We are looking for a talented and versatile Layout and Environment Generalist to join our Melbourne VFX team. The successful candidate will work closely with the CG Supervisor and Environment Lead to create detailed and cinematic environments, as well as set up and execute complex layout work for high-end visual effects projects. This role requires a strong understanding of layout workflows, environment creation, and an ability to work collaboratively with other departments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Layout:
- Work with the VFX Supervisor and clients to understand creative and technical requirements for scenes.
- Set up and maintain scene layouts, including camera placement, asset placement, and shot composition.
- Work closely with other departments (Animation, FX, Lighting) to ensure layouts meet the overall production needs.
- Troubleshoot and solve layout-related challenges to ensure shots flow smoothly through the pipeline.
- Environment Creation:
- Build realistic 3D environments, from large-scale landscapes to intricate interior spaces, using Maya and Houdini.
- Create or modify environment assets such as terrain, foliage, architecture, and set dressings.
- Integrate 3D assets and matte paintings to create visually cohesive and photorealistic environments.
- Collaborate with the Lighting and FX teams to ensure environments work efficiently within final renders.
- Technical and Artistic Collaboration:
- Optimize assets and layouts for efficiency while maintaining visual quality.
- Communicate with other artists and supervisors to ensure layouts and environments align with the creative vision and technical constraints.
- Contribute to R&D and pipeline improvements to streamline the layout and environment processes.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Experience:
- 3+ years of experience in a layout or environment generalist role within a VFX studio.
- Demonstrated experience working on high-quality VFX projects for film, television, or advertising.
- Software Proficiency:
- Advanced skills in Maya for layout, environment creation, and generalist tasks.
- Strong knowledge of Houdini for procedural asset creation, terrain generation, and scene setup.
- Familiarity with tools such as Substance Painter/Designer, ZBrush, and SpeedTree is a plus.
- Skills:
- Strong understanding of cinematic composition, perspective, and storytelling through environment and layout work.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex scenes.
- Ability to manage time effectively and meet tight production deadlines.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, with a willingness to take direction and iterate based on feedback.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of industry-standard rendering engines such as USD or Redshift.
- Experience working with large-scale asset management and data optimization.