Role - Character Effects (CFX)Artist
Locations: Australia | Montreal | Vancouver
Temporary Contract
Who we are
Crafty Apes is a high-end global visual effects company specializing in photoreal VFX. Established in 2011, Crafty Apes operates studio locations across North America, Europe, and Australia. Our mission is to bring our clients’ visions to life through exceptional visual effects for feature films, high-end episodic content, and commercials. We take pride in delivering top-tier shots in a collaborative, creative, and fun environment.
We are seeking a talented Character Effects (CFX) Artist to join our growing 3D teams across our Australian, Montreal, and Vancouver locations. The ideal candidate is a proactive team player who thrives in a fast-paced environment and possesses strong technical and artistic problem-solving skills.
Note: Applicants must already have legal authorisation to work in their selected location.
What we need
As a CFX Artist at Crafty Apes, you will be responsible for creating believable, dynamic character simulations—including cloth, hair, fur, muscle, soft body dynamics, and dynamic props. You will work closely with CG Supervisors, Animation, and Compositing teams to ensure high-quality simulation execution that seamlessly integrates into shot work.
What you would do
-
Perform shot-level dynamic simulations for cloth, hair, fur, feathers, and muscle systems across diverse character setups.
-
Construct, maintain, and optimize robust CFX simulation rigs and templates for production pipelines.
-
Execute post-simulation cleanups, anatomical mesh sculpting, and deformation fixes to ensure visual continuity and physical accuracy.
-
Collaborate closely with Animation, Creature Rigging, Lighting, and Compositing leads to address show direction and creative feedback.
-
Troubleshoot technical issues upstream or downstream in the pipeline, maintaining efficient workflow standards.
-
Adhere to show schedules, production milestones, and quality control specifications under the supervision of show leads and supervisors.
What you need
-
Experience: Minimum of 3+ years of professional production experience in CFX or Technical Animation for feature film, television, or AAA cinematics.
-
Software Proficiency:
-
Advanced working knowledge of Autodesk Maya (nCloth, nHair, Qualoth) and/or SideFX Houdini (Vellum, Wire, FX).
-
Experience with muscle/soft-body simulation engines (e.g., Ziva Dynamics) is a plus.
-
Grooming & Pipeline: Familiarity with hair/grooming tools such as Yeti, XGen, or Houdini Grooming systems.
-
Anatomy & Physics: Strong foundational understanding of human/animal anatomy, clothing construction, real-world fabric physical behavior, and natural motion dynamics.
-
Scripting Skills: Scripting capability in Python or VEX for workflow automation and tool development is highly regarded.
-
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a track record of receiving and implementing artistic and technical direction effectively.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining Crafty Apes, please prepare and submit the following:
-
Portfolio / Demo Reel: A direct link to your latest CFX/TechAnim reel illustrating cloth, hair, or dynamic character simulation work (please include passwords if required).
-
Resume / CV: Detailed background highlighting your relevant production experience, tools used, and filmography/project credits.
-
Work Authorisation: Confirmation of your current legal right to work in your preferred studio location (Australia, Canada).
Crafty Apes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Preference for candidates that have unlimited work rights within Australia and Canada for this position
