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Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

3D FX Artist | Guru Studio, Canada

Guru Studio logo.svg festybay

  Guru Studio is seeking an experienced, creatively driven 3D FX Artist to join the production team for the world’s #1 smash-hit animated children’s series, PAW Patrol. As this award-winning, action-packed global phenomenon enters its second decade of production, our studio is embarking on highly ambitious milestones. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the most recognizable and beloved children’s properties in entertainment history. In this role 3D FX Artist, you will be responsible for designing and implementing dynamic, stylized 3D effects—ranging from environmental elements like rain and dust to complex interactions like water and fire. Operating under a hybrid work model out of our vibrant downtown Toronto studio, you will utilize sideFX Houdini alongside our proprietary in-house pipelines to deliver high-quality visual effects that align with the established aesthetic of the show. If you are a collaborative problem-solver with a passion for high-end episodic animation, this role provides an exceptional platform to showcase your craft to a massive global audience. Job Overview : 3D FX Artist For a quick, comprehensive reference regarding this professional vacancy, please review the core parameters outlined below: Key Metric Specification & Details Hiring Company Guru Studio Job Title 3D FX Artist Associated IP PAW Patrol (Season Production / New Cycles) Job Type / Contract Fixed-Term Contract (Approximately 35 Weeks) Vacancy Status Active, current opening tied directly to a live animation project Work Model Hybrid (Remote flexibility with a downtown Toronto studio available) Location Toronto, Ontario, Canada Minimum Experience 4+ Years in animated television and/or feature film Primary Software SideFX Houdini (In-depth knowledge is mandatory) Secondary Software Redshift (Rendering) and Foundry Nuke (Compositing) Advanced Pipeline Assets USD, Solaris, and Redshift Shaders (Major Assets)     Role Overview & Strategic Impact At Guru Studio, our 3D FX Artists do not simply run automated simulations; they are digital craftsmen who manipulate physics to support character performance and comedic timing. Because PAW Patrol features highly stylized, snappy, cartoon-style animation, your effects must feel integrated into the show’s specific universe rather than leaning into hyper-realism. You will work as a critical link between the Asset department and the Lighting/Compositing teams. A primary component of your strategic impact will involve finding creative, optimized solutions for complex scenes. This means thinking structurally and collaborating with asset artists to generate lightweight, efficient visual tricks without default-reliance on heavy, time-consuming simulations. This technical and artistic balance ensures that production moving at a fast-paced television schedule remains optimized, visually stunning, and on time. Key Responsibilities as 3D FX Artist As a 3D FX Artist on this production, your day-to-day operations will blend creative artistry, technical pipeline navigation, and clear communication. Your core responsibilities include: 1. FX Creation & Stylization Dynamic Asset Generation: Design, simulate, and implement high-quality 3D FX elements, including but not limited to dust clouds, rain, fire, smoke, mud, and complex water interactions. Physics Manipulation: Artfully manipulate simulation physics inside Houdini to match the snappy, exaggerated timing and weight of stylized cartoon animation. Non-Simulated Solutions: Partner closely with the asset team to generate clever, creative structural workarounds to achieve required visual goals without defaulting to heavy, resource-intensive simulations. 2. Pipeline Execution & Delivery Schedule Discipline: Complete all assigned technical and artistic tasks on schedule, ensuring that fast-paced weekly episodic deadlines are met consistently. Pipeline Integration: Follow established studio workflows, asset tracking pipelines, and file structures. Utilize advanced USD and Solaris frameworks where applicable to pass assets efficiently down the pipeline. Risk Management: Maintain highly proactive communication with your FX Lead, flagging potential technical bottlenecks, render risks, or timeline challenges before they impact the crew.   Required Skills, Knowledge, and Expertise Candidates must possess a refined combination of television production experience, specialized software mastery, and soft-skill accountability. Professional Qualifications Industry Tenure: Minimum of 4+ years of professional production experience working within animated television series, feature films, or premium VFX environments. Houdini Expertise: In-depth, production-proven knowledge of SideFX Houdini is an absolute requirement for this position. Creative Portfolio: A strong, professional portfolio/demo reel showcasing clean timing, varied FX scales (fluid, particle, pyro), and a keen eye for composition. Highly Valued Assets (Nice-to-Haves) Proven rendering experience using Redshift and compositing skills inside Foundry Nuke. Direct production familiarity with modern scene-description pipelines, specifically USD (Universal Scene Description), Solaris, and custom Redshift Shaders. Soft Skills & Core Values Independent Problem Solving: Ability to take directorial prompts and independently troubleshoot technical assets inside the engine. Transparent Communication: A collaborative, team-oriented mindset with the willingness to share workflow insights and receive constructive creative feedback. Commitment to Quality: Pride in your craftsmanship, ensuring that final renders always reflect a high standard of visual polish.   Why Join Guru Studio? Guru Studio is an industry leader in animated storytelling, celebrating over twenty years of bringing recognizable properties to global audiences. We focus heavily on cultivating a supportive workspace built around courage, purpose, inspiration, integrity, transparency, and empowerment. Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy the flexibility to work from home while maintaining access to our beautiful, fully equipped downtown Toronto studio for face-to-face collaboration, team-building, and social connectivity. Professional Growth: We actively encourage team members to scale their skill sets with us by providing internal learning opportunities and technical exposure. Comprehensive Well-being: Access an extensive health and wellness benefits plan, alongside dedicated extended mental health services and psychological support networks. Community & Giving: Participate in local and global philanthropic initiatives organized through our passionate, studio-backed charity committee, Guru Gives. Accessibility & Diversity Commitment Guru Studio is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable work environment that celebrates the diverse identities of its global workforce. We welcome applications from people of all races, religions, genders, indigenous backgrounds, and people with disabilities. Furthermore, we are dedicated to providing a fully accessible candidate experience during our recruitment process. If you require accommodations at any stage due to a disability, you may request it at any time, and Guru will work diligently to accommodate your individual needs up to the point of undue hardship.

