Position:
FX Technical Director (R&D Team)
Experience:
6+ Years
Location:
Chennai (On-site)
About Us
Knack Studios is a full-service post-production facility with a focus on rendering yourdreams into cinematic experiences. Spearheaded by filmmakers, Knack Studios ispowered by equipment and technologies available for the first time in South India,making us the preferred post-production studio.In a short span of 7 years, Knack Studios has delivered 800+ successful projects inTamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam & Kannada.Headquartered at Chennai in a state of the art secure 20,000 square feet spread across2 locations and an upcoming 6000 square feet facility in Hyderabad, Knack Studiosoffers services in Sound, Color grading and Visual Effects enabling clients to realizetheir artistic vision.
Job Summary
We are seeking an innovative and highly skilled FX Technical Director (FX TD) to join our R&D Team.You will play a pivotal role in developing advanced FX workflows, simulations, and procedural assetsfor VFX and Animation productions. This role focuses on problem-solving, pipeline optimization, andtool development to improve efficiency and quality across departments.
Job Responsibilities
- Research, develop, and implement cutting-edge FX tools and workflows for production.
- Create procedural setups and simulations (smoke, fire, water, destruction, crowds) in Houdini.
- Collaborate with Python Developers to integrate FX tools into the production pipeline.
- Prototype and test AI-driven solutions for FX processes (automation, lookdev assistance).
- Optimize FX workflows for efficiency, scalability, and render performance.
- Create reusable FX templates and asset libraries for artists.
- Work with LookDev and Asset teams to ensure seamless FX-Asset integration.
- Support R&D initiatives, from concept to final production rollout.
- Document workflows and train production teams on new tools, techniques, and best practices.
- Stay informed about the latest VFX trends, tools, and technologies, bringing innovative ideas into the studio.
Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience as an FX TD/FX Artist in high-end VFX, Animation, or Game environments.
- Expert in Houdini (procedural workflows, simulations, VEX scripting).
- Proficiency in Blender (Geometry Nodes, FX workflows) is a major plus.
- Experience with Unreal Engine FX, Niagara, and real-time FX pipelines is advantageous.
- Strong Python scripting skills for tool creation and pipeline automation.
- Ability to troubleshoot complex FX setups and performance bottlenecks.
- Excellent communication skills; ability to collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams.
- Passion for R&D, innovation, and problem-solving in VFX production.
Nice To Have
- Knowledge of C++, OpenCL, or Shader programming.
- Familiarity with Machine Learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow).
- Experience in developing AI-driven FX tools.
- Previous experience working on real-time projects or virtual production pipelines.
What You’ll Gain
- Work at the forefront of VFX R&D, shaping next-gen workflows.
- Collaborate with a cross-functional team of Python Developers, LookDev Artists, and Production Trainers.
- Opportunity to lead innovative projects that impact global productions.
- Be part of a team focused on efficiency, speed, and artistic quality.