Lead Environment Generalist

The multi-Oscar-winning creative Film & Episodic Studio at Framestore has worked with some of the greatest storytellers in film today. Collaborating with directors and producers across the complete filmmaking process to help design, plan and create beautiful images, we focus on finding innovative creative solutions to support their vision and set new standards for visual effects in cinema.

Framestore combines talent and technology to bring life to everything we create. Driven by creativity and inspired by the future, we set out every day to reframe the possible.

About the role

This is a key role within our Melbourne-based Environment team.

This role will be required to be onsite 2 days per week per our hybrid policy.

Relocation assistance provided as neccessary.

Lead Environment Generalists are responsible for leading a team of Environment Generalists in creating photo-real digital environments for high end visual effects shots. They set the example of quality, communication and dedication within the team. They support the team of artists as well as Supervisors/ HOD’s both creatively and technically. Lead artists are expected to guide their team as well as actively work on their own creative shot work for the project.

What you’ll do

• Manage and mentor a team of Environment artists.

• Collaborate with the Environments Supervisor to achieve the creative vision of the client and the technical requirements of the Show.

• Participate actively in team and show reviews; fill in for the Environment Supervisor in internal and client creative reviews when needed. Ensure feedback from reviews is appropriately addressed. 

• Assist the Environment Supervisor in assessing crew needs for the team.

• Assist the Environments Supervisor in bidding out asset creation and shot costs, assessing the cost implications of client requests, and working out solutions.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and testing of Environments tools, pipelines and workflows for both your show and the studio as a whole.

• Help communicate the creative and technical expectations for the team, and support the Environment Supervisor in seeing them through via consistent constructive feedback, recognition, and accountability.

• Model and foster a culture of professional excellence based on trust, candor and respect.

• Actively support the professional growth of all members of the Environments department by supporting mentoring, training and other initiatives.

• Provide regular updates to the Environments Supervisor on the progress, health, and direction of the team.

Artistic requirements

• Create photo-realistic digital matte paintings, textures and models or collaborating with specialists in those disciplines as required

• Assembling models, digital matte paintings, textures, projections and lights into a CG scene for rendering

• Troubleshooting technical issues with the CG scene and optimising the renders to work within the resources available

• Working with a shot Compositor to assemble renders and projections in a compositing application

• Working to develop the look of a shot, assets or sequence with the Visual Effects and CG Supervisors

• Lighting and scene assembly for other shots or assets as required, including characters and animation

• Identifying the best approach for matching the quality of the plate photography

• Communicating with production on a regular basis in regards to schedules and deadlines

• Working in partnership with other departments to ensure that shots are delivered to the highest possible standard

Knowledge & Experience

• Experience in mentoring or leading a team of varied size

• Previous experience working in a film VFX pipeline

• A traditional arts background with an emphasis on photo-realistic work and environments

• Strong knowledge of Photoshop, Nuke and Maya as well as experience with a wide range of specialist software used to create digital environments

• Modeling, UV layout and texturing skills

• Artistic skills in digital matte painting

• Previous experience with 2.5 D workflow

• A strong understanding of the entire VFX process

• Previous experience working on a computer with the Linux operating system

• An understanding of cutting edge technology in the field such as stereo photogrammetry and photo based 3D reconstruction

Competencies, Skills & Attributes

• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate complex topics relevant to compositing and connected departments

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Critical eye for detail

• Able to work well under pressure

• Ability and willingness to multi-task

• Proven ability to work collaboratively with other departments

Accessibility Statement

Our Melbourne studio is fully accessible, with step-free entry, accessible toilets, and a quiet space available. We are committed to supporting disabled colleagues and providing an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Application Process & Deadline

To apply, please complete the linked application form or email your resume and portfolio to recruiters@framestore.com with the subject line: Lead Environment Generalist – Melbourne.

We review all applications manually and do not use artificial intelligence to screen candidates. If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please let us know - we are happy to accommodate your needs.