88 Pictures is hiring Lighting Supervisor, Toronto Studio

88 pictures

Job Overview Company Name: 88 Pictures Job Title: Lighting Supervisor Location: Toronto, Canada Specialization: High-Quality Animated Storytelling Core Requirement: Mandatory hands-on experience with Katana Reporting Structure: Reports to CG Supervisor / Director Industry: Animation / Visual Effects Role Level: Senior / Supervisory Position Primary Responsibility: Overseeing lighting pipeline and shot quality across animated productions 88 Pictures | Toronto Studio At 88 Pictures, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of animated storytelling for a global audience. Our Toronto studio is expanding, and we are looking for a visionary Lighting Supervisor to lead our team in crafting cinematic, visually stunning frames. As a supervisor, you will bridge the gap between artistic intent and technical execution. You will mentor a talented team of artists, ensuring that every shot maintains the highest level of visual consistency and emotional impact. Key Responsibilities 1. Artistic Leadership & Supervision Team Guidance: Lead and mentor the lighting team to produce world-class imagery while fostering a collaborative studio environment. Visual Consistency: Maintain a high standard of visual quality and continuity across all sequences and shots. Cinematic Quality: Work closely with Directors to bring a cinematic eye to lighting setups, enhancing the narrative through light, shadow, and color. 2. Technical Excellence Katana Mastery: Utilize expert-level knowledge of Katana to develop robust lighting templates and workflows for the department. Workflow Optimization: Identify and implement technical solutions to streamline the lighting and rendering pipeline. Problem Solving: Troubleshoot complex lighting issues and render bottlenecks to ensure production milestones are met. 3. Collaboration & Communication Departmental Synergy: Coordinate with Upstream (Lookdev/Assets) and Downstream (Compositing) departments to ensure seamless asset handoffs. Feedback Integration: Effectively translate creative feedback into actionable technical instructions for the lighting artists. Required Qualifications Proven Experience: Significant experience in a leadership or senior lighting role within high-end 3D animation or VFX. Software Expertise: Deep, hands-on proficiency in Katana is absolutely mandatory for this position. Artistic Eye: A strong portfolio demonstrating an advanced understanding of composition, color theory, and digital cinematography. Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage, inspire, and develop a team under production deadlines. Why Join 88 Pictures? 88 Pictures offers a dynamic environment where “pushing boundaries” isn’t just a phrase—it’s our daily mission. Joining our Toronto team means working on prestigious global projects where your leadership directly shapes the final look of the film.

