Junior Crowd Technical Director (Project Hire) - ILM San Francisco

Job Posting Title:

Junior Crowd Technical Director (Project Hire) - ILM San Francisco

Req ID:

10148132

Job Description:

Position Summary

The Junior Crowd TD is responsible for supporting the creative and technical development of crowd simulations for a production. Using both off-the-shelf and proprietary tools, they help populate large-scale environments such as cities, stadiums and battle sequences. Working with hero crowd assets, they follow direction from the Crowd Supervisor to assist with shot work, troubleshoot pipeline issues, and maintain non-hero crowd assets.

At ILM, we strive to be an inclusive environment, and we are committed to considering promising individuals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences for this position.

What You’ll Do

• Choreograph the motion and behaviour of crowds in entry level shots, meeting the artistic direction of the show supervisor.

• Manage the motions and cycles used on a show, including creating blending cycles.

• Assist in developing efficient workflows within Houdini, including creating and modifying internal HDAs.

• Creatively use existing motion and character variations to create visual diversity within a crowd.

• Assist the crowd team to troubleshoot technical issues within Houdini and the wider pipeline.

• Work with production and supervisors to meet the show’s deadlines.

• Communicate with artists across disciplines to work effectively as part of the wider show team.

• Attend dailies to present your work and receive feedback from the show supervisor.

• Collaborate within the crowd team, sharing knowledge and contributing to the development of the department.

What We’re Looking For

• At least 2 years of relevant VFX experience with a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in Traditional Animation, Computer Graphics, Computer Science, Engineering, and related fields; OR at least 3 years of relevant professional VFX experience.

• Strong knowledge of Houdini Software and workflows.

• Exceptional problem-solving skills with the ability to address technical and artistic challenges.

• In-depth understanding of cinematic principles and composition.

• Experience working with motion capture and/or clip-based animation.

• Proficiency with Linux.

• Strong communication skills (written, verbal, and interpersonal).

• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines whilst maintaining a high quality output.

Nice to have:

• Proficiency scripting in Vex and/or Python.

• Strong understanding of Houdini input/output pipeline.

• Experience with cloth/hair simulation.

• Working knowledge of Maya and rigging.

• Keen eye for how crowds flock and move.

JoinILM

The hiring range for this position in San Francisco is $67,900 to $86,900 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:

ILM San Francisco

Job Posting Primary Business:

ILM San Francisco

Primary Job Posting Category:

Crowds - Studios

Employment Type:

Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:

San Francisco, CA, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:

2026-04-08