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Vfx Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acting as the connection between software engineering, pipeline development, and production, the VFX AI Pipeline Engineer builds intelligent tools that automate repetitive processes, accelerate asset ...

Acting as the connection between software engineering, pipeline development, and production, the VFX AI Pipeline Engineer builds intelligent tools that automate repetitive processes, accelerate asset ...

VFX AI Pipeline

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$125K/yr

Acting as the connection between software engineering, pipeline development, and production, the VFX AI Pipeline Engineer builds intelligent tools that automate repetitive processes, accelerate asset ...

Required * 5 - 10+ years in VFX engineering, pipeline TD, or tools development with shipped credits in film, episodic, or AAA gaming. * Deep fluency in production VFX workflows: compositing (Nuke ...

Senior VFX Artist _____ We're Studio Wildcard, developers of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival ... Proficiency in creating VFX Assets using advanced techniques like fluids/pyro/etc in a software ...

Sr. VFX Artist

Glendale, CA ยท Remote

$120K - $186K/yr

Collaborate with artists, designers, and engineers to visualize incredible gameplay, magical powers ... Expert level proficiency with Maya, Substance, Photoshop and/or equivalent 3D and 2D software

Senior VFX Artist We're Studio Wildcard, developers of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved ... Proficiency in creating VFX Assets using advanced techniques like fluids/pyro/etc in a software ...

Senior VFX Artist _____ We're Studio Wildcard, developers of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival ... Proficiency in creating VFX Assets using advanced techniques like fluids/pyro/etc in a software ...

Senior VFX Artist We're Studio Wildcard, developers of the smash indie hit ARK: Survival Evolved ... Proficiency in creating VFX Assets using advanced techniques like fluids/pyro/etc in a software ...

WI ยท On-site

R028049 Your Mission Raven Software is seeking a highly capable, motivated Senior VFX Artist to ... They will partner with some of the most talented and passionate developers in the industry to ...

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Vfx Software Engineer information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do vfx software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for vfx software engineer in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a VFX software engineer?

VFX Software Engineers are specialized professionals who develop and maintain software tools used in the creation of visual effects for films, television, and games. They work closely with artists and technical directors to design, implement, and optimize systems that process and render complex graphics and simulations. Their work enables artists to create realistic animations, simulations, and compositing effects, making them a crucial part of any VFX production team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VFX software engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VFX Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, mathematics, and programming languages such as C++ or Python, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with graphics APIs (like OpenGL or DirectX), VFX software (such as Houdini or Maya), and version control systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities enable the creation of efficient, visually impressive effects and ensure smooth collaboration with artists and technical teams.

What are some common challenges a VFX software engineer faces when working with artists and production teams?

A VFX Software Engineer often encounters the challenge of translating creative visions into technical solutions, which requires strong communication and collaboration with artists and production teams. Balancing performance optimization with user-friendly tools, accommodating evolving project requirements, and troubleshooting issues under tight deadlines are also typical hurdles. Success in the role depends on adaptability, proactive problem-solving, and a good understanding of both software engineering and the artistic workflow.

What is the difference between Vfx Software Engineer vs Vfx Artist?

AspectVfx Software EngineerVfx Artist
Primary FocusDeveloping and coding visual effects software and toolsCreating and implementing visual effects in projects
Required SkillsProgramming, software development, scriptingArtistic skills, creativity, understanding of visual effects
Work EnvironmentSoftware studios, R&D teams, technical departmentsPost-production, film, animation, and game studios
Common CertificationsComputer Science, Software Engineering, relevant coding coursesArt and design degrees, VFX-specific training

While both roles are integral to visual effects production, Vfx Software Engineers focus on developing the tools and software that enable Vfx creation, requiring strong programming skills. Vfx Artists, on the other hand, specialize in creating visual effects directly within projects, emphasizing artistic talent. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or job focus within the VFX industry.

Does Vfx Software Engineer pay well?

Vfx Software Engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and skill level. Professionals with expertise in tools like Maya, Nuke, or Houdini and strong programming skills tend to have higher earning potential in this field.

What cities are hiring for Vfx Software Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Vfx Software Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Vfx Software Engineer jobs?

For Vfx Software Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Vfx Software Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

VFX AI Pipeline

Manhattan, NY โ€ข On-site

thelab
Marketingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:

The VFX AI Pipeline Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the infrastructure that integrates artificial intelligence and machine learning into Wellcom's CGI and visual effects production pipeline. Working within HOME, Wellcom's AI-enabled production ecosystem, this role bridges traditional VFX applications with AI-native technologies to create scalable, artist-friendly workflows that enhance efficiency without compromising creative quality.

