Senior FX TD job at Wētā FX Melbourne, 2026

Wētā FX is globally recognized for pushing the absolute limits of visual effects, and our Melbourne studio is at the heart of our future growth. We are currently inviting Senior FX TD to express their interest in joining our world-class team for an ambitious slate of projects scheduled for 2026.

As an FX TD at Wētā, you aren’t just creating simulations; you are solving the most complex creative and technical puzzles in modern cinema. From massive environmental destruction to intricate, ethereal magical effects, our FX team is the backbone of our visual storytelling.

Job Overview: Senior FX TD

Role Mission: The Intersection of Art and Science

The FX department at Wētā FX consists of over 100 industry-leading artists and engineers. As a Senior FX TD, you will sit at the vital juncture between creative vision and technical execution. You will work in close partnership with R&D, Lighting, and Compositing departments to ensure that FX-driven shots are not only visually stunning but also technically optimized for our proprietary pipeline.

Core Responsibilities:

• Simulation Mastery: Develop and manage complex simulations including large-scale destruction (RBD), fluid dynamics (FLIP), and gaseous effects (Pyro).

• Tool Development: Create and maintain reusable Houdini digital assets (HDAs) and workflows that can be utilized by the wider FX team.

• Look Development: Collaborate with VFX Supervisors to establish the “early look” for abstract, magical, or natural phenomena.

• Problem Solving: Navigate the technical challenges of massive datasets and complex render layers in a Linux-based environment.

• Cross-Department Collaboration: Ensure seamless integration of FX elements with animation and lighting pipelines.

Requirements & Preferred Expertise

We are looking for technical artists who thrive in a collaborative, high-stakes environment.

Mandatory Qualifications:

1. Professional Pedigree: At least 5 years of experience as an FX Artist/TD specifically within the feature film industry.

2. Houdini Generalist Knowledge: Comprehensive mastery of Houdini’s core toolsets, including FLIP, Pyro, and RBD.

3. Linux Proficiency: Comfort working within a high-end Linux production environment is essential.

4. Communication: The ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and work effectively within a large team.

Specialized Skills (Highly Desirable):

• Water Simulations: Previous experience running hero-shot water simulations in a production environment.

• Abstract FX: A portfolio showcasing the development of magical or non-standard effects.

• Destruction: Experience with complex, large-scale rigid body dynamics (RBD) and secondary debris systems.

• Plant/Groom Sim: Experience with plant simulations using Vellum or custom solvers.

The Melbourne Studio Experience

Wētā FX Melbourne is a hub of innovation. By joining our Australian team, you become part of a culture that values open-mindedness and authenticity. We believe that a diversity of backgrounds leads to a diversity of ideas, which is what allows us to continue winning Academy Awards for our craft.

• R&D Focused: FX is integral to our R&D efforts. You will have the opportunity to influence the tools of tomorrow.

• Global Projects: Work on the world’s biggest franchises and most visually demanding independent projects.

• Supportive Culture: We provide a workplace experience that prioritizes the artist’s well-being and creative growth.

Salary Benchmarks for FX Roles (Melbourne 2026)

The following table outlines the projected industry standard compensation for FX professionals in the Melbourne region for the 2026 calendar year:

Note: Salary offers are determined based on specific production experience, technical interview performance, and specialized knowledge of proprietary software.

How to Express Interest

We are actively planning our crew requirements for 2026. If you are passionate about the craft of FX and want to contribute to the next generation of Wētā FX projects, we want to see your work.

Application Requirements:

• Showreel: A link to your latest reel demonstrating high-end feature film FX work.

• Breakdown: A clear document explaining your specific contributions to the shots in your reel (e.g., “created custom solver for…”, “handled all Pyro simulations…”).

• CV: Detailing your history with Linux-based pipelines and Houdini workflows.

Wētā FX is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to provide a discrimination-free experience. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact us at recruitment@wetafx.co.nz.