Lead Compositing Artist

WELCOME TO CAUSE AND FX!

Ranked as the 6th fastest-growing company in New Zealand according to The Deloitte Fast 50 awards, Cause and FX has quickly become a leading independent VFX studio in the country. Our studio is celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and a team of committed artists known for consistently delivering exceptional work. We have gained the trust of major film and TV studios worldwide, working on notable projects such as Midnight at the Pera Palace, Mosquito Coast, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and most recently Twisted Metal. We embrace innovation and state-of-the-art technologies while nurturing the growth and potential of our team. Our mutual commitment fuels our motivation, and we warmly welcome individuals who share the same level of passion and dedication.

For our particular upcoming projects, we will only be reviewing applications from New Zealand and Australia.
This position is a 12 month contract to start, with the possibility of extending beyond that period.

THIS OPPORTUNITY

Are you passionate about leading a team to create stunning visual effects? We are seeking a talented Lead Compositing Artist to join our team. As the Lead Compositing Artist, you will work closely with other leads and team members to deliver high-quality shots within designated timeframes. Your role will involve not only completing complex compositing shots but also mentoring and supporting team members to enhance their skills. If you are a creative problem solver with a keen eye for detail and a passion for visual storytelling, we want to hear from you. Join us in pushing the boundaries of visual effects and creating memorable cinematic experiences.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and manage compositors, overseeing the running of a project or sequence.
• Evaluate the creative and technical approach for assigned shots.
• Create templates and tools for distribution to the team to increase efficiency and quality across multiple artists.
• Design concepts and look development for shots/sequence to establish the creative direction for the team to follow.
• Advocate best practices and guide, mentor and support artists in working efficiently and effectively optimized for clean workflow, setup sharing, revision resolution and quality assurance all within assigned targets.
• Working in tandem with the Department Leads and VFX Supervisors to develop the ‘creative look’ on key shots.
• Reviewing shots in a sequence and/or in dailies to ensure technical and creative continuity prior to review with VFX Supervisors and give direction to artist to achieve the required standards.
• Support the bidding team with task estimates and determining VFX methodology. 
• Mastery of the entire Nuke tool set with a strong sense of artistry responsible for creating high quality digital composites and the most challenging and demanding shots. 
• Accountable for assigned task targets for the team and proactive communication related to the assigned targets.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

• Minimum 7 years compositing experience in live action film or episodic projects.
• Mastery of Nuke, including knowledge of Gizmos and Groups workflows.
• Expert knowledge of compositing as well as integration of 3D elements into plates.
• Strong artistic sensibilities and skills, meticulous attention to detail, able to interpret feedback notes.
• Ability to perform digital matte painting, texture painting, or paint/roto work is a plus.
• Scripting ability (Python).
• Knowledge of 3D workflow (Maya, Houdini, Substance, Zbrush, Nuke, Karma/Solaris, Python and Redshift) is considered an asset.
• Knowledge and/or interest in emerging technologies including AI.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the capability to navigate complex technical challenges.
• Stay on schedule and meet deadlines while maintaining the highest quality of work.
• Demonstrating robust leadership and strategic thinking abilities, you should possess the skill to effectively lead and motivate the compositing team. It is essential to maintain a positive, cheerful, and friendly attitude throughout.
• Effectively communicate with artists, supervisors, and the production team, showcasing leadership in flagging issues, offering solutions, and providing updates on progress.

• Join a company that values kindness, curiousity, teamwork, and creativity!
• Interesting, exciting, and varied role within the film and TV industry
• Ongoing support for professional development
• Social events: Weekly quiz and Fromage Friday
• The ability to work hybrid, in-studio or remote!

At Cause & FX we promote a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusiveness, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger, more creative and ultimately better at what we do. At Cause and FX everybody’s welcome.