Rigger job in Toronto 2026 – Soho VFX

Soho VFX

Rigger Job Overview Company Name : Soho VFX Job Type : Full-Time / Permanent Location : Toronto, Ontario (Hybrid/In-Studio) Experience Level : 3+ Years in Feature Film or high-end TV Primary Tools : Autodesk Maya Programming/ScriptingPython (Required), MEL, CSH, TCL, PERL Mandatory Residency : Must be an Ontario Resident The architectural backbone of any great visual effects sequence is the rig. At Soho VFX, we understand that an animator’s performance is only as good as the puppet they are provided. We are currently seeking an elite Rigger to join our Toronto-based team. This role is designed for a technical artist who thrives at the intersection of complex anatomy, mechanical engineering, and high-end software development. If you are looking for a rigger job in Toronto that challenges your ability to build robust, intuitive systems for both hero creatures and complex mechanical props, Soho VFX offers the ideal environment to push your craft to the limit. Detailed Responsibilities: Engineering the Digital Performance As a Rigger at Soho VFX, your primary objective is to empower animators. You aren’t just placing joints; you are building a user-centric interface for a digital being. 1. Character and Prop Rigging Control Systems: Implement sophisticated animation control systems for a wide variety of assets. This includes high-resolution hero characters as well as low-resolution proxies for layout and crowd systems. Deformation Excellence: Utilize bone and blend-shape-driven systems to achieve realistic facial animation. You will be expected to create rigs that preserve volume and adhere to the physical realities of muscle and bone. Versatility: Set up rigs for bipeds, quadrupeds, and non-organic mechanical props, ensuring that each system is “animation-friendly”—intuitive, fast, and stable. 2. Pipeline Development and Maintenance Scripting for Speed: Utilize Python and MEL to automate rigging tasks, build custom UI controls, and maintain the studio’s animation pipeline. Tool Creation: Design and implement tools that allow for motion capture transfer, animation sharing between disparate rigs, and batch processing of asset updates. Procedural Workflows: Leverage procedural mentalities (and potentially tools like Houdini) to create scalable rigging solutions for crowds or complex mechanical assemblies. 3. Support and Troubleshooting Artist Relations: Work directly with animators to modify and maintain rigs based on their specific performance needs. You are the “pit crew” for the animation department, troubleshooting issues in real-time. Quality Control: Ensure all work aligns with the studio’s technical standards and integrates seamlessly into the lighting and rendering stages of the pipeline. Innovation: Stay calm under the pressure of deadlines while identifying long-term technical improvements to the character pipeline. Professional Qualifications To stand out for this rigger job in Toronto, you must possess a unique blend of mathematical logic and artistic intuition. Technical Requirements Maya Mastery: Deep, expert-level knowledge of Maya’s rigging toolset (Deformers, Constraints, Matrix math, and Node Editor). Scripting Fluency: Professional experience with Python is mandatory. Familiarity with CSH, TCL, or PERL is highly beneficial for legacy pipeline support. Simulations: Proven experience setting up rigs for secondary dynamics, including skin, muscle, and crowd simulations. Procedural Knowledge: While Maya is the hub, experience with procedural workflows in Houdini or Blender is considered a major asset in our evolving pipeline. Artistic and Anatomical Fundamentals Anatomy: A profound understanding of skeletal and muscular structures for both humans and animals. You must know how a shoulder joint moves in reality to replicate it in a rig. Animation Background: Having previous experience as a modeller or animator is a massive plus. It allows you to anticipate an animator’s needs before they even open the file. Visual Detail: A keen eye for organic deformation and a drive to eliminate “mechanical” or “rubbery” movement in organic rigs. Professional Soft Skills Communication: You must be able to translate complex technical concepts into simple instructions for animators and supervisors. Independence and Teamwork: Ability to work autonomously on complex problems while remaining a collaborative “team player” during high-pressure delivery windows. Why Choose Soho VFX in Toronto? Toronto’s VFX sector is a global leader, and Soho VFX is at the forefront of the city’s technical innovation. The Ontario Advantage: By being an Ontario resident, you tap into a stable production ecosystem supported by long-term tax credits and a massive influx of streaming and theatrical projects. Challenging Assets: We don’t do “simple.” You will be rigging creatures and assets that require the highest level of technical ingenuity. Collaborative Spirit: Our rigging department works closer with animation and modelling than at almost any other studio. You will see your tools directly impact the final look of a film. The Anatomy of a Soho Rig [Image Description: A technical breakdown showing a character rig: The “Skeleton” layer, the “Muscle/Fat” simulation layer, and the “Final Mesh” layer with a user-friendly GUI control panel on the side.] As the diagram above suggests, our rigging philosophy is layered. We build for performance first, ensuring that our animators have the tactile control they need to win awards. Application Requirements To apply for this rigger job in Toronto, please ensure your submission to jobs@sohovfx.com includes: The Rigging Reel: We want to see more than just a finished animation. Show us your “behind the scenes”—demonstrate the control handles, the range of motion (ROM), and how the mesh deforms under extreme poses. Coding Samples: Provide a snippet of Python or MEL code you’ve written to solve a specific rigging problem. Resume & Cover Letter: Clearly state your years of experience in feature film/TV and confirm your Ontario residency. Salary & Compensation Table (2026 Market Projections) Rigging is a highly specialized “bridge” role that requires deep knowledge of both art and code. In the current Toronto market, compensation reflects the scarcity of artists who can balance anatomical accuracy with pipeline-ready scripting. Experience Level Annual Salary Range (CAD) Specialized Skillsets Junior Rigger $65,000 – $82,000 Biped/Quadruped basics, skinning, basic MEL. Intermediate Rigger $85,000 – $115,000 Custom solvers, facial systems, Python automation. Senior Rigger $120,000 – $155,000+ Muscle/Cloth sims, Pipeline architecture, R&D. Rigging Supervisor $160,000 – $195,000+ Workflow strategy, cross-dept. leadership, tool dev.

