to-day artist support
• Partner with commercial software vendors to develop and deploy advanced tools

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates with:

• Proficiency in C++ and Python on Linux
• Knowledge or eagerness to learn principles of visual effects
• Experience or readiness to learn software like Maya, Houdini, Katana, Mari
• Understanding of machine learning techniques and processes
• Familiarity with standard data formats: OpenEXR, OpenVDB, Alembic, USD
• Ability to design user-friendly interfaces using GUI toolkits: Qt, PySide, QML
• Appreciation of software development principles
• Experience mentoring and leading teams
• BS or advanced degree in computer science or a related field
• Typically 10+ years of professional software development or VFX production experience

Compensation and Benefits

The hiring range for this position in Vancouver is C$137,300 to C$175,800 per year. The final offer will consider factors including internal equity, geographic location, and experience. A comprehensive range of medical, financial, and other benefits may be offered.

Join Us!

If you thrive in a creative environment, enjoy sharing knowledge, and have a passion for art, technology, and movies, this may be the perfect role for you. ILM, a part of The Walt Disney Company, strives to create an inclusive work environment.

Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada

Date Posted: 2024-05-29

Apply now to be a part of our dynamic team and help shape the future of visual effects and animation!

Primary Category: Software Engineer

Employment Type: Full-time