EFFECTS TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Effects technical directors (FX TDs) create digital effects like explosions, smoke and water that animators use within their work. The effects must look believable and integrate seamlessly with the other assets, and they assist the director in ensuring that the live-footage scene is created with the VFX visuals in mind and post-production. The FX TD works under the supervision of the FX supervisor to create accurate particle and fluid effects, and are often working on set, this alongside a good knowledge of filmmaking and post-production ensures seamless work. Another responsibility is to create code for any customized digital tools required for the production.
Requirements of the effects technical director:
–Knowledge of the VFX pipeline is essential, to ensure a clear understanding of all jobs, what they involve and their challenges
–Leadership and support for junior roles, able to give advice and communicate well to other team members
–Problem solving skills are needed to find efficient solutions to obstacles that may crop up within the project.
–Programming and coding abilities are important for this role, including advanced knowledge of Python, VEX and C++
FX TD’s work along with lighting artists and compositors any other TD’s on the project. This role is a senior position, with a few years experience needed beforehand, programming is an essential part of the job so any education related to this field would prove useful.
https://www.cgspectrum.com/career-pathways/fx-technical-director
ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Assistant technical directors identify and fix any problems that may arise to ensure all members of the VFX pipeline have the toold necessary to do an successful job. They have a strong understanding of the different job roles and the software used by the different VFX artists.
Assistant TDs aid the Pipeline TD’s to gain information on all the departments and compile what needs they may have. The primary role is to design solutions to problems that come up, they also have coding skills to create digital tools if needed. In general the assistant TD’s deal with the minor issues of the production and manage the data and schedule of the project.
Requirements of the assistant technical director:
–Communication is key, as this role must liaise with all departments along the pipeline when necessary
–Programming and coding skills are necessary in order to fix problems, with a high level of technical knowledge in the relevant software.
–Problem-solving skills are also imperative, this role primarily deals with identifying problems and thinking of effective and useful solutions to them
An assistant TD works under the pipeline TD alongside other staff within the VFX pipeline, this is to ensure they understand and are aware of any issues that arise. This role is considered a junior one, some experience is necessary and evidence of problem solving skills are beneficial.
SOFTWARE DEVELOPER
Software developers produce the technology necessary for a VFX project. They create the tech needed to suit the artists, and design new and innovative digital tools to enhance existing programmes. This role involves problem solving and communication, as they must stay well informed about which software is relevant to the pipeline. They enable an efficient and successful work environment by providing appropriate tools when needed.
Requirements of a software developer:
–Teamwork and communication skills are needed to talk directly and effectively with a variety of staff
–Programming and coding skills are imperative to ensure software developers can create the necessary technology. With advanced knowledge of Python and C++
–Problem-solving abilities are important to this role, as they must come up with creative and useful solutions with up-to-date technology.
They work with technical directors and liaise with many members of the VFX pipeline. Strong coding skills are clearly required along side technical skills with coding language to get this role, and experience is very valuable.
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/visual-effects-vfx/technical/software-developer/
PIPELINE TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
Pipeline technical directors are required to write and maintain the digital tools used in a VFX production. They provide direct help to artists and aid in solving problems along the pipeline, liasing with the technology departments to ensure the correct technology is used, and inform them of possible new technological needs. They make sure the project runs smoothy by fixing these problems, using their skills in writing and modifying code as necessary. They work closely with research and development teams, who can test new software.
Requirements of a pipeline technical director:
–Problem-solving is a necessary skill, to think analytically and identify and solve any problems that arise.
–Communication skills are important, as a pipeline TD they must be able to talk with a variety of staff throughout the studio.
– Programming and coding skills are a must, with advanced knowledge in Python and C++
Pipeline technical directors work with all sorts of staff members, depending on where problems arise. They do also work closely with software developer. This is not an entry level role, and requires experience working in the industry to ensure a good understanding of the technology of the VFX pipeline.
http://www.andrew-whitehurst.net/pipeline.html
