One of Us is seeking a highly skilled Layout Artist / Previs Technical Director (TD) to join our world-class VFX team in London. This specialized contract role sits at the critical intersection of creative cinematography, virtual production, and technical execution. Operating within a hybrid and on-site framework—with the exciting potential for direct on-set or LED volume engagement—you will be instrumental in developing high-fidelity previs, postvis, and final layout sequences.
The ideal candidate effortlessly bridges the gap between artistic camera direction and complex CG pipelines. You will take charge of scene assembly, technical troubleshooting, and real‑time client review sessions, working in close synchronization with directors, VFX supervisors, animators, and asset departments to establish the visual scale, pacing, and core storytelling of major feature film and episodic projects.
Layout Artist Job Overview
Parameter Specification Details
Company Name One of Us
Job Title Layout Artist / Previs Technical Director (TD)
Employment Type 3D Contract / Project-Based
Work Model Hybrid / On-site (Potential for on-set & volume deployment)
Location London, England, United Kingdom
Department Previs / Layout
Core Software Autodesk Maya, Unreal Engine, ShotGrid, Perforce
Data Formats USD, Alembic, FBX, standard production asset schemas
Salary / Rate Competitive; based on industry benchmarks and portfolio depth
Key Requirement A strong portfolio/reel demonstrating previs, layout, or virtual camera work
About One of Us
One of Us is a BAFTA-winning, independent visual effects studio headquartered in the vibrant creative heart of London. We pride ourselves on cultivating an environment where filmmaking passion meets cutting‑edge technical innovation. Known for our boutique, highly collaborative approach, we work closely with visionaries to craft bespoke imagery for premium long‑form cinema and high‑end television.
One of Us believe that the best work emerges from tight‑knit, agile teams working in close collaboration. Our pipeline embraces emerging technologies—including real‑time rendering and virtual production workflows—allowing our artists to operate at the absolute forefront of modern cinematic storytelling.
Key Responsibilities: Creative & Technical Execution
As a Layout Artist / Previs TD, your daily responsibilities will blend cinematic artistry with robust pipeline management. You will be expected to:
Cinematic Blocking & Asset Integration
- Visual Storytelling: Create, refine, and optimize complex previs, postvis, and final layout scenes that accurately communicate narrative intent, spatial scale, and dramatic editorial pacing.
- Scene Assembly: Build, organize, and manage intricate 3D environments using a mix of client‑supplied pre‑production assets and official internal studio assets.
- Camera Craft: Develop advanced cinematic camera work, precise shot composition, lens selections, and character/vehicle blocking that align seamlessly with the director’s creative vision.
- Real‑Time Performance: Technically optimize complex 3D scenes to maintain high framerates for seamless real‑time playback, client presentation, and downstream rendering.
- Technical Troubleshooting: Proactively diagnose and resolve recurring scene issues, including asset optimization, scale conversion consistency, and precise camera metadata exports.
- Client‑Facing Sessions: Run fluid, interactive real‑time review sessions directly with clients, directors, and supervisors, implementing creative notes on the fly.
- Production Alignment: Participate actively in daily crew reviews (dailies) and creative discussions with VFX supervisors and studio production leadership.
Required Skills & Experience
One of Us is looking for a proactive, solution‑oriented technical artist who thrives under active production schedules and evolving creative briefs.
Core Qualifications
- VFX Industry Experience: Proven professional experience working in previs, layout, virtual camera tracking, or LED Volume/Virtual Production environments within a recognized VFX studio.
- Software & Tool Mastery: Advanced, production‑proven knowledge of Autodesk Maya and/or Unreal Engine.
- Cinematic Expertise: A profound, foundational understanding of real‑world cinematography principles, lighting, staging, lens packages, composition, and editorial pacing.
- Pipeline Literacy: High familiarity with modern data interchange formats, specifically USD (Universal Scene Description), Alembic, and FBX, along with standard production asset formats.
- Tracking & Version Control: Practical experience navigating production tracking and asset management ecosystems such as ShotGrid and Perforce.
- Soft Skills: Excellent interpersonal communication skills and a collaborative mindset, with the distinct ability to remain highly efficient and adaptable amidst changing creative requirements.
What We Are Looking For
- The Storyteller-Engineer: A rare talent who values the emotional weight of a beautifully composed shot just as much as a clean, perfectly optimized, and lightweight 3D scene.
- A Fast-Paced Collaborator: Someone who thrives in dynamic studio settings, welcoming rapid creative iterations and technical problem‑solving with a positive, proactive attitude.
- Tech Enthusiast: A professional with a genuine, demonstrable passion for filmmaking craft and the emerging real‑time technologies that are reshaping the industry.
How to Apply
If you are ready to bring your dual passion for cinematography and technical excellence to our London studio, we want to hear from you. Please submit your application through our official channel, ensuring you include:
- An up‑to‑date CV / Résumé detailing your VFX studio and pipeline experience.
- A link to your latest Showreel demonstrating strong layout, camera blocking, or previs work (with a clear breakdown of your technical and creative contributions).
- Your current availability and your standard contract rate expectations.
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