Tracking artist job in Toronto 2026 – Soho VFX

Soho VFX

Job Overview Company Name : Soho VFX Job Type : Full-Time / Permanent Location : Toronto, Ontario (Hybrid/In-Studio) Experience Level : 3+ Years in professional live-action VFX Primary Tools : PFTrack, Autodesk Maya Salary Range : $85,000 – $140,000 CAD (Commensurate with experience) Mandatory Residency : Must be an Ontario Resident In the visual effects pipeline, the Tracking Artist is the cartographer of the digital world. At Soho VFX, we know that every high-end character performance and explosive simulation is only as good as the foundation it sits upon. We are currently seeking a highly technical and detail-oriented Tracking Artist to join our team in Ontario. If you are looking for a tracking artist job in Toronto that challenges your understanding of spatial geometry, camera physics, and 3D environment reconstruction, Soho VFX offers a collaborative and cutting-edge workspace. Detailed Responsibilities: Defining the 3D Space A Tracking Artist at Soho VFX is a hybrid of a photographer, a mathematician, and a 3D modeler. Your responsibilities include: 1. 3D Camera Reconstruction Camera Solving: Use industry-standard software (primarily PFTrack) to recreate the exact orientation, focal length, and movement of live-action cameras within a 3D Cartesian space. Complex Solves: Handle difficult plates involving fast pans, motion blur, and lack of parallax by utilizing survey data and nodal pan techniques. Lens Calibration: Analyze and remove lens distortion using distortion grids to ensure CG elements align perfectly with the live-action glass. 2. Object Matchmoving Rigid Body Tracking: Match the movement of props or vehicles within the scene to allow for digital replacements or enhancements. Non-Rigid Body Tracking: Animate geometry to match moving characters or deforming surfaces (e.g., skin or clothing) to facilitate digital make-up or interaction. 3. Environment Layout and Scene Assembly Data Integration: Build 1:1 scale layouts in Maya using a variety of onset data, including LiDAR scans, photogrammetry, and set surveys. Proxy Modeling: Create low-resolution 3D proxy geometry of the onset environment to allow for accurate light shadows and occlusions. Scene Scaling: Ensure the 3D world matches real-world measurements, allowing the Animation and FX departments to work with realistic physics and scale. 4. Collaborative Excellence Data Verification: Work with camera data from external sources (onset data sheets) to troubleshoot and verify solves. Downstream Support: Collaborate with the Animation and Lighting departments to ensure the scene layout is optimized for their specific needs. Studio Culture: Contribute to a positive, productive, and collaborative work environment where knowledge sharing is encouraged. Professional Qualifications To be successful in this tracking artist job in Toronto, you must possess a “meticulous” mindset. In tracking, a one-pixel slip is a failure; we are looking for artists who strive for perfection. Technical Skills Software Mastery: Expert-level knowledge of PFTrack is required. Proficiency in Maya for scene assembly is mandatory. The “Plus” Stack: While PFTrack is our primary tool, experience with 3DEqualizer, Syntheyes, or NukeX tracking is a significant asset. Perspective & Physics: A deep understanding of camera physics, including sensor sizes, focal lengths, and the way light interacts with lenses. Asset Familiarity: Experience working with LiDAR data and survey photography to ground your solves in physical reality. Soft Skills and Experience VFX Pedigree: A minimum of 3 years experience working on live-action feature films or high-end television projects. Detail Orientation: A keen eye for subtle motion and the ability to spot “sliding” or “jitter” that others might miss. Problem Solving: The ability to find creative solutions for “unsolvable” plates (e.g., shots with no tracking markers or extreme motion blur). Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills for documenting lens data and communicating with supervisors. Why Secure a Tracking Artist Job in Toronto? Toronto is a premier destination for VFX professionals, and Soho VFX is at the heart of that community. Project Diversity: At Soho VFX, you won’t just track one type of shot. You will work on everything from intimate digital-double makeup to massive, city-wide environmental destructions. Technological Integration: Our pipeline is designed to make your life easier, with integrated tools for LiDAR and photogrammetry processing. Career Trajectory: Tracking/Matchmove is the best way to learn the fundamentals of the VFX pipeline. Many of our senior animators and supervisors began their careers in this department. The Anatomy of a Soho VFX Solve [Image Description: A split screen showing a raw live-action plate with tracking points on the left, and a Maya viewport with the camera path and proxy environment geometry on the right.] As illustrated in the workflow above, your work is the “skeleton” of the shot. Without a perfect solve, the most beautiful render in the world will still look like a “sticker” on the plate. Application Requirements If you are an Ontario resident ready to take on this tracking artist job in Toronto, please submit the following: The Matchmove Reel: We want to see your “points.” Show us your solves with the grid, the proxy geometry, and the final integrated shot. The Technical Breakdown: Explicitly state the software used and the data provided (e.g., “Solved handheld move using PFTrack and 24mm survey data; built proxy architecture in Maya”). Proof of Residency: As an Ontario-based role, please confirm your residency status in your cover letter. Salary & Compensation Table (2026 Market Data) The compensation for a tracking artist job in Toronto reflects the specialized nature of matchmoving. As the first step in the 3D pipeline, the accuracy of your work dictates the success of every department that follows. Experience Level Annual Salary Range (CAD) Key Deliverables Junior Tracking Artist $52,000 – $65,000 Static camera solves, basic object tracking. Intermediate Tracker $70,000 – $95,000 Complex handheld moves, non-rigid body matchmove. Senior Tracking Artist $100,000 – $130,000+ LiDAR integration, survey data, lead-level oversight. Matchmove Supervisor $135,000 – $160,000 Sequence setup, lens distortion pipelines, team management.