Acting as the connection between software engineering, pipeline development, and production, the VFX AI Pipeline Engineer builds intelligent tools that automate repetitive processes, accelerate asset creation, and enable creative teams to leverage AI throughout the production lifecycle. This role collaborates closely with CGI Supervisors, Compositing Artists, Developers, Creative Technologists, and Production teams to continuously evolve HOME's AI capabilities.



Key Responsibilities:

AI Pipeline Integration

  • Architect, develop, and maintain AI-enhanced production solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing VFX and CGI pipelines.
  • Build custom tools, APIs, and services that connect traditional DCC applications-including 3ds Max, Maya, Houdini, Nuke, and Fusion-with AI generation platforms and machine learning models.
  • Ensure AI workflows are scalable, secure, reliable, and production-ready within HOME.
  • Collaborate with pipeline engineers and software developers to optimize performance and interoperability across production systems.

Workflow Automation

  • Design, build, and maintain automated AI workflows using ComfyUI, Python, and proprietary workflow frameworks.
  • Standardize AI-assisted asset generation, image enhancement, look development, and production processes across creative teams.
  • Develop reusable automation pipelines that improve production speed, consistency, and scalability.
  • Monitor workflow performance and continuously optimize processing efficiency.

Model Fine-Tuning & AI Development

  • Manage the training, fine-tuning, and deployment of custom AI models including LoRAs, ControlNets, IP-Adapters, and related machine learning assets.
  • Maintain model libraries, checkpoints, version control, and documentation to support project consistency and governance.
  • Optimize AI models for specific client aesthetics, character consistency, product visualization, and brand standards.
  • Evaluate emerging AI technologies and recommend production-ready implementations.

Technical Artist Tools

  • Develop intuitive tools, interfaces, and scripts that enable artists to utilize AI capabilities without requiring advanced programming knowledge.
  • Create integrations within Nuke, Houdini, 3ds Max, Maya, and other production applications that support AI-powered workflows such as texture synthesis, depth-map generation, image upscaling, rotoscoping, segmentation, and asset enhancement.
  • Build artist-focused workflows that balance automation with creative control.
  • Improve usability through documentation, training, and ongoing technical support.

Collaboration & Innovation

  • Partner with CGI Supervisors, Compositing Artists, Creative Technologists, AI Developers, and Production teams to identify opportunities for AI-enabled workflow improvements.
  • Support the evolution of HOME by researching, testing, and implementing emerging AI technologies that enhance production capabilities.
  • Establish best practices, technical documentation, and governance standards for AI-assisted production.
  • Champion responsible, ethical, and secure implementation of AI technologies throughout the production pipeline.



Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Visual Effects, Computer Graphics, Artificial Intelligence, or equivalent professional experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in VFX pipeline development, technical direction, software engineering, or AI workflow development.
  • Strong understanding of VFX production pipelines and digital content creation workflows.
  • Advanced programming experience with Python.
  • Experience integrating software applications through APIs and automation frameworks.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.



Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience developing AI-enabled production pipelines for CGI, VFX, or creative production environments.
  • Experience with ComfyUI, Stable Diffusion, Flux, or other generative AI frameworks.
  • Knowledge of machine learning concepts, inference optimization, and model fine-tuning.
  • Experience training and managing LoRAs, ControlNets, IP-Adapters, or similar AI models.
  • Familiarity with cloud computing, GPU infrastructure, and distributed AI processing.
  • Experience working within commercial advertising, production, or animation studios.



Technical Skills:

Programming & Development

  • Python
  • REST APIs
  • Git
  • Docker
  • Workflow automation
  • Pipeline development

AI & Machine Learning

  • ComfyUI
  • Stable Diffusion
  • Flux
  • LoRA training
  • ControlNet
  • IP-Adapters
  • Model inference
  • Prompt engineering
  • AI workflow orchestration

VFX & DCC Applications

  • Autodesk Maya
  • 3ds Max
  • Houdini
  • Nuke
  • Fusion

Pipeline & Infrastructure

  • Asset management
  • Pipeline architecture
  • GPU rendering
  • Cloud infrastructure
  • Version control
  • AI model management



Success in This Role:

A successful VFX AI Pipeline Engineer will:

  • Build reliable, scalable AI infrastructure that seamlessly integrates with Wellcom's VFX and CGI production pipeline.
  • Empower artists through intuitive AI tools that enhance creativity while reducing repetitive manual work.
  • Optimize AI workflows to improve production efficiency, consistency, and quality.
  • Collaborate effectively across engineering, creative, and production teams to deliver innovative solutions.
  • Help shape the future of HOME by advancing AI-enabled production capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of technical excellence, artistic integrity, and operational reliability.