
Framestore is a multi-Academy Award-winning creative studio known for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in cinema. From the gravity-defying physics of Gravity to the photo-realistic creatures of Guardians of the Galaxy and The Little Mermaid, we collaborate with the world’s greatest storytellers.
Our Melbourne studio is a high-tech hub of innovation, combining world-class talent with proprietary technology. We don’t just “do” VFX; we design, plan, and execute breathtaking images that set new global standards. At Framestore, we reframe the possible every single day.
Role Overview: Creature FX TD (Melbourne)
| Category | Details |
| Company | Framestore (Oscar-winning VFX Studio) |
| Location | Melbourne, Victoria, Australia |
| Work Model | Hybrid (On-site collaboration + Remote flexibility) |
| Job Type | Full-Time |
| Department | Creature FX TD (CFX) |
| Primary Software | Autodesk Maya (nCloth, Maya Hair/Fur) |
| Secondary Tech | Python, MEL, C++, Unix/Linux, Carbon |
| Core Skills | Simulation of Clothing, Hair, Muscle, and Skin |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible studio (Step-free entry, quiet spaces) |
| Application | Manual review (No AI screening used) |
Key Responsibilities & Workflow
1. Simulation Rig Construction
- Technical Setup: Create robust simulation rigs for complex characters and creatures using Maya and nCloth.
- Proprietary Integration: Utilize and help develop Framestore’s internal toolsets to achieve high-end results that off-the-shelf software cannot provide.
- Anatomical Accuracy: Implement skin and muscle systems that react realistically to underlying skeletal motion.
2. Shot Execution & Delivery
- Dynamic Simulation: Run simulations for cloth, hair, feathers, and fur across various shots, ensuring consistency throughout a sequence.
- Technical Fixes: Identify and resolve “interpenetration” issues (geometry clipping) or simulation “explosions” to provide clean caches to the Lighting team.
- Quality Control: Deliver finished assets that meet the high-detail standards of modern 4K/8K cinema.
3. Pipeline & Collaboration
- Cross-Departmental Liaison: Communicate effectively with Modelling (for topology needs), Rigging (for deformation logic), and Animation (for movement constraints).
- Tool Development: Contribute to the evolution of departmental workflows by identifying bottlenecks and proposing technical solutions.
- Deadline Management: Maintain a disciplined schedule, providing regular updates to Production and Leads to ensure the project stays on track.
Required Skills and Experience
We are looking for a specialist who understands both the “how” and the “why” of creature physics.
- Professional VFX Experience: A proven track record in a similar CFX role within the film or high-end episodic industry.
- Maya Mastery: Thorough, expert-level knowledge of Autodesk Maya is essential.
- Simulation Expertise: Deep understanding of dynamic solvers, specifically for cloth, hair/fur, and feathers.
- Technical Eye: An appreciation for both the aesthetic beauty of a movement and the technical constraints of a render pipeline.
- Team Player: The ability to work within a challenging, deadline-oriented environment while maintaining a positive and collaborative attitude.
“The Framestore Plus” (Bonus Skills)
- Coding: Experience with Python, Mel, or C++ to write scripts that automate repetitive tasks.
- Alternative Solvers: Knowledge of Carbon, Houdini’s Vellum/Wire, or other specialized simulation software.
- OS Knowledge: Comfort working in a Unix/Linux systems environment.
- Anatomy: A strong understanding of animal and human anatomy and how it translates to 3D deformation.
Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
Framestore is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We believe that the more diverse our perspectives are, the more creative our solutions become.
- Diversity: We celebrate talent across all races, genders, religions, and sexual orientations. In the Melbourne film industry, we actively monitor representation to ensure we are building an inclusive environment. For example, current industry statistics show a growing trend of women and underrepresented groups in technical VFX roles (now exceeding 25-30% in many leading studios), and Framestore is committed to leading this charge.
- Accessibility: Our Melbourne studio is designed for everyone. It is fully accessible with step-free entry, accessible toilets, and dedicated quiet spaces for those who need a low-sensory environment.
- Human-Centric Hiring: We review all applications manually. We do not use AI screening bots to filter your talent. We want to see your portfolio and hear your story.
What if you don’t have every skill?
If you look at the list above and see a few gaps, apply anyway. Framestore views job descriptions as guidelines, not rigid barriers. If you have transferable skills from gaming, medical visualization, or software engineering—and a passion for creatures—we want to see your work.
More jobs at Framestore
How to Apply
Ready to join the legacy? Please submit your resume and a link to your portfolio/showreel to: Email: recruiters@framestore.com
Subject Line: Creature FX TD – Melbourne
Note
Please specify if you require any specific adjustments or support during the interview process.