Compositor Job in Toronto 2026 – Soho VFX

Soho VFX

Compositor Job Overview Company Name : Soho VFX Job Type : Full-Time / Permanent / Contract Location : Toronto, Ontario (Hybrid options for local residents) Experience Level : Intermediate to Senior (3+ Years preferred) Primary Tools : Foundry Nuke Salary Range : $85,000 – $140,000 CAD (Commensurate with experience) Mandatory Residency : Must be an Ontario Resident (for OCASE tax credit eligibility) The final image of a blockbuster film is forged in the compositing department. It is where pixels become poetry and where disparate elements—live-action plates, CG characters, and FX simulations—are seamlessly fused into a single, believable reality. Soho VFX, a premier studio in the heart of Ontario, is currently seeking a skilled Compositor to join our team. As a compositor job in Toronto candidate, you will be joining a studio known for its “invisible” effects and high-stakes creature work. We are looking for artists who possess a “pixel-perfect” eye and the technical stamina to deliver world-class imagery on tight schedules. Detailed Responsibilities: The Final Creative Polish At Soho VFX, a Compositor is much more than a “tech-check” artist. You are a digital cinematographer responsible for the following: 1. Seamless CG Integration Your primary objective is to integrate photorealistic CG elements (characters, creatures, and props) into live-action plates. This requires a masterful understanding of: Lighting and Shadow Matching: Ensuring the CG elements reflect the light direction and color temperature of the plate. Atmospherics: Adding “air” between the camera and the CG asset via black levels, haze, and depth-based color grading. Grain and Lens Effects: Matching the digital render to the specific lens characteristics (distortion, chromatic aberration, and grain) of the original camera. 2. Advanced 2D and 3D Techniques Keying and Extraction: Pulling clean keys from green/blue screens, even in difficult conditions with motion blur or fine hair detail. Tracking and Matchmoving: Utilizing Nuke’s 3D environment to project textures, clean up plates, or track elements into complex moving shots. Digital Paint and Prep: Performing high-level “beauty work,” rig removal, and plate cleaning to ensure the shot is pristine before delivery. 3. Collaborative Production Culture Efficiency: Maintaining a high level of productivity while meeting the fast-paced deadlines of feature film production. Mentorship and Positivity: Soho VFX prides itself on a supportive environment. You will be expected to share knowledge with peers and help promote a collaborative team spirit. Direction and Feedback: Responding positively to critiques from the Compositing Supervisor and VFX Director, iterating quickly to reach the final “Final.” Professional Qualifications To stand out for this compositor job in Toronto, you must demonstrate both technical mastery of Nuke and a deep artistic understanding of the photographic image. Technical Requirements Nuke Proficiency: You should live and breathe the node graph. We expect comfort with everything from simple merges to complex Deep Compositing and 3D camera projections. Color Science: A solid understanding of linear workflows, color spaces (ACES), and how to read histograms and waveforms. Python/Gizmo Knowledge: While not mandatory, the ability to write basic Python scripts or create custom Nuke Gizmos to streamline your workflow is a significant asset. Artistic Requirements The “Photographic Eye”: You must be able to look at a shot and immediately identify why it “doesn’t look right,” whether it’s a mismatch in black points, edge softness, or perspective. Attention to Detail: An obsession with edges, spill suppression, and grain consistency. Foundational Art Skills: A background in photography or traditional painting is highly valued, as it informs your understanding of light and composition. Why Pursue a Compositing Career in Toronto? Toronto is currently one of the world’s leading VFX hubs, offering a unique blend of high-budget Hollywood work and a high quality of life. Stable Ecosystem: With the constant flow of production from Netflix, Amazon, and major studios, a compositor job in Toronto offers more long-term stability than many other global markets. Technological Leadership: Toronto studios like Soho VFX are at the forefront of adopting new technologies, from AI-assisted rotoscoping to real-time rendering integration. Community: The “VFX Toronto” network is vast and supportive, offering constant opportunities for professional development and peer networking. Application Requirements Soho VFX is looking for artists who can prove their skills through their work. Your application must include: The Demo Reel: Highlight your best integration work. We prefer to see a “Before and After” (the raw plate, the CG passes, and the final comp) so we can see exactly how you solved the shot. The Breakdown: A detailed document explaining your process for each shot. Did you use a 3D projection? How did you handle the spill? Ontario Residency Proof: Please confirm in your application that you are currently a resident of Ontario. Salary & Compensation Table (2026 Market Data) The compensation for a compositor job in Toronto reflects the artist’s role as the “final gatekeeper” of quality. Since compositors are responsible for the ultimate look of the film, their expertise in color science and photorealism is highly rewarded. Experience Level Annual Salary Range (CAD) Key Skills & Responsibilities Junior Compositor $58,000 – $72,000 Roto/Paint, basic keying, 2D tracking. Mid-Level Compositor $75,000 – $105,000 CG integration, 3D projection, advanced keying. Senior Compositor $110,000 – $150,000+ Look-dev, complex 3D environments, sequence lead. Comp Supervisor $155,000 – $190,000+ Pipeline management, client reviews, tech-spec.

