Company: Crafty Apes

Render Wrangler Job Overview Company Name: Crafty Apes Position Title: Render Wrangler Department: Rendering Operations Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (Remote options available) Employment Type: Full-Time Experience Required: 1–3 years in VFX / Animation / Post-Production Work Model: Hybrid or Remote within Australia Key Systems: Deadline, Autodesk Maya, Nuke, Houdini, Linux / Windows Crafty Apes is a premier, full-service global visual effects powerhouse. With a presence in the US, Canada, the UK, and now a rapidly expanding footprint in Australia, we are home to a roster of award-winning artists and technical supervisors renowned for their creative problem-solving. Our portfolio spans the entire spectrum of modern entertainment, from massive studio blockbusters and prestige television to acclaimed independent cinema. Crafty Apes Australia is a vital pillar of our global network. Operating from our central hub in Sydney, we deliver exceptional VFX work while championing a modern, flexible approach to production. We are currently seeking a technically-minded and proactive Render Wrangler to join our growing team. This is an essential role within our Rendering Operations department, ensuring that the heavy computational demands of high-end visual effects are met with efficiency and precision. The Mission: Engine Room of the Studio The Render Wrangler acts as the frontline support for our global rendering infrastructure. In a studio that handles thousands of frames across multiple high-profile projects simultaneously, the render farm is the “engine room” that keeps everything moving. Your mission is to monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize this environment so that artists and producers can meet their deadlines with confidence. This role is a unique blend of technical systems administration, creative problem-solving, and interpersonal collaboration. You aren’t just watching progress bars; you are diagnosing complex software conflicts, managing hardware resources, and communicating critical updates to production leads. Key Responsibilities as Render Wrangler 1. Farm Monitoring and Queue Management Active Oversight: Monitor the render farm and global job queues to ensure all tasks are running efficiently and completing on schedule. Health Metrics: Use dashboards and monitoring systems (like Grafana) to keep an eye on farm health, identifying slow nodes or network bottlenecks before they impact production. Global Support: Coordinate rendering workflows across multiple international sites, ensuring resources are allocated effectively based on project priority. 2. Troubleshooting and Technical Support Issue Resolution: Identify and resolve common render issues, such as stalled jobs, failed tasks, license shortages, and resource conflicts. Log Analysis: Dive into render logs and diagnostics to determine the root cause of failures or excessive render times. Artist Liaison: Assist artists in troubleshooting render-related problems within their scenes, translating technical jargon into clear, actionable advice. 3. Communication and Collaboration Proactive Reporting: Communicate progress, delays, or potential infrastructure risks to producers and leads in a clear and proactive manner. Escalation: Work closely with the Lead Render Farm Engineer and escalate larger pipeline or infrastructure issues to the IT and Pipeline teams when necessary. Continuous Improvement: Contribute innovative ideas to improve render efficiency, automation, and overall workflow reliability. Candidate Profile We are looking for someone who is calm under pressure and possesses a “detective’s mindset” when it comes to technical errors. The ideal candidate enjoys the challenge of a fast-paced environment and takes pride in being the person who “makes things work.” Required Technical Skills Professional Foundation: 1–3 years of experience in a VFX, animation, or post-production environment. Queue Systems: Familiarity with industry-standard render management software (e.g., Deadline, Qube, Tractor, or OpenCue). Software Context: Basic knowledge of how VFX software like Maya, Nuke, or Houdini interacts with a farm environment. OS Versatility: Comfort working in both Linux-based and Windows-based environments. Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills with the ability to prioritize tasks when multiple issues arise simultaneously. Preferred & “Nice-to-Have” Skills Management Tools: Experience with Thinkbox Deadline is highly preferred. Scripting: Basic knowledge of Python or Bash to help automate repetitive tasks or parse logs. Pipeline Understanding: A foundational understanding of lighting, FX, and compositing workflows. Advanced Monitoring: Exposure to V-Ray and monitoring tools like Grafana. Multi-Site Experience: Previous experience working in a studio with multiple geographic locations. Why Join Crafty Apes Australia? We provide a creative, supportive, and inclusive environment where your contribution is visible and valued. Flexible Work: Enjoy the choice of working remotely within Australia or from our Sydney hub. Global Network: Work as part of a world-class team supporting major studio blockbusters. Growth Path: This role is an excellent stepping stone for those interested in moving into Pipeline Engineering, TD roles, or Systems Administration. Supportive Culture: We are committed to an inclusive work culture where everyone, from juniors to seniors, is invited to grow. How to Apply Ready to help us power the next big blockbuster? We invite you to explore this opening and join our global family. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience with render management and your approach to technical troubleshooting. Crafty Apes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diverse teams and are committed to creating an inclusive work culture.

