Lead the architecture, development, and maintenance of the VFX pipeline at BOT VFX, ensuring artist-friendly tools and efficient delivery workflows. Reports to CEO and manages a team of Pipeline TDs and Developers.

About the Company

BOT VFX is a leading visual effects services company catering to global clients in film, television, and advertising. With a strong reputation for delivering high-quality VFX under tight deadlines, BOT VFX combines creative artistry with technical excellence. The studio is headquartered in Chennai, India, and works with international productions. BOT VFX is committed to innovation and fostering a culture where technology and art intersect seamlessly.

Role Overview

We are seeking a seasoned Head of Pipeline to lead the architecture, development, deployment, and maintenance of our studio's VFX pipeline. This is a full-time, permanent role based preferably in Chennai, but candidates across India will be considered. The Head of Pipeline will report directly to the CEO and collaborate closely with the CIO. The role oversees a diverse team including a Product Manager/Lead Pipeline TD, Pipeline TDs, and Pipeline Developers. The primary goal is to design and implement a robust, scalable pipeline that enhances artist productivity and supports high-pressure show deliveries. The ideal candidate will have a deep technical background in pipeline development combined with strong change management experience to ensure consistent adoption across the studio.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, implementation, and long-term roadmap of the studio's VFX pipeline, ensuring tools are artist-friendly, scalable, and stable.
• Design and lead change management efforts to enable all users across delivery workflows to adopt new processes effectively.
• Own the department budget and capacity management, balancing resources between long-term projects and short-term show support demands.
• Directly manage, mentor, and task a team of Pipeline TDs, Pipeline Developers, and a Product Manager/Lead Pipeline TD to ensure timely software releases.
• Act as a key technical liaison on active shows, collaborating with VFX Supervisors and creative leadership to resolve bottlenecks and make swift decisions on pipeline adjustments.
• Champion a strong UX culture within the pipeline team, ensuring artist-facing tools are intuitive and reduce manual overhead.
• Evaluate and implement open-source technologies (such as AYON, OpenRV, OpenColorIO, USD) alongside commercial DCCs (Nuke, Maya, Houdini, etc.) to keep the studio's infrastructure modern and competitive.
• Establish studio-wide software engineering standards, continuous delivery practices (CI/CD), code review loops, and robust data management lifecycle protocols.

Tech Stack

• Languages: Python, C++, Qt/PySide
• Version Control: Git
• DCCs: Nuke, Maya, Houdini
• Pipeline Frameworks: AYON/OpenPype (preferred)
• Open-Source Tools: OpenRV, OpenColorIO, USD
• Other: CI/CD pipelines, asset management systems, core APIs

Required Skills

• At least 10-12 years of experience in the VFX industry, with 5-7 years in a leadership or supervisory capacity within the pipeline department.
• Strong technical grounding in pipeline development: Python, C++, Qt/PySide, Git.
• Deep understanding of standard VFX DCCs (Nuke, Maya, Houdini), asset management systems, and core APIs.
• Proven supervisory experience with understanding of time-critical delivery constraints and ability to negotiate technical solutions under pressure.
• Demonstrated commitment to artist-friendly UX design; ability to simplify complex backend systems into elegant frontend tools for artists.
• Experience with modern open-source pipeline frameworks (AYON/OpenPype strongly preferred).
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills to build trust with creative directors, show producers, and engineering teams.
• Minimum 10-12 years overall experience in VFX.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses.
• Health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision).
• Paid time off (annual leave, sick leave, public holidays).
• Professional development opportunities and training.
• Flexible work arrangements (remote friendly within India).
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.