Houdini FX artist job in Toronto – Soho VFX

Soho VFX

Houdini FX artist Job Overview Company Name : Soho VFX Job Type : Full-Time / Permanent (Project-based contracts available) Location : Full-Time / Permanent (Project-based contracts available) Experience Level : Intermediate to Senior (2+ Years Minimum) Primary Tools : ShotGrid (Shotgun), ftrack, Microsoft Excel, Asana Salary Range : $85,000 – $140,000 CAD (Commensurate with experience) Mandatory Residency : Must be an Ontario Resident In the high-stakes world of cinematic visual effects, the FX Artist is the master of chaos and physics. Soho VFX, a premier studio based in the heart of Ontario’s production hub, is currently looking for a talented Houdini FX Artist to join our elite team. As we move into a packed 2026 production schedule involving several major franchise films, we are seeking artists who can blend technical engineering with artistic storytelling. If you are looking for a Houdini FX artist job in Toronto that pushes the boundaries of simulation and proceduralism, Soho VFX provides the ideal environment to showcase your skills. Detailed Responsibilities: The Architect of Destruction As a Houdini Artist at Soho VFX, you are responsible for more than just “making things blow up.” You are creating the atmospheric and physical soul of a shot. 1. Dynamic Simulation & Procedural Creation Atmospherics: Develop high-fidelity simulations for fire, smoke, and dust (Pyro) that interact realistically with the environment. Liquid Dynamics: Create complex fluid simulations, utilizing advanced techniques like upres, clustering, and wedging to achieve large-scale oceanic effects or small-scale viscous liquids. Destruction (RBD): Design rigid body dynamics for structural collapses, ensuring debris and fractures adhere to real-world architectural physics. Proceduralism: Build reusable Houdini Digital Assets (HDAs) that allow for rapid iterations across multiple shots in a sequence. 2. Technical Rendering and Integration FX Look-Dev: Produce high-quality test renders of your FX elements to demonstrate motion and volume before final lighting. Software Synergy: Use your knowledge of Maya for scene assembly and Nuke for slap-comps to ensure your elements integrate perfectly with the plate. Renderer Proficiency: Utilize 3Delight for Houdini to produce final renders that are optimized for the lighting department’s needs. 3. Collaboration and Troubleshooting Meeting the Vision: Work closely with Supervisors to ensure the FX style matches the Director’s creative intent. Optimization: Identify bottlenecks in heavy simulations and implement creative solutions (like proxy geometry or point-based rendering) to meet tight deadlines. Staying Current: Actively research and implement the latest Houdini versions and third-party tools (like Axiom or Sparse solvers) to keep the Soho pipeline at the cutting edge. Qualifications and Requirements To land a Houdini FX artist job in Toronto at a top-tier studio like Soho, you need to prove you are a “technical artist” in the truest sense. The Technical Core Houdini Mastery: Deep understanding of SOPs, DOPs, and VOPs. Proficiency in VEX scripting is essential for custom manipulation, while Python is required for pipeline automation. The “Scientific” Eye: A strong background in Mathematics, Physics, or Engineering. Understanding how gravity, tension, and fluid viscosity work in the real world is non-negotiable for photo-real VFX. Pipeline Fluency: Professional experience with Maya and Nuke is required to navigate the data flow between departments. Professional Experience The 2-Year Benchmark: You must have at least 2 years of professional experience in a feature film or high-end episodic environment. Resident Status: Due to the Ontario Computer Animation and Special Effects (OCASE) tax credit, applicants must be Ontario residents. Soft Skills Calm Under Pressure: Visual effects is a deadline-driven industry. You must be able to troubleshoot a failing simulation while the clock is ticking without losing focus. Clear Communication: The ability to explain complex technical setups to non-technical producers or supervisors. Why Pursue a Houdini Career in Toronto? Toronto has solidified its place as a global leader in the VFX sector. By securing a Houdini FX artist job in Toronto, you are entering a market that is: Innovation-Driven: Toronto studios are often the first to adopt new SideFX technologies. Stable and Growing: With consistent support from the Ontario government and a massive influx of streaming service production, the “North Hollywood” hub is thriving. Collaborative: The community of artists in Toronto is tight-knit, offering incredible networking and peer-learning opportunities. How to Apply to Soho VFX We want to see how you handle data and aesthetics. Your application should include: The Reel: Focus on “Final vs. Process.” Show us the finished shot followed by the wireframe or point-cloud representation of the simulation. HDA / Tool Samples: If you have built custom tools or solvers, highlight them. We value artists who can make the whole team faster. The Breakdown: Be specific. Instead of “I did the smoke,” say “I utilized a sparse pyro solver with custom VEX-driven velocity fields to simulate localized turbulence.” Submit your materials to: jobs@sohovfx.com Salary & Compensation Table (2026 Market Data) Houdini artists are among the most specialized and sought-after professionals in the VFX industry. Compensation for a Houdini FX artist job in Toronto reflects the deep technical knowledge required in mathematics and physics. Experience Level Annual Salary Range (CAD) Specialized Skills Junior FX Artist $65,000 – $80,000 Basic Pyro/RBD, Houdini Shelf Tools, SOPs. Mid-Level FX Artist $85,000 – $115,000 VEX/Python proficiency, complex Flip fluids, POPs. Senior FX Artist $120,000 – $155,000+ Custom solver development, HDA creation, tool-building. FX Lead / Supervisor $160,000 – $190,000+ Sequence look-dev, team management, pipeline architecture.

