Crowd Simulation Technical Director
Framestore
Montreal, QCThis is a Full Time Job
About the role
Working closely with our Supervisors and department Leads, you'll help craft the dynamic motion and behaviour of digital crowds that fill the worlds of our most ambitious projects.
You'll use both proprietary and off-the-shelf software to create visually rich simulations, ensuring a balance between realism and artistry. Collaboration is at the heart of the role - you'll work hand-in-hand with teams across Modelling, Rigging, Animation, Motion Capture, and Lighting to deliver seamless crowd work that integrates perfectly into the final image.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives on both creative problem-solving and technical innovation, with the chance to contribute to the development of new tools and techniques that push the boundaries of what's possible in visual effects.
You will also:
• Create and run crowd simulations as briefed by the CG or VFX Supervisor
• Develop locomotion and motion behaviours to achieve varied and believable performances.
• Support the development of new crowd tools and workflows.
• Maintain strong communication with Production and Leads to meet deadlines and quality standards.
What we're looking for:
• Strong working knowledge of Houdini, particularly Houdini Crowds and Agent Definitions (Maya experience a plus).
• Creative problem-solving and an understanding of both aesthetic and technical requirements.
• Solid grasp of animation principles and an eye for motion.
• Excellent communication, collaboration and organisational skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Familiarity with VFX pipelines and workflows across multiple software packages.
• Experience working in Unix/Linux environments.
• Adaptability and a willingness to learn new tools and processes.
You might also have:
• Previous experience in a similar crowd or simulation role.
• Programming or scripting experience (e.g. VEX, Python, C++).
• Understanding of particle systems and procedural animation.
• Experience developing tools, scripts, or plug-ins to streamline workflows.
• Familiarity with motion capture data integration.
Application Process
To apply, please complete the linked application form. For additional information, contact us at recruiters@framestore.com with the subject line: Crowd TD - Montreal
Additional Information
Framestore is a multi-Oscar-winning creative Film & Episodic studio that collaborates with some of the greatest storytellers in film today, working alongside directors and producers throughout the complete filmmaking process to design, plan, and create stunning visuals. The studio focuses on innovative creative solutions to support artistic visions and set new standards for visual effects in cinema. Combining talent and technology, Framestore brings life to everything it creates, with a team that includes Crowd Technical Directors who specialize in simulating and animating tens of thousands of characters for high-end visual effects films. Driven by creativity and inspired by the future, Framestore aims to reframe the possible every day.
