About Zoic

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Who we’re looking for!

We are currently seeking a Senior Concept Designer to join our talented team. This position will include a variety of projects including episodics, streaming, advertising, and film. The successful candidate will focus on concepts and designs for a variety of environments, props, vehicles, etc.

The Concept Designer works in collaboration with the Creative Director to establish overall look and design for all environments and pitch work using both traditional and digital art methodologies.

Responsibilities:

• Tasks include designing environments, props, vehicles, etc across a variety of genres.
• Research and initiate information gathering of subject matter based on task.
• Work closely with ECD and VFX Sup’s to help define vision for all environment concept art.
• Participate in brainstorm sessions to develop new ideas and improve existing ones.
• Combine the goals of design, art direction and technological considerations to build environments.
• Develop and maintain strong creative and collaborative partnerships across disciplines to help develop environments, visual language and rule sets across projects.
• Serve as an artistic resource across Real Time, Series Television, Advertising, and Features.

Qualifications:

• Strong foundational art skills (drawing, perspective, composition, color theory, design, and anatomy).
• Strong design skills with the ability to render photoreal and hyperreal architecture and natural landscapes using the latest industry software and techniques.
• Strong ideation, brainstorming and documentation skills.
• Expert knowledge of Photoshop with an emphasis on drawing, painting and image making.
• Unreal, Maya, and/or Houdini experience a major plus.
• Ability to block out ideas in 3D as well as 2D depending on the need requested.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills. Client interaction a plus.
• At least 5 years of experience as a concept artist within the entertainment industry.
• Experience must be showcased with an up-to-date portfolio.
• Knowledge of real-time art development a major plus.

Additional information

• Candidates located in U.S., Vancouver or Toronto preferred. Hours are Pacific Standard Time. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• Zoic Studios U.S. participates in the eVerify program.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted.

U.S. Pipeline Developer

About Us

Zoic Studios is an Award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. "Visual Evolution" is our mission. We invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of Episodic Television. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there.

Summary:

We are currently seeking a Senior Pipeline Developer who will be responsible for assisting in the overall efficiency of the facility-wide production pipeline. They will support the management and development of tools that help digital artists with their daily use of both third party and in-house software and systems. These tools are intended to make visual effects production as efficient and productive as possible.

The role requires strong technical and communication skills, as well as a firm understanding of software design, graphics, and production workflow.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work with and take direction from Pipeline Managers, CTO, and Senior Technical Directors as well as artists to create, support & maintain tools to be integrated into Zoic’s existing pipeline.
• Utilize Python and PySide2 for tool creation and support
• Work with artists to troubleshoot and fix problems
• Update and maintain tools, techniques and work flows as required

Qualifications, Skills & Software Required:

• 5+ years of work experience as a Pipeline Developer or in a position with similar responsibilities. 
• Proficiency in Python
• Experience building lighting tools for Maya, Houdini, or Nuke
• Familiarity with Houdini a plus!
• Background in Nuke compositing a plus! 
• Experience with user interface development
• Solid understanding of Object Oriented Programming and Design
• Experience with Version Control Systems
• Some experience with Qt. Other UI framework experience a plus
• Familiarity with Digital Content Creation packages such as Maya, Nuke and Houdini
• C/C++, C#, web development, SQL experience a plus
• Past experience with Shotgun, RV, Cinema4D a plus
• Linux experience a plus. 
• Able to communicate clearly with the various Zoic departments and locations

Additional Info

• Remote work accepted, studio based in Los Angeles
• Candidates located in Los Angeles and surrounding area preferred
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• Zoic Studios Los Angeles and New York participates in the eVerify program
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted

Lead Rigging

This position is based in Vancouver. All applicants must reside in the United States or British Columbia/Ontario if applying within Canada.

Zoic Studios is an Award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. We have three locations, Los Angeles, New York City and Vancouver, Canada. Some of our recent credits include, The Haunting of Bly Manor, Legends of Tomorrow, Stargirland Fargo.

"Visual Evolution" is our mission; we invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of visual effects. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Zoic Studios seeks a Lead Rigging Artist to collaborate with various other departments within the studio to create and complete shots as assigned. In this Role you will work on a variety of projects and assets within a Rigging Department. The Lead Rigging Artist reports to the Rigging Supervisor.

