Studio: Rodeo FX
Job Opening: Head of Pipeline VFX
Location: Montreal, Canada
Type: Full-Time
Responsibilities:
- Serve as both a technical lead and a mentor to the pipeline software developers, and as a subject matter expert for all of Rodeo’s divisions (VFX, Animation, Creative);
- Collaborate with Heads of Department and Specialty Supervisors to design and implement next generation Pipeline tools and workflows;
- Establish clear and communicated work standards for the team. Ensure effective processes are in place that properly balance code quality and organizational goals;
- Manage all development projects from planning to implementation, including ensuring project objectives, performance indicators and milestones are in place and are being respected. Resolve any issues that may arise during the project;
- Ensure the needs of the VFX and Animation divisions are being met and that the work being done by the team reflects the organizational priorities. Provide transparent reporting on team initiatives;
- In collaboration with the Head of Technology , VP, VFX Operations and the Head of Animation Content, build yearly roadmaps with clear goals, timelines and budgets for executive approval;
- Identify and take actions to mitigate risks on a project by project basis;
- Stay up-to-date with new and emerging technology and methods, in order to identify future areas for development;
- Identify global training needs for the Pipeline team and, in conjunction with the Training Manager, develop and implement a training plan and calendar. Oversee the preparation and update of training materials and seminars;
- Lead monthly department meetings to provide updates, stay informed of ongoing projects and encourage the sharing of knowledge and information;
- Communicate staffing needs to the recruitment team, assist in screening candidates by reviewing CVs. Conduct interviews and approve hires;
- Review the performance of the Pipeline team and ensure they receive feedback on a regular basis. Conduct annual performance reviews and make recommendations for salary reviews;
- In conjunction with Human Resources, responsible for the management of team performance including deciding on promotions (levels and/or positions), disciplinary or performance issues, and terminations.
- Ensure the team is staffed with the appropriate balance of skills and experience to meet the company’s current and planned business needs;
- Actively monitor the work climate in their team, taking steps to encourage and ensure the maintenance of a positive work environment and adherence to company values;
- Positively represent Rodeo FX within the VFX and related communities to further grow the company’s reputation as an industry leader. This can include giving conferences, participating in panels and actively participating in industry events.
Qualifications & Skills:
- 10 years of software development experience in the VFX industry, including management experience;
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science or other related field;
- Extensive knowledge of industry standard programming languages (Python, C++);
- Professional knowledge of leading industry software and technologies (Maya, Houdini, Nuke);
- Comfortable with software project management tools (JIRA, Trello);
- Solid understanding of software design and architecture;
- Strong knowledge of trends and new technology within the industry and specialty;
- Ability to stay calm under pressure and act as a positive role model and mentor.
