DNEG is one of the world’s leading visual effects and animation companies, renowned for creating award-winning feature film, television, and multi-platform content. With a global footprint spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and now Australia, we employ over 9,000 creators who push the boundaries of what is possible on screen. Our Sydney studio is a hub of innovation, and we are currently looking for a Senior Environment Generalist TD to join our Shot Finishing team.
Environment Generalist TDs at DNEG are the architects of the impossible. They are passionate collaborators and expert problem solvers who compose spectacular, photorealistic environments for the highest caliber feature film projects. Whether you are crafting a single blade of grass or an entire galaxy, your work will define the visual scale and immersion of our stories.
Job Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | DNEG |
| Job Title | Senior Environment Generalist TD |
| Department | Shot Finishing (Environment Generalist, Lighting & Compositing) |
| Location | Sydney |
| Work Model | Hybrid (Minimum 2 days per week in-office) |
| Employment Type | Full-Time, Permanent |
| Experience Level | Senior (6+ Years Required) |
| Salary Range | Competitive; Estimated AUD 110,000 – AUD 170,000+ annually (based on experience and technical expertise) |
| Software Stack | Houdini, Maya, ZBrush, Substance/Mari, SpeedTree, Gaea, Nuke |
| Reporting To | Environment Supervisor / CG Supervisor |
| Work Authorization | Must have the legal right to work in Australia |
Role Overview
DNEG is seeking an experienced Senior Environment Generalist TD to join its Shot Finishing team in Sydney. This role is focused on delivering high-quality photorealistic environments for feature films, integrating environment creation seamlessly into lighting and compositing pipelines.
As a senior-level technical artist, you will play a key role in both creative execution and technical problem-solving, contributing to complex environment builds ranging from highly detailed natural landscapes to large-scale urban and fantastical environments.
You will collaborate with global teams across multiple departments to ensure that all environment assets and shots meet the highest standards of realism, artistic quality, and pipeline efficiency.
What You’ll Need: Qualifications & Skills
We are looking for industry veterans who have spent years honing their craft on the big screen. You should have a deep understanding of both the “how” and the “why” behind environmental storytelling.
Professional Experience:
- VFX Pedigree: A minimum of 6 years of experience in the VFX industry, specifically working on high-end live-action feature films.
- Technical Mastery: Expert proficiency in Houdini and Maya. You should be comfortable moving between sculpting in ZBrush, texturing in Substance or Mari, and final compositing in Nuke.
- Specialized Tools: Experience with SpeedTree for vegetation and Gaea for terrain generation is highly valued.
- Artistic Foundation: A strong grasp of photography, geology, geography, and architecture. You understand how the natural world works and how to replicate it digitally.
Preferred Technical Skills (Nice to Have):
- Solaris: Experience rendering within the Houdini Solaris (USD) framework.
- Real-time: Familiarity with Unreal Engine and real-time rendering workflows for pre-vis or final pixel.
Candidate Profile: About You
Technical skill is only half the battle. At DNEG, we value individuals who contribute to our culture of collaboration and excellence.
- Storyteller at Heart: You have a keen interest in how environments can enhance a film’s narrative.
- Collaborative Leader: You enjoy supporting and mentoring others within a global team structure.
- Calm Under Pressure: You have a “can-do” attitude and remain focused even when production deadlines are tight.
- Attention to Detail: You are a creative problem solver who notices the small things that make a digital environment feel “real.”
Workplace Flexibility & Location
We believe that great work happens through connection. Our beautiful Sydney office is designed to foster the kind of spontaneous collaboration that drives innovation.
- Hybrid Model: Candidates must be available to work from the Sydney office at least two days per week.
- Relocation: If you are not currently based in Sydney, DNEG is excited to welcome you, but relocation to the area is a requirement for eligibility.
Why Join DNEG?
Joining DNEG means joining a legacy of excellence. We have been recognized with numerous Academy Awards and BAFTAs for our work on films like Dune, Tenet, and Blade Runner 2049.
Our Commitment to You:
- Inclusive Environment: We fundamentally believe that embracing our differences is vital to our success. We provide an equitable and diverse workplace where everyone feels they belong.
- Career Growth: With a global network of studios, the opportunities for movement and advancement are unparalleled.
- Supportive Culture: We offer adjustments and support during the application process to ensure a level playing field for all applicants, including those with disabilities.
Shot Finishing Integration
- Integrate environment assets into lighting and compositing workflows.
- Ensure seamless blending of CG environments with live-action plates.
- Support final shot delivery with high attention to realism and detail.
Digital Matte Painting & 2.5D Workflows
- Utilize Digital Matte Painting (DMP) and 2.5D techniques to enhance environments.
- Combine projection workflows with 3D assets to achieve efficient production results.
- Apply creative approaches based on project requirements.
Procedural & Technical Workflows
- Develop and utilize procedural workflows for:
- Cities and buildings
- Vegetation and ecosystems
- Terrain and geological formations
- Leverage tools such as Houdini and Gaea for scalable environment generation.
- Optimize scenes for rendering efficiency and pipeline compatibility.
Soft Skills & Professional Attributes
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a global team environment.
- High level of organization and self-management.
- Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality.
- Calm and composed under production pressure.
- Proactive problem solver with a positive mindset.
Compensation & Benefits
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | AUD 110,000 – AUD 170,000+ annually |
| Performance Incentives | Project-based and performance-driven growth opportunities |
| Work Environment | Global, collaborative production teams |
| Career Growth | Opportunities across international studios |
| Learning & Development | Access to advanced tools and training resources |
About the Company
DNEG is a globally recognized leader in visual effects, animation, and creative technology, delivering award-winning content across film, television, and digital platforms.
With over 9,000 employees worldwide, DNEG operates across major hubs including:
- North America (Los Angeles, Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver)
- Europe (London)
- Asia (Bangalore, Mohali, Chennai, Mumbai)
- Australia (Sydney)
The company is known for its:
- Cutting-edge VFX pipelines
- High-profile feature film projects
- Commitment to innovation and storytelling excellence
Application Process
Candidates interested in this role at DNEG should submit:
1. Updated Resume / CV
2. Showreel demonstrating environment work
3. Breakdown of technical contributions