The ideal candidate will have advanced knowledge of designing and maintaining smooth and efficient rigs for CG assets. In addition, they will have strong MAYA skills, extensive experience in scripting, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in any given day. You will help Lead a team of artists within the Rigging & Animation team.  Good communication and problem-solving skills are mandatory. 

As our studio mainly works on streaming and episodic tv, you must be comfortable working and leading a team in a fast-paced environment. The expectation is to manage your own assignments of rigs as well as manage, train and assist your team with their own tasks.

Responsibilities

• Work with Department Supervisors to achieve creative goals and maintain quality standards.
• Provide guidance for team members.
• Develop, maintain, and modify python-based scripts for assets, modules, and tools for intra and inter departmental tasks.
• Creation of new rigs and rig components for a variety of bipeds, quadrupeds, creature, and mechanical assets.
• Thorough Quality control (QC) for all rigs before release.
• Proactively troubleshoot and problem-solvewith CG or VFX Supervisors and modeling/animation/CFX departments to ensure rigs meet requirements.
• Take direction, and effectively communicate with both the team and management and mentor other Artists.

Qualifications:

• Min 3 years’ experience as a Rigger within live action VFX or animation studio in TV and/or film.
• Must showcase an up-to-date demo reel demonstrating rigging abilities.
• Solid understanding of Character set-up and rigging tools in Maya.
• Solid understanding of anatomy and kinematics to create rigs that match Show and Production expectations or exceed them.
• Proven level of experience with Skinweighting and other Deformers.
•  Ability to rig a variety of characters / objects in a realistic (non-cartoon manner).
• Experience writing Python Classes and UIs
• Must be organized with a strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Positive attitude and ability to easily adapt to changes in production needs.
• Excellent communication skills in English; both written and verbal.

Would be nice to have:

• Experience with a Rebuildable, Buildscript, Rig-Builder environment
• Knowledge of Api, PyQt, GitHub, Pyside, Shotgun
• Character FX knowledge and Interest (Hair, Cloth, Muscle)
• Houdini knowledge
• Motion capture and crowd rigging experience
• Experience with Unreal Engine and Maya roundtrip production

Additional information

• Candidates MUST be located in the United States, British Columbia or Ontario. This is a remote (work from home) position
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact

Senior Concept Designer - Environments

This position is based in Vancouver. All applicants must reside in the United States or British Columbia/Ontario if applying within Canada.

About Zoic

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Who we’re looking for!

We are currently seeking a Senior Concept Designer to join our talented team. This position will include a variety of projects including episodic, streaming, advertising, and film. The successful candidate will focus on concepts and designs for a variety of environments, props, vehicles, etc.

The Concept Designer works in collaboration with the Creative Director to establish overall look and design for all environments and pitch work using both traditional and digital art methodologies.

Responsibilities:

• Tasks include designing environments, props, vehicles, etc. across a variety of genres.
• Research and initiate information gathering of subject matter based on task.
• Work closely with ECD and VFX Sup’s to help define vision for all environment concept art.
• Participate in brainstorm sessions to develop new ideas and improve existing ones.
• Combine the goals of design, art direction and technological considerations to build environments.
• Develop and maintain strong creative and collaborative partnerships across disciplines to help develop environments, visual language and rule sets across projects.
• Serve as an artistic resource across Real Time, Series Television, Advertising, and Features.

Qualifications:

• Strong foundational art skills (drawing, perspective, composition, color theory, design, and anatomy).
• Strong design skills with the ability to render photoreal and hyperreal architecture and natural landscapes using the latest industry software and techniques.
• Strong ideation, brainstorming and documentation skills.
• Expert knowledge of Photoshop with an emphasis on drawing, painting and image making.
• Unreal, Maya, and/or Houdini experience a major plus.
• Ability to block out ideas in 3D as well as 2D depending on the need requested.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills. Client interaction a plus.
• At least 5 years of experience as a concept artist within the entertainment industry.
• Experience must be showcased with an up-to-date portfolio.
• Knowledge of real-time art development a major plus.

Additional information

• Candidates MUST be located in the United States, British Columbia or Ontario. Hours are Pacific Standard Time. This is a remote (work from home) position. 
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact.

Software Development Manager

This position is based in Vancouver. All applicants must reside in British Columbia if applying within Canada.

