Color Scientist - Intermediate Specialist

Sony Pictures Imageworks is located on the unceded traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. We are committed to respecting traditional lands, and working with communities towards reconciliation.

Sony Pictures Imageworks Canada Inc.

658 Homer Street., Suite 405, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2R4

Language in work environment - English

Benefits per company policy: include healthcare, tuition reimbursement, RRSP's, Sick and Vacation leave, standard increases as applicable

Job Summary:   

The Color Scientist is responsible for the development and support of advanced color image processing technologies. This role works closely with our VFX and animated feature film productions. You will analyse and provide technologies that maintain the highest standards for color across our multi-site pipeline. 

This role requires strong technical leadership and the ability to work effectively with minimal supervision alongside a Lead Software Engineer or Architect. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced production environment where priorities can shift quickly.

Job Responsibilities:

• Create color transforms utilizing a broad knowledge of color science fundamentals.
• Evaluate image fidelity, including factors such as color, contrast, noise, grain, compression, etc.
• Interface with outside vendors (DI companies, film labs, clients, etc).
• Programming expertise specific to image processing, color processing, and color transform generation.
• Strong problem solving skills (particularly focused on image processing pipelines).
• Strong communication skills (written, oral, and presentation).

Required Skills: 

• Excellent communication skills and clarity in presenting color pipeline concepts
• Ability to support and collaborate with multiple in-house and external clients
• Act in a leadership role for facility color pipeline initiatives as well as interfacing with the imaging and color science community. 
• Expert understanding of color science principles
• Strong knowledge of HDR and high-resolution imaging, codecs and formats
• Strong knowledge of cinema cameras, onset color management, and DI workflows
• Strong knowledge of display device technologies and calibration
• Engaged with experts in industry initiatives like ACES, OpenColorIO, OpenEXR, ffmpeg, etc.

Desired Experience:

• 3+ years of programming experience in a computer graphics / color science related role (Python / C++ preferred)
• Proven track record of color algorithm design and development for commercial products or projects
• Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field of study
• Color workflow design in a production vfx environment is a plus (managing color in DCCs like Nuke, Mari, Photoshop, Katana, etc.)

The anticipated base salary for this position is within the range of $107,400.00 - $150,000.00/annually. Benefits are per company policy: which include healthcare, tuition reimbursement, RRSP's, Sick and Vacation leave, standard increases as applicable. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location of the position.

We value unique perspectives, and want diverse, unique talent to work with us.  We encourage candidates from all identities to apply.

*Sony Pictures Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.