VFX Production Coordinator job in Toronto 2026 – Soho VFX

Soho VFX

VFX Production Coordinator Job Overview Company Name – Soho VFX Job Type – Full-Time / Permanent Location – Toronto, Ontario (On-site preferred for daily review management) Experience Level – 2–4 Years in VFX or Post-Production Primary Tools – ShotGrid (Shotgun), ftrack, Microsoft Excel, Asana Mandatory Residency – Must be a Canadian Resident Detailed Responsibilities: The Architect of the Pipeline A Production Coordinator at Soho VFX doesn’t just “take notes”—they manage the flow of data and creativity. Your role is divided into four critical pillars: 1. Artist and Supervisor Support The Bridge: You will act as the primary liaison between the VFX Production Managers and the VFX Supervisors. Your goal is to ensure the creative leads can focus on the “look” while you handle the “logistics.” Review Management: Facilitating dailies and shot reviews. You are responsible for ensuring all shots are ready for review, the correct versions are loaded, and the necessary artists are present. Proactive Problem Solving: Identifying potential bottlenecks (e.g., an artist being over-allocated) and flagging them to management before they impact the deadline. 2. Information Integrity (Tracking & Notes) ShotGrid Mastery: You will maintain the studio’s tracking software (typically ShotGrid) with surgical precision. Every status change, from “In Progress” to “Client Approved,” must be updated in real-time. Note Distribution: During reviews, you must capture complex creative notes and translate them into clear, actionable tasks for the artists. Accuracy is paramount; a misunderstood note can lead to days of wasted render time. Team Briefings: Keeping the crew informed of schedule shifts, client feedback, and technical changes. 3. Delivery and Data Logistics IO Management: Coordinating all incoming and outgoing data. This includes receiving plates and references from clients and preparing final “deliverables” (EXRs, QuickTimes) for studio review. Shipping & Receiving: Managing any physical hardware or drive shipments required for off-site backups or global collaboration. Version Control: Ensuring that the client always receives the correct version and that the internal database matches the client’s records. 4. Workflow Continuity Schedule Maintenance: Monitoring the progress of shots against the master schedule. If a shot is falling behind, you work with the leads to re-prioritize tasks. Cross-Departmental Sync: Ensuring that the Animation department has what it needs from Layout, and that Lighting isn’t waiting on FX. Professional Qualifications To excel in this VFX Production Coordinator job in Toronto, Soho VFX looks for a specific “production mindset.” Technical Aptitude Post-Production Knowledge: You must have a clear understanding of the VFX “food chain”—from Matchmove and Rigging to Lighting and Compositing. Software Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of Microsoft Office (specifically Excel) and specialized production tracking software (ShotGrid/Shotgun). I/O Standards: Familiarity with file formats (EXR, DPX, ProRes), frame rates, and color spaces is a major advantage. Soft Skills and Personality The “Proactive” Gene: You don’t wait for a problem to happen; you anticipate it. You are the person who checks the render farm status before leaving for the day. Communication: Exceptional oral and written skills. You can explain a technical delay to a producer and a creative note to an artist with equal clarity. Resilience: The VFX industry is famous for high-pressure deadlines. You must be able to stay calm, professional, and friendly even when the “crunch” is on. Organization: You should be the most organized person in the room. Your spreadsheets are legendary, and your notes are flawless. Why Choose Toronto for Your VFX Career? Toronto is no longer just “Hollywood North”—it is a global powerhouse. By taking a VFX Production Coordinator job in Toronto at Soho VFX, you are positioning yourself at the center of a massive industry ecosystem. Global Projects: Work on content for Disney, Netflix, Warner Bros, and Sony. Career Growth: The path from Coordinator to Producer is well-defined in Toronto. The networking opportunities at industry events (TAAFI, Spark FX) are unparalleled. Culture: Soho VFX offers a supportive team environment. We believe that a positive attitude is just as important as technical skill. The Production Coordinator Life Cycle [Image: A flowchart showing the Shot Lifecycle: Client Request -> Coordinator Assignments -> Artist Iteration -> Internal Review -> Coordinator Client Upload -> Approval] As shown in the workflow above, the Coordinator is the only person who touches every stage of a shot’s life. You are the guardian of the studio’s reputation for on-time delivery. Application Requirements Interested candidates for this VFX Production Coordinator job in Toronto should submit: A Tailored Resume: Highlight your experience with specific tracking software and mention the scale of projects you have managed (e.g., “Coordinated 200+ shots for a Marvel feature”). Cover Letter: Tell us about a time you solved a logistical nightmare under a tight deadline. References: Provide contacts who can speak to your organizational skills and reliability. Salary & Compensation Table (2026 Projections) The compensation for a VFX Production Coordinator job in Toronto has evolved as studios adopt more sophisticated tracking technologies and global delivery standards. Soho VFX offers competitive rates that reflect the high level of responsibility this role carries. Experience Level Annual Salary Range (CAD) Key Responsibilities Junior Coordinator $50,000 – $62,000 Managing single departments, tracking assets. Mid-Level Coordinator $65,000 – $85,000 Managing full sequences, client deliveries. Senior Coordinator $88,000 – $105,000 Multi-show coordination, mentoring juniors. Production Manager $110,000 – $140,000+ Budgeting, scheduling, and high-level strategy.