Zoic Studios is an award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. We have three locations, Los Angeles, New York City and Vancouver, Canada. Some of our recent credits include Ozark, Moon Knight, WandaVision, The Flash, and For All Mankind. 

"Visual Evolution" is our mission; we invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of visual effects. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Summary of Position

The Software Development Manager ensures works to manage our Software Engineering team, track project progress, and ensure projects stay on schedule in a fast paced visual effects environment. The Software Development Manager will also help to foresee any potential issues in the software development process and remove those roadblocks for the engineering team. This role will also make sure the department has what they need, communicate priorities with other Zoic divisions, help with documentation, and keep the department organized.

The ideal candidate will be highly organized and flexible with a willingness to learn technical concepts related to hardware and software on the job.

Responsibilities

• Partner closely with Engineering team and department heads to deliver valuable, working software on-time within our studio, while ensuring productivity of our developers and designers, across numerous efforts.
• Communicate progress on projects and related tasks regularly, to ensure stakeholder awareness 
• Assist in developing and orchestrating demonstrations
• Supports Software Engineer department through strong communication, documentation, and organization.
• Anticipates upcoming department needs and finds solutions to upcoming problems
• Coordinates and attends meetings, takes detailed notes, and communicates notes to the entire team
• Maintains confidentiality at all times in regards to proprietary projects, tools, and systems.
• Create and share documentation for new software tools

Key Qualifications:

• 4+ years of experience in a software project management focused position. 
• Experience delivering completed working software projects end-to-end
• Experience working with a team to support software products after launch 
• Experience working closely with software engineers
• Experience in expectation management of stakeholders and/or customers either internally or externally 
• Experienced with measuring and improving dev team performance, through a collaborative approach.   
• Demonstrates sound knowledge of cost control, including planning, tracking, and adjusting to re-forecast. 
• Aptitude for and understanding of technical concepts related to hardware and software.
• Ability to learn new technical subjects quickly and communicate them effectively
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to multi-task efficiently between several different projects
• Ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Willingness to learn Shotgun and other proprietary software
• Potential for overtime hours and travel, flexible schedule required.

Pluses (not required)

• BS in Computer Science or similar educational background
• Previous experience working as a software engineer
• Previous experience working in a Visual Effects Pipeline
• Familiarity with visual effects related software packages such as Maya, Houdini, Nuke, Unreal Engine

Additional information

• Candidates MUST be located in the United States, British Columbia or Ontario. This is a remote (work from home) position
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact

About Us

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

About this Role

We are looking for an experienced 3D Senior Environment Lead to join our team in order to work on multiple projects that included television, streamed series and Unreal initiatives. The start date is immediate.

The 3D Senior Environment Lead is responsible for leading a team and working alongside artists that create photo-real landscapes that integrate seamlessly with plate photography. Successful candidates display a high proficiency or varied skill level across the areas of model, texture, shading, look development, Houdini for scattering and the ability to slap-comp their own work.  You will lead a large team of artists, with tasks ranging from a small number of shots & scenes to working on specific assets within a larger body of work.  The 3D Senior Environment Lead is part of the Environments team and reports to the Environment Supervisor.

Responsibilities:

• Senior technical artist in Houdini for generalist needs (minimal FX)
• Senior TD experience with python/mel/vex coding
• R&D on new techniques and approaches to build tasks
• Mentor and instruct on proper use of Houdini and procedural techniques.
• Expert knowledge in procedural builds
• Tool creation for dept, example; vine generators, building generators, scatter systems
• Simple crowd and flocking sim knowledge
• Ability to conceptualize, create, and handoff complex environment builds with simple controls for downstream depts
• Unreal experience/Interest, Senior Houdini experience, Senior Maya experience
• Experience using MapBox in Houdini and height fields
• On the box majority of time
• Ability to cleanly transfer builds across different DCC's for downstream depts.
• Enthusiasm to assist junior and mid-level artists in dept and lighting to debug complex scenes and simplify problems

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years relevant experience in a VFX, live action studio
• Minimum 5 years in creating digital environments for TV and/or film
• Proven artistic ability across multiple CG disciplines including modeling, texturing, lighting, shading / look development, or compositing.
• Ability to purchased items as well as create new assets when needed
• Proficient in environment scene layout and composition
• Prior experience using Houdini for world generation
• Fluent in Maya
• Fluent in Houdini
• Working knowledge of Vray and Substance Painter
• Experience in Photoshop, MARI
• Ability to self-prioritize
• Strong communicator that requires minimal guidance in the execution of VFX Tasks.
• Must showcase an up-to-date reel with relevant work experience

Additional information

• Candidates located in U.S., Vancouver or Toronto preferred. Hours are Pacific Standard Time. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• Zoic Studios Los Angeles and New York participates in the eVerify program.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted.

