Associate Technical Supervisor (back-end)

Netflix Netflix · Big Tech · Vancouver, BC · Feature Animation

Associate Technical Supervisor (Back-End) at Netflix Animation Studios responsible for the technical direction and support of the later stages of the production pipeline, including Lighting, Rendering, Compositing, Imaging, Final Output/Delivery, Simulation/FX, and Pipeline integration. The role involves troubleshooting, optimizing workflows, developing tools, managing development initiatives, and providing technical guidance to TDs.

What you'd actually do

  1. Troubleshoot and optimize production workflows, providing practical solutions to visual and technical problems through existing tools or new tool development.
  2. Safeguard artist productivity by testing and validating new tools and pipeline changes, tracking and resolving issues in partnership with Technical Supervisors, Solutions Engineering, and R&D.
  3. Contribute to building and improving the show and studio-wide pipeline, ensuring efficient collaboration across departments and supporting broader technical objectives.
  4. Track and manage development initiatives for the show, monitoring estimates, scope, and deadlines, and adjusting plans as needed to keep work on track.
  5. Provide day-to-day technical guidance to TDs, collaborating with the Solutions Engineering Manager to escalate issues through the right channels when needed.

Skills

Required

  • 5+ years of proven pipeline TD experience in animated features, animated TV series, and/or VFX feature films, with demonstrated leadership in feature animation or VFX.
  • Strong technical foundation, including solid Python skills (plus PyQt or another GUI toolkit), familiarity with data flow/metadata/publishing concepts, and the ability to review code and troubleshoot issues
  • Deep understanding of traditional production workflows, tools, and techniques, with experience using and troubleshooting relevant DCCs and production tracking software such as Flow Production Tracking (ShotGrid) or similar.
  • Experience with modern software development and collaboration practices, including git/GitHub, code review processes, and Agile methodologies using tools such as Jira.
  • Demonstrated strength in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and risk awareness, with the ability to adapt to evolving project requirements and dynamic team interactions.
  • Degree in Animation, Film, Computer Science, Design, Engineering, Math, or Physics, or equivalent professional experience in animation/VFX.

Nice to have

  • basic C++ and USD knowledge

What the JD emphasized

  • technical vision
  • pipeline tools
  • workflows
  • creative and technical challenges
  • technical success
  • technical oversight
  • pipeline troubleshooting
  • tool development
  • technical processes
  • technical requirements
  • technical leadership
  • technical challenges
  • technical objectives
  • technical work
  • technical information
  • technical work
  • technical guidance
  • technical issues
  • technical topics
  • technical topics
  • technical topics
  • pipeline TD experience
  • technical foundation
  • troubleshoot issues
  • technical problems