FX work often involves recreating an array of complex effects such as water or hair movement. The FX Lead develops initial setups and pipelines for a specific FX task, e.g. fur/hair/feathers.
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The Work
FX work often involves recreating an array of complex effects such as water or hair movement.
Different types of FX work require different approaches and specialised knowledge, so FX tasks are often subdivided into specific sub departments. The FX lead is a senior position in the FX department.
Role and Responsibilities
- Works with the FX supervisor to create the initial FX setups and pipeline for a specific FX task e.g. the fur/hair/feather tasks.
- Is a specialist for the particular task and will be responsible for leading the RND effort and delivering the more complex FX assets for that task.
- In charge of maintaining and expanding specific task-based FX setups and building new show-wide tools and setups aimed at standardising workflows.
- Advises FX technical directors on development of FX setups for particular needs and specific shots.
- Interprets the FX supervisor's/director's notes and delivers a variety of FX options to gain final approval as efficiently as possible.
- Maintains documentation, tutorials, and other reusable resources.
- Familiar with pipeline issues and technical problem solving.
Works with
- FX Supervisor
- FX Line Producer
- CG Supervisor
Qualities - FX Lead
Is this role right for me?
For this role, you need:
Several years experience in the FX department, with knowledge and experience of creating a variety of different types of FX.
In depth knowledge of CG software.
Specialist knowledge of a particular area in FX such as crowds, costume, hair/fur/feathers, fire, water, destruction etc.
Excellent technical skills and an in-depth knowledge of CG production, particularly in specialised area of FX and in areas such as coding and tool development.
Excellent trouble-shooting skills with the proven experience to tackle and solve particularly complex tasks in an efficient manner.
Good organisational skills and ability to manage a team of FX artists to meet production timetables.
Excellent artistic eye for details and an excellent sense of timing and scale.
Ability to give precise and constructive criticism/feedback.
Great interpersonal and communication skills, particularly when under pressure and the ability to anticipate and solve issues and conflicts.
Ability to manage and mentor a team.
Interests - FX Lead
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Creative
Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.
Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry - FX Lead
Last Updated: May, 2025
Pay & Salary - FX Lead
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