About Us

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

What we’re looking for!

Zoic Studios seeks a Lead Rigging Artist to collaborate with various other departments within the studio to create and complete shots as assigned. In this Role you will work on a variety of projects and assets within a Rigging Department. The Lead Rigging Artist reports to the Rigging Supervisor.

The ideal candidate will have advanced knowledge of designing and maintaining smooth and efficient rigs for CG assets. In addition, they will have strong MAYA skills, extensive experience in scripting, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in any given day. You will help Lead a team of artists within the Rigging & Animation team. Good communication and problem-solving skills are mandatory.

As our studio mainly works on streaming and episodic tv, you must be comfortable working and leading a team in a fast-paced environment. The expectation is to manage your own assignments of rigs as well as manage, train and assist your team with their own tasks.

Responsibilities:

• Work with Department Supervisors to achieve creative goals and maintain quality standards.

• Provide guidance for team members.

• Develop, maintain, and modify python-based scripts for assets, modules, and tools for intra and inter departmental tasks.

• Creation of new rigs and rig components for a variety of bipeds, quadrupeds, creature, and mechanical assets.

• Thorough Quality control (QC) for all rigs before release.

• Proactively troubleshoot and problem-solve with CG or VFX Supervisors and modeling/animation/CFX departments to ensure rigs meet requirements.

• Take direction, and effectively communicate with both the team and management and mentor other Artists.

Qualifications:

• Min 3 years’ experience as a Rigger within live action VFX or animation studio in TV and/or film.

• Must showcase an up-to-date demo reel demonstrating rigging abilities.

• Solid understanding of Character set-up and rigging tools in Maya.

• Solid understanding of anatomy and kinematics to create rigs that match Show and Production expectations or exceed them.

• Proven level of experience with Skinweighting and other Deformers.

• Ability to rig a variety of characters / objects in a realistic (non-cartoon manner).

• Experience writing Python Classes and UIs

• Must be organized with a strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.

• Positive attitude and ability to easily adapt to changes in production needs.

• Excellent communication skills in English; both written and verbal.

Would be nice to have:

• Experience with a Rebuildable, Buildscript, Rig-Builder environment

• Knowledge of Api, PyQt, GitHub, Pyside, Shotgun

• Character FX knowledge and Interest (Hair, Cloth, Muscle)

• Houdini knowledge

• Motion capture and crowd rigging experience

• Experience with Unreal Engine and Maya roundtrip production

Additional information

• Remote work accepted, studio based in Los Angeles
• Candidates located on the west coast of the U.S. or the ability to work Pacific Standard Time preferred
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• Zoic Studios Los Angeles and New York participates in the eVerify program
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted

LA DevSecOps Engineer

About Us

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Description

Zoic Studios is looking for an experienced Security Engineer to work closely with, and support our software engineering team in building and improving upon our visual effects pipeline. This role will focus on creating and implementing security best practices, as well as implementing a CI/CD system.

This is a remote full time position.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work with and take direction from Pipeline Managers, CTO, and IT Systems Team to create, support & maintain tools to be integrated into Zoic’s software pipeline.
• Maintain and develop security focused systems and best practices 
• Maintain and develop upon existing CI/CD systems
• Maintain and develop Cloud Rendering infrastructure
• Contribute to Research and Development of Cloud workstation infrastructure

Technical Skills/Qualifications

• 3+ years professional experience in DevOps or related positions
• Kubernetes (k8s) experience required. 
• Ability to code and script in Python and Windows PowerShell 
• Cloud services experience with Google Cloud, AWS, or Azure
• Experience with Version Control Systems
• Experience developing multi-container Docker applications
• Ability to use a wide variety of open source technologies and tools
• Experience managing and deploying CI/CD
• Experience working with systems and IT operations
• Experience working on both Windows and Linux operating systems
• Experience implementing automation tools
• Understanding of Agile software development methodologies and best practices
• Understanding and experience working in teams in a multi-site environment

Pluses

• Experience with Apache Mesos
• Working Knowledge of ElasticSearch

Additional information

• Candidates located in Los Angeles and surrounding area or British Columbia preferred. This is a remote (work-from-home) position. 
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• Zoic Studios Los Angeles and New York participates in the eVerify program
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact

Security Clearance: 
Successful applicant for this position must be eligible to obtain a DoD security clearance or government customer access to classified/sensitive material. *US Citizenship is required. A current DoD clearance is not required to be eligible for this position.  