Crafty Apes is a premier, full-service global visual effects powerhouse. With a presence in the US, Canada, the UK, and now a rapidly expanding footprint in Australia, we are home to a roster of award-winning artists and technical supervisors renowned for their creative problem-solving. Our portfolio spans the entire spectrum of modern entertainment, from massive studio blockbusters and prestige television to acclaimed independent cinema. Crafty Apes Australia is a vital pillar of our global network. Operating from our central hub in Sydney, we deliver exceptional VFX work while championing a modern, flexible approach to production. We are currently seeking a visionary Senior Digital Matte Painter to join our growing team. This is a chance to lead the creation of breathtaking digital environments and help define the visual language of world-class projects from the comfort of your own home or our vibrant Sydney studio. Role Snapshot & Benefits At Crafty Apes, we believe that world-class art can be created from anywhere. While our physical heart is in Sydney, our talent is spread across the continent. We offer a competitive package and a supportive culture that prioritizes your growth and well-being. Job Overview Company Name: Crafty Apes Position Title: Senior Digital Matte Painter Location: Sydney, Australia (Hub) or 100% Remote (Australia-wide) Employment Type: Full-Time Experience Required: 5+ years in a Senior or Lead role Work Rights: Open to global applicants (Sponsorship & relocation available) Salary Range: Competitive; commensurate with experience Key Software: Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Maya, Nuke The Crafty Apes Advantage: Flexible Work: 100% remote working arrangements within Australia—choose the city that fits your lifestyle (Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, etc.). Professional Growth: Direct access to industry-leading supervisors and opportunities for training and conference attendance. Inclusive Culture: A creative, supportive environment where diversity is celebrated and every voice is heard. Global Mobility: For international experts, we offer relocation assistance and visa sponsorship to help you join our Australian team. The Mission: Architect of Digital Worlds As a Senior Digital Matte Painter, you are the master of the “big picture.” Your mission is to blend traditional artistic principles with cutting-edge digital technology to create seamless, photo-realistic environments that would be impossible or impractical to film in real life. You aren’t just an individual contributor; you are a creative leader. You will mentor junior artists, troubleshoot complex pipeline issues, and collaborate directly with VFX Supervisors and Directors to establish the “look and feel” of a show. Whether it’s an expansive alien landscape, a historical city reconstruction, or subtle set extensions, your work provides the scale and atmosphere that brings stories to life. Key Responsibilities 1. Creative Leadership & Vision Artistic Direction: Collaborate with Directors and VFX Supervisors to establish the artistic vision and technical approach for complex shots and sequences. World Building: Lead the creation of high-resolution digital matte paintings (DMP) and environment projections for major feature films and television shows. Creative Voice: Act as a key creative voice in project meetings, contributing ideas that enhance the storytelling through environment design. 2. Technical Execution & Integration Advanced Projection: Utilize camera projection techniques in Nuke and Maya to transform 2D paintings into immersive 3D environments. Pipeline Innovation: Develop and implement efficient workflows and techniques to solve unique creative challenges, ensuring the DMP department remains at the cutting edge. Departmental Synergy: Oversee the integration of matte paintings into final shots, working closely with lighting and compositing teams to ensure perfect color, light, and perspective matching. 3. Mentorship & Management Artist Development: Mentor junior and mid-level artists, providing constructive feedback and guiding them through complex technical tasks. Troubleshooting: Serve as the primary point of contact for resolving technical hurdles within the environment pipeline. Candidate Profile We are looking for a veteran artist with a “Director’s eye” and a “Technician’s brain.” You should have a deep love for the craft of environment art and a portfolio that proves it. Required Technical Skills Professional Experience: 5+ years of experience as a digital matte painter in a senior or lead capacity within a high-end VFX studio. Software Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in Adobe Photoshop is a must. VFX Ecosystem: Deep understanding of Nuke (specifically for projections and pre-comps) and Maya (for basic 3D block-outs and projection geometry). Artistic Foundations: An exceptional portfolio demonstrating a total mastery of composition, light, color, perspective, and photo-realism. Technical Knowledge: Extensive understanding of the full VFX pipeline and how DMP interacts with lighting, 3D, and compositing. Leadership Qualities Communication: Strong ability to articulate creative ideas to both technical teams and non-technical stakeholders. Mentorship: A proven track record of helping junior artists improve their skills and grow their careers. Adaptability: The ability to remain calm and focused in a fast-paced, high-pressure production environment. How to Apply Ready to help us build the future of VFX in Australia? We invite you to explore this opening and join our global family. Please submit your resume, a tailored cover letter, and a link to your digital portfolio or reel. Note: We understand that delays can occur in receiving final, cleared shots for your reel. Please ensure that the work samples you provide are as recent and representative of your current skill level as possible. Crafty Apes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diverse teams and are committed to creating an inclusive work culture.

