Join a leading visual effects company as the Head of Pipeline to oversee the architecture and development of innovative VFX solutions.

About the Company

BOT VFX is a renowned visual effects services company known for delivering high-quality content for a diverse range of global clients. With a commitment to creativity and innovation, BOT VFX excels in providing comprehensive visual effects solutions that meet the demands of today’s dynamic entertainment landscape.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Head of Pipeline who will play a crucial role in overseeing the architecture, development, deployment, and maintenance of the studio's VFX pipeline. This is a full-time, permanent position, ideally based in Chennai, India, although candidates from other regions will also be considered. The Head of Pipeline will directly report to the CEO and collaborate closely with the CIO to ensure alignment between the pipeline strategies and the studio’s creative, technical, and business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, implementation, and long-term development roadmap of the studio's VFX pipeline, ensuring that tools are user-friendly, scalable, and stable.
• Design and manage change initiatives to enable all users involved in delivery workflows to utilize the pipeline effectively.
• Oversee the department budget and resource management, balancing essential long-term projects with the demands of short-term show support.
• Directly lead, mentor, and assign tasks to a team that includes Pipeline TDs, Pipeline Developers, and a Product Manager/Lead Pipeline TD, ensuring timely delivery of software releases.
• Act as a key technical liaison during active shows, working closely with VFX Supervisors and creative leaders to resolve bottlenecks and implement swift, effective pipeline adjustments.
• Cultivate a strong user experience culture within the pipeline team to ensure artist-facing tools are intuitive and minimize manual overhead.
• Evaluate and implement open-source technologies alongside commercial tools, keeping the studio's infrastructure innovative and competitive.
• Establish robust software engineering standards, CI/CD practices, and data management lifecycles across the studio.

Tech Stack

• Languages: Python, C++
• Frameworks: Qt/PySide
• Version Control: Git
• VFX Tools: Nuke, Maya, Houdini
• Open-Source Technologies: AYON, OpenRV, OpenColorIO, USD

Given the critical nature of this role, the Head of Pipeline is expected to have extensive technical expertise coupled with strong leadership and communication skills to effectively manage the diverse challenges posed by VFX projects.

• 10-12 years of experience in the VFX field, with at least 5-7 years in a leadership role within pipeline development.
• Strong technical skills in pipeline development with expertise in Python, C++, Qt/PySide, and Git.
• In-depth understanding of VFX DCCs (like Nuke, Maya, Houdini), asset management systems, and core APIs.
• Proven leadership experience with a practical understanding of time-critical delivery constraints.
• Experience with modern open-source pipeline frameworks, preferably AYON or OpenPype.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, capable of building trust with creative directors and production teams.

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunity to lead and mentor a diverse team of talented professionals.
• Work in a dynamic and creative environment at the forefront of the VFX industry.
• Access to the latest technologies and tools in visual effects.