Senior Houdini TD

All applicants must reside in the United States or British Columbia/Ontario if applying within Canada.

Zoic Studios is an Award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. We have three locations, Los Angeles, New York City and Vancouver, Canada. Recent credits include See, Ozark, Sweet Tooth, For All Mankind, and Superman & Lois.

"Visual Evolution" is our mission; we invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of visual effects. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Zoic is looking for an experienced Senior Houdini TD to assist in the overall efficiency of the Houdini production pipeline across departments. FX, Lighting, Environments, and other departments as we move more work into the Houdini pipeline. The position reports to the Studio Lead TD, ensuring that new workflows and tools developed follow Zoic’s programming standards and requirements.

The Senior Houdini TD’s role includes, but will not be limited to, optimizing Artists’ Houdini scenes and ensure the IO of data between departments is efficient via tools or workflow recommendations. You will investigate and solve complex puzzles, keeping in mind the impact on the production process and pipeline overall. 

Overall, the role will support the management and development of tools and workflows that help digital artists with their daily use of both third party and in-house software and systems. The role requires strong technical and communication skills, between technical and non-technical personnel, as well as a firm understanding of software design, graphics, and production workflow.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Work with and take direction from Studio Technical Supervisor, Department Supervisors, Pipeline Managers, and Senior TDs as well as working with artists to create support & maintain tools to be integrated into Zoic’s existing pipeline.
• Utilize Python and PySide for tool creation and support
• Work with artists to troubleshoot and fix problems
• Update and maintain tools, techniques and work flows as required
• Develop digital assets (HDAs) per department needs
• Discuss and design solutions shots and sequences which fit within tight computation/storage/time limitations while still achieving the desired creative goals of VFX Supervisors and Creative Directors
• If needed research and optimize artists’ scenes from Houdini and Mantra to simulate and render successfully within allotted time frame and machine resources, such as such as storage, RAM, and clock speed, to maximize efficiency on the farm.
• Debug and repair problematic scenes from Houdini and Mantra/Vray related to effects, simulation, procedural modeling, lighting, rendering, and other disciplines.
• Provide troubleshooting and technical solutions for day-to-day Houdini production problems.
• Work closely with Lighters and Compositors to ensure that all generated FX elements integrate seamlessly in downstream departments.
• Utilize currently available proprietary tools to solve FX and pipeline issues and on occasion develop new small-scale tools to address project or FX/Houdini department issues.
• Collaborate with Pipeline department on any required large-scale tools development.
• Stay up-to-date on latest proprietary pipeline tools and workflows from all office locations and regularly share information on these new developments with FX artists

Qualifications, Skills & Software Required

• 4+ years of work experience as a FX or Houdini TD or in a position with similar responsibilities. 
• Proficiency in Python
• Proficiency with Houdini
• Experience debugging other users’ scene files and renders
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to troubleshoot and work independently on projects without supervision
• Experience with user interface development
• Past pipeline development experience a plus
• Solid understanding of Object-Oriented Programming and Design
• Experience with Version Control Systems
• Some experience with Qt. Other UI framework experience a plus
• Knowledge of Python scripting in Houdini, Nuke, and Maya
• C/C++, C#, web development, SQL experience a plus
• Past experience with Shotgun, RV, Cinema4D a plus
• Linux experience a plus. Bash, file IO, process lifecycle
• Able to communicate clearly with the various Zoic departments and locations
• Some experience using Maya, V-Ray, Nuke, Bifrost, Yeti, or Substance Painter a plus
• Some experience using render queuing software a plus
• Basic Python, VEX, HScript, and HDA scripting a plus

Additional information:

• Candidates MUST be located in the United States, British Columbia or Ontario. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications, we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact.
   