Crafty Apes is a premier, full-service global visual effects powerhouse with a reputation for excellence across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for supporting award-winning artists and technical supervisors, our studio has contributed to the visual storytelling of major studio blockbusters, acclaimed independent films, and prestige television series. We are thrilled to expand our global footprint with Crafty Apes Australia. Based out of our Sydney hub, we are building a world-class team that combines creative problem-solving with cutting-edge technology. Whether you are local to Sydney or looking to work from Adelaide, Melbourne, or Brisbane, we offer a modern, flexible approach to high-end VFX production. We are currently seeking Mid to Senior Animators who are passionate about breathing life into diverse characters and creatures. Role Snapshot & Benefits At Crafty Apes, we value talent over geography. While we have a physical presence in Sydney, we offer 100% remote flexibility for artists across Australia. Job Overview Company Name: Crafty Apes Position Title: Mid–Senior Animator Location: Sydney, Australia (Hub) or 100% Remote (Australia-wide) Employment Type: Full-Time Experience Required: Mid (3+ years) / Senior (5+ years) Work Rights: Open to global applicants (Sponsorship & relocation available) Salary Range: Competitive; commensurate with experience Key Software: Autodesk Maya, ShotGrid, Python / MEL (Senior level) The Mission: Narrative Animation at the Highest Level As an Animator at Crafty Apes, you are not just moving pixels; you are a performer. Your mission is to create expressive, compelling, and high-fidelity keyframe animation that resonates with audiences. Whether you are working on a hyper-realistic creature for a feature film or a stylized character for an episodic series, your focus will be on weight, timing, and performance. You will be part of a collaborative ecosystem, working alongside Animation Directors and Technical Artists to ensure your work is not only visually stunning but technically integrated into the global VFX pipeline. Key Responsibilities 1. High-Fidelity Animation Production Keyframe Mastery: Create polished, high-fidelity keyframe animation that adheres to the project’s specific aesthetic and technical requirements. Performance Capture: Participate in motion capture direction, cleanup, and implementation, ensuring that data-driven movement still feels organic and grounded. Rapid Iteration: Process feedback from dailies and playtesting quickly, refining assets to meet the evolving needs of the production. 2. Pipeline & Technical Collaboration Integration: Work closely with Designers and Technical Artists to ensure animations translate perfectly into the final rendered product. Workflow Innovation: Contribute to the development and refinement of animation tools, scripts, and best practices to improve studio efficiency. Rigging Support: (For Seniors) Assist with rigging and technical animation needs to ensure rigs are optimized for performance. 3. Leadership & Mentorship Growth Culture: Senior animators will mentor junior staff, providing constructive feedback to elevate the team’s collective output. Ownership: Take full responsibility for significant animation sequences, managing deadlines and priorities autonomously in a fast-paced environment. Candidate Profile We are looking for artists who have a deep, intuitive understanding of the “12 Principles of Animation” and the technical chops to execute them in a modern pipeline. Mid-Level Requirements Professional History: At least 3+ years of experience in top-tier feature films or episodic VFX. Portfolio: A reel that demonstrates a mastery of weight, physics, timing, and character appeal. Software: High proficiency in industry-standard 3D packages (primarily Maya) and production tracking software like ShotGrid. Senior-Level Requirements Experience: 5+ years of professional experience, with a track record of owning major sequences. Technical Depth: Expert-level knowledge of character mechanics. Experience with scripting (Python/MEL) or rigging is highly desirable. Self-Management: Proven ability to hit deadlines and prioritize tasks without constant supervision. Leadership: Previous experience in a lead or mentor capacity within a professional studio environmen Why Join Crafty Apes Australia? We provide a creative, supportive, and inclusive environment where your contribution is visible and valued. Remote-First Flexibility: We offer 100% remote working arrangements within Australia—giving you the choice to work where you are most productive. Global Exposure: Work on world-class projects within a global network of artists. Professional Growth: We invest in our people through training opportunities and conference attendance. Global Mobility: For successful international candidates, we offer visa sponsorship and relocation assistance to help you make Australia your new home. How to Apply Ready to join the troop? Please submit your resume, a tailored cover letter, and a link to your latest animation reel. Note: We understand that recent project shots can be delayed due to NDAs; please provide the most recent work samples available to you.