The Walt Disney Company

Creature Technical Director (Simulations) - Expression of Interest - ILM Vancouver

The Walt Disney Company$100K — $128K *
Media
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 3 years of professional experience in technical direction or 5 years without formal education in a related field
  • Proficiency with Houdini for simulations
  • Strong skills in rigging and enveloping in Maya
  • Experience with corrective sculpting and anatomy knowledge
  • Good communication skills and a positive team player attitude
  • Linux proficiency and scripting experience (Python or VEX)
  • Experience with Massive or Houdini crowd software is a plus

Responsibilities

  • Set up and run various simulations including cloth, hair, and rigid body
  • Troubleshoot CFX and pipeline issues effectively
  • Mentor and guide entry-level artists
  • Script tools and utilities in Maya for efficiency
  • Run creature rigging and enveloping tasks
  • Optimize simulation setups using CFX techniques
  • Contribute to department meetings and reviews as needed

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model with onsite and remote flexibility
  • Opportunity for professional growth and mentoring
  • Participation in creative projects
  • Exposure to advanced tools and technology in animation
  • Collaborative environment with skilled professionals
Full Job Description
Job Posting Title:
Creature Technical Director (Simulations) - Expression of Interest - ILM Vancouver

Req ID:


Job Description:

This role is considered Hybrid, which means the employee will work 2-3 days onsite at a Company designated location and occasionally from home.

This posting is an opportunity to submit your resume for future consideration; this is not a role that is open at this time. We anticipate this role may be open in the future, but we are not actively hiring for the position. If you would like to be considered for this potential role, please submit your resume. If the role becomes available, you may receive an email or call from a recruiter.

Position Summary

The Creature Technical Director is responsible for setting up and running flesh-surface, hair, rigid, crowd, and cloth simulations in Houdini and proprietary tools as well as rigging and enveloping hero to background creature, vehicles and props in Maya. The Creature Technical Director is able to wrangle rigging and creature pipeline issues proficiently under the direction and guidance of their supervisor.

What You'll Do
  • Set up and run cloth, hair, rigid body, crowd, muscle simulations
  • Troubleshoot creature CFX and pipeline issues
  • Mentor entry level artists
  • Script utilities/tools/plug-ins in Maya
  • Creature rigging and enveloping in Maya
  • Sufficient knowledge of CFX techniques to optimize the performance of simulation setups
  • Participate in reviews, dailies, and department meetings as required
  • Special projects as necessary


What We're Looking For
  • 3 years relevant professional experience and a diploma in computer graphics, fine arts, design, or photography, or related field; OR 5 years of relevant experience in lieu of education
  • Experience setting up and running simulation shotwork
  • Experience in corrective sculpting. Knowledge of anatomy and enveloping
  • Experience running simulation shotwork
  • Experience in corrective sculpting
  • Knowledge of anatomy and enveloping
  • Positive attitude and team player
  • Good communication skills
  • Proficiency with Linux
  • Expertise with Houdini
  • Experience with python or VEX scripting
  • Nice to have:
    • Experience with Massive or Houdini crowd software
    • C++
    • Basic proficiency in another discipline - Modeling, Texture, TD, Animation


As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required.

JoinILM

The hiring range for this position in Vancouver is C$100,300 to C$128,300 per year based on a 40-hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A full range of medical, financial, and/or other variable pay or benefits, may be offered dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:
ILM Vancouver

Job Posting Primary Business:
ILM Vancouver

Primary Job Posting Category:
Character Simulations - Studios, Rigging - Studios

Employment Type:
Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Vancouver, BC, Canada

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:
2026-07-21

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company started as a cartoon studio and evolves into sports coverage and television shows. Using the company's portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services, and consumer products, Walt Disney seeks to develop creative, innovative, and profitable entertainment experiences and related products.

The Walt Disney Company Careers

Join the magical world of The Walt Disney Company, a place where dreams come true and imagination meets innovation. As a global leader in entertainment and media, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that invite you to be part of a beloved brand known for its influential culture, diversity, and dynamic growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career journey with The Walt Disney Company and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of media and entertainment. Engage in work that matters, contributes to storytelling excellence, and brings joy to millions around the globe. Transform your professional life by joining a team that values creativity, leadership, and visionary thinking. The Walt Disney Company stands at the forefront of industry innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in entertainment and beyond. Lead with us from a unique position in the marketplace, where your skills in technology, creativity, and management converge to create extraordinary experiences. Collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals, united in their passion for delivering magical experiences. Our team at The Walt Disney Company is composed of over 200,000 dedicated individuals who thrive in an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation. Introducing The Walt Disney Company Leadership and Professional Growth Programs We are committed to developing leaders who can navigate the challenges of the digital era and drive success across our various business segments. Our leadership programs are designed to hone your skills and prepare you for executive roles within the company. Do Innovative Work Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the entertainment landscape. From groundbreaking films and television series to pioneering technological advancements, your work at The Walt Disney Company will set new standards in the creative and business worlds. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. Work alongside the best in the business and see how diversity and inclusion fuel our creativity and success. The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to a diverse workforce is evident in our hiring practices, training programs, and our everyday operations. Future-Proof Your Career With a wide array of benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and a network of supportive colleagues, your career at The Walt Disney Company is equipped for longevity and success. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health care, employee discounts, and access to exclusive company events and previews. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, The Walt Disney Company offers positions across a spectrum of fields and disciplines. Explore our career portal to find job opportunities that match your skills and passions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions, apply through our streamlined application process, and take the first step towards a magical career. We look for individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to contribute to our legacy of storytelling and innovation. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and insider perspectives—all from the people who make The Walt Disney Company a place of inspiration and excitement. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and updates that align with your career interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at The Walt Disney Company. Join us, and be part of the magic that only happens here at The Walt Disney Company!
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company
Size
190,000 employees
Market Cap
$155.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$4.9 billion
Founded
1923
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$60.7 billion
NASDAQ

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