Roto & Paint Lead Artist

This position is based in Vancouver. All applicants must reside in the United States or British Columbia/Ontario if applying within Canada.

Zoic Studios is an Award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. We have three locations, Los Angeles, New York City and Vancouver, Canada. Recent credits include: See, Sweet Tooth, For All Mankind, and Superman & Lois.

"Visual Evolution" is our mission; we invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of visual effects. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Zoic Studios seeks aRoto & Paint Lead Artistto collaborate with various other departments within the studio to create and complete shots as assigned.

The Roto & Paint Lead reports to the Roto & Paint Supervisor and Roto & Paint Department Manager.

Responsibilities:

• Work with Department Supervisors to achieve creative goals and maintain quality standards.
• Quality control (QC) for both internal shots and outsourced shots.
• Work directly with the Roto & Paint team and Roto & Paint Supervisor to seamlessly integrate elements of a shot to the highest level of VFX realism.
• Proactively troubleshoot and problem-solve.
• Attend production meetings as required.
• Provide guidance for team members.
• Take direction, and effectively communicate with both the team and management.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years in Roto/Paint within a VFX studio
• Past experience in a lead role within VFX is a plus.
• Experience in communicating client notes to artists.
• Proficient in Nuke and Silhouette.
• Strong eye for detail, colour, and composition
• Demonstrated ability to take direction and follow through
• Work well under tight deadlines in a team environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to delegate tasks as well as work on-the-box.
• Experience leading and mentoring others.
• Organized and dedicated work ethic
• Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal

Must provide a link to reel demonstrating paint / roto and 3D projection skills along with a breakdown.

Zoic is a Maya/Vray/Nuke studio.

Additional information:

• Candidates MUST be located in the United States, British Columbia or Ontario. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact.

Senior Houdini TD

All applicants must reside in the United States or British Columbia/Ontario if applying within Canada.

Zoic Studios is an Award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. We have three locations, Los Angeles, New York City and Vancouver, Canada. Recent credits include See, Sweet Tooth, For All Mankind, and Superman & Lois.

"Visual Evolution" is our mission; we invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of visual effects. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Zoic is looking for an experienced Senior Houdini TD to assist in the overall efficiency of the Houdini production pipeline across departments. FX, Lighting, Environments, and other departments as we move more work into the Houdini pipeline.The position reports to the Studio Lead TD, ensuring that new workflows and tools developed follow Zoic’s programming standards and requirements.

The Senior Houdini TD’s role includes, but will not be limited to, optimizing Artists’ Houdini scenes and ensure the IO of data between departments is efficient via tools or workflow recommendations. You will investigate and solve complex puzzles, keeping in mind the impact on the production process and pipeline overall.

Overall, the role will support the management and development of tools and workflows that help digital artists with their daily use of both third party and in-house software and systems. The role requires strong technical and communication skills, between technical and non-technical personnel, as well as a firm understanding of software design, graphics, and production workflow.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Work with and take direction from Studio Technical Supervisor, Department Supervisors, Pipeline Managers, and Senior TDs as well as working with artists to create support & maintain tools to be integrated into Zoic’s existing pipeline.
• Utilize Python and PySide for tool creation and support
• Work with artists to troubleshoot and fix problems
• Update and maintain tools, techniques and work flows as required
• Develop digital assets (HDAs) per department needs
• Discuss and design solutions shots and sequences which fit within tight computation/storage/time limitations while still achieving the desired creative goals of VFX Supervisors and Creative Directors
• If needed research and optimize artists’ scenes from Houdini and Mantra to simulate and render successfully within allotted time frame and machine resources, such as such as storage, RAM, and clock speed, to maximize efficiency on the farm.
• Debug and repair problematic scenes from Houdini and Mantra/Vray related to effects, simulation, procedural modeling, lighting, rendering, and other disciplines.
• Provide troubleshooting and technical solutions for day-to-day Houdini production problems.
• Work closely with Lighters and Compositors to ensure that all generated FX elements integrate seamlessly in downstream departments.
• Utilize currently available proprietary tools to solve FX and pipeline issues and on occasion develop new small-scale tools to address project or FX/Houdini department issues.
• Collaborate with Pipeline department on any required large-scale tools development.
• Stay up-to-date on latest proprietary pipeline tools and workflows from all office locations and regularly share information on these new developments with FX artists

