Illusorium Studios is searching for Animation TD

Illusorium Studios is searching for a high-caliber Animation TD (Technical Director) to join our elite production team in Madrid. This is an immediate-start role designed for a technical architect who thrives at the intersection of creative storytelling and digital engineering. As an Animation TD, you are the backbone of the department, ensuring that our artists have the most efficient, stable, and cutting-edge tools available to bring characters to life.

If you are a Python expert with a deep understanding of Autodesk Maya and USD workflows, and you enjoy the challenge of optimizing complex pipelines, Illusorium is the studio where your innovations will have a direct impact on AAA-quality projects.

Job Overview: Animation TD

The Mission: Technical Excellence in Motion

At Illusorium Studios, the Animation TD’s mission is to bridge the gap between “what is possible” and “what is efficient.” You will be responsible for maintaining a pipeline that is not only scalable but also guarantees that our studio’s signature artistic quality is never compromised by technical debt.

You will act as the primary technical partner for the Animation Supervisor, translating artistic requirements into functional tools. Your work ensures that animators spend less time fighting with the software and more time perfecting the performances that define our studio’s reputation.

About Illusorium Studios

Illusorium Studios is a premier creative powerhouse based in Madrid, specializing in high-fidelity 3D animation and visual effects for global audiences. We believe that the best work comes from a balance of artistic passion and technical mastery. Join our “Best Team” and work in an unparalleled environment where your technical contributions will shape the future of our cinematic output.

Detailed Job Description

1. High-Level Technical Support

You are the first point of contact for the animation team when technical hurdles arise. Whether it is a rig performance issue, a scene assembly error, or a software crash, you will diagnose and resolve problems with speed and precision. You don’t just “fix” bugs; you investigate root causes to prevent them from recurring across the project.

2. Custom Tool Development & Scripting

Automation is at the heart of what we do. You will be responsible for:

• Developing Custom Scripts: Creating Python-based tools within Maya to streamline repetitive tasks such as keyframe management, posing libraries, or batch processing.
• Pipeline Integration: Writing modular code that integrates seamlessly with our studio-wide pipeline, ensuring that data flows correctly from Animation to Rigging, CFX, and Lighting.
• UI/UX for Artists: Building intuitive interfaces (using PySide/PyQt) that make complex technical tools accessible to creative artists.

3. Pipeline Optimization & Performance

In a modern 3D environment, performance is everything. You will:

• Identify Bottlenecks: Use profiling tools to analyze Maya’s evaluation graph and identify what is slowing down playback.
• Real-time Solutions: Implement techniques (such as GPU overrides or proxy workflows) to ensure animators can work in real-time even with high-complexity character rigs.
• USD Implementation: Help manage our Universal Scene Description (USD) workflow, ensuring that assets are lightweight, functional, and technically sound throughout the production lifecycle.

4. Cross-Departmental Collaboration

The Animation TD does not work in a vacuum. You will collaborate closely with:

• Rigging: To ensure character rigs are optimized for animator needs and follow naming conventions.
• Pipeline/Core TD: To ensure animation tools align with the broader studio infrastructure.
• Environment & Layout: To ensure smooth scene assembly within the USD/Solaris ecosystem.

5. Training & Documentation

A tool is only as good as the person using it. You will:

• Technical Guides: Write clear, accessible documentation for every tool and script you deploy.
• Workshops: Lead training sessions to onboard animators to new methodologies or updated pipeline features, fostering a culture of technical literacy within the team.

Experience and Knowledge Requirements

We are seeking a candidate who possesses a “developer mindset” but understands the nuances of the animation craft.

Core Requirements:

• Software Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of Autodesk Maya is non-negotiable.
• Programming Skills: Expert-level Python (specifically for Maya APIs like maya.cmds and PyMEL).
• USD Expertise: Solid experience working with USD (Universal Scene Description) and an understanding of its benefits in a multi-departmental pipeline.
• Industry Pedigree: A minimum of 2–3 years of experience in high-end animated feature films or series.
• Communication: Proficiency in English is required to collaborate within our international production environment.

Bonus Points:

• C++ API: Experience with the Maya C++ API for writing high-performance plugins or nodes.
• Rigging/Animation Background: Previous hands-on experience as a rigger or animator, giving you direct empathy for the artists you support.
• Look-Dev Knowledge: Familiarity with Arnold, Solaris, or other rendering and scene assembly tools.

What Illusorium Studios Offers You

Illusorium Studios offer a world-class studio culture where technical innovation is celebrated.

Professional & Financial Benefits

• Stability: A permanent (Indefinite) contract with a studio that has a robust pipeline of future projects.
• Competitive Salary: Your pay will be commensurate with your experience and the specialized technical skills you bring to the table.
• Flex Compensation: A flexible benefits package that includes transportation, restaurant tickets, childcare support, and private health insurance.
• Cutting-Edge Tech: Work with the latest hardware and software in a studio that is constantly evolving its technical stack.

Work-Life Balance & Wellbeing

• Generous Leave: 23 days of annual vacation plus 2 additional discretionary days off.
• Flexible Schedule: A flexible check-in time helps you manage your day without the stress of a rigid clock-in.
• Health First: Access to comprehensive private health insurance and employee mental health support programs.

Studio Perks

• Premier Facilities: Our Madrid office (28020) features modern creative spaces, dedicated chill-out areas, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
• Daily Sustenance: We provide free fresh fruit, high-quality coffee, bread, and soft drinks every day.
• Social Culture: Participate in regular team-building events, studio parties, and Friday social hours including friendly gaming tournaments.

The Hiring Process

1. Technical Portfolio/Code Review: We will evaluate your CV and any code samples (GitHub/Gists) or technical reels.
2. Screening Call: A brief introductory chat to discuss your background and the project scope.
3. Technical Interview: A deep dive into Maya architecture, USD workflows, and your approach to problem-solving.
4. Final Meeting: A chance to meet the Animation and Pipeline teams to ensure a great cultural fit.
5. Offer: Welcome to the Illusorium team for an immediate start!

How to Apply

If you are a technical problem-solver who is passionate about the future of animation technology, we want to hear from you.

Note: This position is for an immediate start and is located on-site in Madrid, Spain.

Please submit your CV, code samples, and a link to your technical reel via our application form. We look forward to seeing how your expertise can help us push the boundaries of what is possible at Illusorium Studios!