Senior Houdini Technical Director

Culver City, California, United States
Design

Summary

Posted:
Role Number:200548657
Apple’s Human Interface VFX team designs product experiences, from early ideation all the way through to the shipping product. To ensure high-quality results, we work closely with other HI design teams, software teams, graphics engineers and product marketing.

Key Qualifications

  • 10+ of production experience in procedural modeling, geometry processing & optimization, dynamic simulation and HDA generation for feature films, advertising or AAA games
  • Mastery in manipulating physical dynamics and lighting to achieve lifelike imagery through Houdini's node-based workflow
  • Demonstrated ability to build complex, procedural network graphs that are easy to follow
  • Expertise in developing advanced shading networks in Houdini, utilizing geometry data and math operations with an eye to realtime experiences
  • Proficiency in working with renderers such as Mantra, Karma, Arnold, or V-Ray, and familiarity with Solaris and USD composition
  • Versatility in adapting content for various platforms, from high-end renderings to real-time assets, without compromising quality
  • Exceptional communication skills, capable of leading collaborative efforts across departments
  • Independent and driven, with a keen ability to adapt to new tools and workflows
  • Reel required

Description

We are in search of a Senior Houdini Technical Director to help us achieve the highest levels of photorealism in our designs. Using Houdini's procedural toolkit, you will be at the forefront of crafting complex shaders/materials, dynamic simulations, and artist-friendly tools for geometric optimization. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic, collaborative setting, constantly exploring the limits of next-generation technology and procedural content creation.

Education & Experience

BA/BFA in Digital Media, Visual Effects, Animation, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience

Additional Requirements

  • Proficiency in VEX and Python scripting for automation and tool development.
  • Solid understanding of other DCC tools
  • Experience working with external art teams and outsource partners
  • Strong leadership and mentoring abilities and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to find creative solutions for technically challenging tasks

Pay & Benefits