Qualifications, Skills & Software Required

• 4+ years of work experience as a FX or Houdini TD or in a position with similar responsibilities. 
• Proficiency in Python
• Proficiency with Houdini
• Experience debugging other users’ scene files and renders
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to troubleshoot and work independently on projects without supervision
• Experience with user interface development
• Past pipeline development experience a plus
• Solid understanding of Object-Oriented Programming and Design
• Experience with Version Control Systems
• Some experience with Qt. Other UI framework experience a plus
• Knowledge of Python scripting in Houdini, Nuke, and Maya
• C/C++, C#, web development, SQL experience a plus
• Past experience with Shotgun, RV, Cinema4D a plus
• Linux experience a plus. Bash, file IO, process lifecycle
• Able to communicate clearly with the various Zoic departments and locations
• Some experience using Maya, V-Ray, Nuke, Bifrost, Yeti, or Substance Painter a plus
• Some experience using render queuing software a plus
• Basic Python, VEX, HScript, and HDA scripting a plus

Additional information:

• Candidates MUST be located in the United States, British Columbia or Ontario. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications, we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contact.

U.S. Software Development Manager

Zoic Studios is an award winning VFX company made up of accomplished artists and producers who understand story, process and relationships. Partnership, integrity and enthusiasm are our key founding principles. We have three locations, Los Angeles, New York City and Vancouver, Canada. Some of our recent credits include Ozark, Moon Knight, WandaVision, The Flash, and For All Mankind. 

"Visual Evolution" is our mission; we invest in constantly improving our technological and studio processes so that our artists can focus on being creative even in the lightning fast paced world of visual effects. We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive film and television projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Summary of Position

The Software Development Manager ensures works to manage our Software Engineering team, track project progress, and ensure projects stay on schedule in a fast paced visual effects environment. The Software Development Manager will also help to foresee any potential issues in the software development process and remove those roadblocks for the engineering team. This role will also make sure the department has what they need, communicate priorities with other Zoic divisions, help with documentation, and keep the department organized.

The ideal candidate will be highly organized and flexible with a willingness to learn technical concepts related to hardware and software on the job.

Responsibilities

• Partner closely with Engineering team and department heads to deliver valuable, working software on-time within our studio, while ensuring productivity of our developers and designers, across numerous efforts.
• Communicate progress on projects and related tasks regularly, to ensure stakeholder awareness 
• Assist in developing and orchestrating demonstrations
• Supports Software Engineer department through strong communication, documentation, and organization.
• Anticipates upcoming department needs and finds solutions to upcoming problems
• Coordinates and attends meetings, takes detailed notes, and communicates notes to the entire team
• Maintains confidentiality at all times in regards to proprietary projects, tools, and systems.
• Create and share documentation for new software tools

Key Qualifications:

• 4+ years of experience in a software project management focused position. 
• Experience delivering completed working software projects end-to-end
• Experience working with a team to support software products after launch 
• Experience working closely with software engineers
• Experience in expectation management of stakeholders and/or customers either internally or externally 
• Experienced with measuring and improving dev team performance, through a collaborative approach.   
• Demonstrates sound knowledge of cost control, including planning, tracking, and adjusting to re-forecast. 
• Aptitude for and understanding of technical concepts related to hardware and software.
• Ability to learn new technical subjects quickly and communicate them effectively
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to multi-task efficiently between several different projects
• Ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Willingness to learn Shotgun and other proprietary software
• Potential for overtime hours and travel, flexible schedule required.

Pluses (not required)

• BS in Computer Science or similar educational background
• Previous experience working as a software engineer
• Previous experience working in a Visual Effects Pipeline
• Familiarity with visual effects related software packages such as Maya, Houdini, Nuke, Unreal Engine

Additional information

• This is a remote (work from home) position
• Candidates located in Los Angeles, the United States, and Vancouver preferred
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• Zoic Studios Los Angeles and New York participates in the eVerify program
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted

About Zoic

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

Who we’re looking for!

We are currently seeking a Senior Concept Designer to join our talented team. This position will include a variety of projects including episodics, streaming, advertising, and film. The successful candidate will focus on concepts and designs for a variety of environments, props, vehicles, etc.

The Concept Designer works in collaboration with the Creative Director to establish overall look and design for all environments and pitch work using both traditional and digital art methodologies.