Lighting Artist Job 2026 – Soho VFX

Soho VFX

Lighting Artist Job Overview 2026 Company Name : Soho VFX Job Type : Full-Time, Permanent (Project-based contracts also available) Location : Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Hybrid/On-site options) Experience : 3+ Years in a professional VFX environment Software Stack : Maya, 3Delight, Nuke, MEL/Python Residency : Must be an Ontario Resident (for OCASE tax credit compliance) Detailed Responsibilities: The Art of Digital Cinematography As a Lighting Artist at Soho VFX, your role is to ensure that digital elements (characters, environments, and FX) are indistinguishable from the live-action plates they inhabit. 1. CG Scene Assembly and Illumination Integration: Light and render complex CG scenes using Maya. This involves matching the light direction, color temperature, and intensity of the original onset photography. Character Lighting: Bringing digital doubles and creatures to life by emphasizing form, silhouette, and eye-pings, ensuring they “sit” perfectly in the plate. Asset LookDev: Working within the established look-development guidelines to ensure materials react realistically to different lighting environments. 2. Technical Pipeline Integration Efficiency and Optimization: In a high-stakes environment like Soho VFX, render times matter. You will be expected to optimize your scenes to ensure high-quality output without bottlenecking the render farm. Scripting for Automation: Utilizing MEL scripting (and ideally Python) to automate repetitive tasks, manage light rigs across sequences, and troubleshoot scene assembly issues. AOV Management: Creating comprehensive render passes (AOVs) that provide Compositors with the maximum amount of control over the final image. 3. Cross-Departmental Collaboration Upstream Synergy: Work with the Dynamics and LookDev departments to ensure that simulated elements (smoke, fire, water) are lit consistently with the rest of the scene. Downstream Support: Collaborate directly with the Compositing team using Nuke. A great Lighting Artist understands how a compositor will “break apart” a render, providing the necessary depth, utility, and light passes to make the final merge seamless. Communication: Attend dailies to present your work to Supervisors and Directors. You must be able to translate artistic notes (“Make it feel more moody”) into technical actions (“Lowering the fill, adding a rim light, and adjusting the HDRI exposure”). Professional Qualifications To be successful in this lighting artist job in Toronto, candidates must demonstrate a specific blend of “left-brain” technicality and “right-brain” artistry. Technical Requirements Maya Mastery: Complete comfort within the Maya environment, specifically regarding scene hierarchy and render layers. Render Engine Expertise: Experience with 3Delight is a significant asset. However, if you have mastered Arnold, Renderman, or V-Ray, your skills in physical light transport will be highly transferable. Scripting Skills: A strong understanding of MEL is required. In the modern VFX landscape, Python has become the industry standard for pipeline tools, and candidates with Python experience will be prioritized. Nuke Literacy: You don’t need to be a Lead Compositor, but you should understand how to perform basic “slap-comps” to check your lighting before sending it to the next department. Artistic Requirements Color and Light Theory: A deep understanding of how light interacts with different surfaces (subsurface scattering, Fresnel, specular reflections). Composition: A keen eye for directing the viewer’s attention through light and shadow. Photorealism: The ability to look at a live-action plate and identify the subtle nuances—such as light wrap, bounce light, and lens flares—that make a shot feel real. Why Work at Soho VFX? Joining the Soho VFX team means becoming part of a legacy of excellence in the Toronto film scene. The Soho Environment: We offer a collaborative “artist-first” atmosphere where ego is left at the door. You will work alongside some of the best technical minds in the industry. High-Profile Projects: Our portfolio includes some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Your lighting will be the final polish on characters and environments seen by millions worldwide. Ontario Centric: We are proud to be a major contributor to the Ontario film economy. As a resident, you will benefit from being part of a stable, growing industry supported by provincial initiatives. Understanding the Lighting Pipeline To excel in this role, you must understand where you sit in the production flow. The diagram above illustrates the typical Soho VFX lighting workflow: Input: Receive approved animation and FX caches. Environment Setup: Align HDRI and plate-matching lights. Render Layers: Segregate elements (Character, Environment, Shadows, Utilities). Optimization: Use MEL/Python to streamline the render settings for 3Delight. Output: Provide multi-channel EXRs to the Compositing department. Application Requirements To apply for this lighting artist job in Toronto, please prepare the following: The Lighting Reel: Show us your best shots. We want to see how you handle different lighting conditions (Exterior day, Interior night, High-key vs. Low-key). Breakdown Reel: Include “grey-shaded” or “work-in-progress” passes to show how you built your lighting from the ground up. Code Samples: If you have written MEL or Python tools to help your lighting workflow, feel free to include a link to a GitHub or a PDF summary. Residency Proof: As an Ontario-based role, please confirm your residency status in your cover letter. Salary & Compensation Table (2026 Projections) The compensation for a lighting artist job in Toronto reflects the highly technical nature of the role. Because lighting artists act as the “bridge” between 3D assets and final 2D compositing, their expertise in render optimization and color science is highly valued. Experience Level Annual Salary Range (CAD) Key Differentiators Junior Lighting Artist $60,000 – $75,000 Strong reel, basic MEL, understanding of AOVs. Intermediate Lighter $80,000 – $105,000 3+ years exp, complex shot lighting, Python skills. Senior Lighting Artist $110,000 – $145,000+ Sequence lead experience, shader optimization. Lighting Supervisor $150,000 – $180,000 Pipeline architecture, multi-departmental oversight.