Responsibilities:

• Tasks include designing environments, props, vehicles, etc across a variety of genres.
• Research and initiate information gathering of subject matter based on task.
• Work closely with ECD and VFX Sup’s to help define vision for all environment concept art.
• Participate in brainstorm sessions to develop new ideas and improve existing ones.
• Combine the goals of design, art direction and technological considerations to build environments.
• Develop and maintain strong creative and collaborative partnerships across disciplines to help develop environments, visual language and rule sets across projects.
• Serve as an artistic resource across Real Time, Series Television, Advertising, and Features.

Qualifications:

• Strong foundational art skills (drawing, perspective, composition, color theory, design, and anatomy).
• Strong design skills with the ability to render photoreal and hyperreal architecture and natural landscapes using the latest industry software and techniques.
• Strong ideation, brainstorming and documentation skills.
• Expert knowledge of Photoshop with an emphasis on drawing, painting and image making.
• Unreal, Maya, and/or Houdini experience a major plus.
• Ability to block out ideas in 3D as well as 2D depending on the need requested.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills. Client interaction a plus.
• At least 5 years of experience as a concept artist within the entertainment industry.
• Experience must be showcased with an up-to-date portfolio.
• Knowledge of real-time art development a major plus.

Additional information

• Candidates located in U.S., Vancouver or Toronto preferred. Hours are Pacific Standard Time. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• Zoic Studios U.S. participates in the eVerify program.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted.

About Us

Zoic Studios is a creative collective focused on the intersection of storytelling, strategy, technology, and design.

Partnership, integrity, and enthusiasm are our founding principles. “Visual Evolution” is our mission. Through the evolution of story, art, and technology our aim is to broaden the audience for the moving image.

We apply these principles to our work on some of the most VFX intensive projects out there. We like a challenge. Do you?

About this Role

We are looking for an experienced 3D Senior Environment Lead to join our team in order to work on multiple projects that included television, streamed series and Unreal initiatives. The start date is immediate.

The 3D Senior Environment Lead is responsible for leading a team and working alongside artists that create photo-real landscapes that integrate seamlessly with plate photography. Successful candidates display a high proficiency or varied skill level across the areas of model, texture, shading, look development, Houdini for scattering and the ability to slap-comp their own work.  You will lead a large team of artists, with tasks ranging from a small number of shots & scenes to working on specific assets within a larger body of work.  The 3D Senior Environment Lead is part of the Environments team and reports to the Environment Supervisor.

Responsibilities:

• Senior technical artist in Houdini for generalist needs (minimal FX)
• Senior TD experience with python/mel/vex coding
• R&D on new techniques and approaches to build tasks
• Mentor and instruct on proper use of Houdini and procedural techniques.
• Expert knowledge in procedural builds
• Tool creation for dept, example; vine generators, building generators, scatter systems
• Simple crowd and flocking sim knowledge
• Ability to conceptualize, create, and handoff complex environment builds with simple controls for downstream depts
• Unreal experience/Interest, Senior Houdini experience, Senior Maya experience
• Experience using MapBox in Houdini and height fields
• On the box majority of time
• Ability to cleanly transfer builds across different DCC's for downstream depts.
• Enthusiasm to assist junior and mid-level artists in dept and lighting to debug complex scenes and simplify problems

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years relevant experience in a VFX, live action studio
• Minimum 5 years in creating digital environments for TV and/or film
• Proven artistic ability across multiple CG disciplines including modeling, texturing, lighting, shading / look development, or compositing.
• Ability to purchased items as well as create new assets when needed
• Proficient in environment scene layout and composition
• Prior experience using Houdini for world generation
• Fluent in Maya
• Fluent in Houdini
• Working knowledge of Vray and Substance Painter
• Experience in Photoshop, MARI
• Ability to self-prioritize
• Strong communicator that requires minimal guidance in the execution of VFX Tasks.
• Must showcase an up-to-date reel with relevant work experience

Additional information

• Candidates located in U.S., Vancouver or Toronto preferred. Hours are Pacific Standard Time. This is a remote (work from home) position.
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs.
• Zoic Studios Los Angeles and New York participates in the eVerify program.
• This job description contains the basic requirements for the position and is NOT intended to be a complete list of responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.
• Due to the volume of applications we receive across our different openings we regret that only those selected to interview will be contacted.