Freelance RenderMan Plugin Developer
Contract – 2 to 3 months | Remote (EU/UK time zones preferred)
We’re supporting a cutting-edge immersive media company on the development of a new RenderMan plugin that will integrate into a proprietary volumetric imaging system. This is a short-term freelance role with the opportunity to contribute to a technically ambitious product used in high-end film and virtual production.
The Role
You’ll be responsible for building a custom plugin using the RenderMan SDK, enabling support for a volumetric video format that integrates with standard VFX rendering workflows. The plugin will sit within the studio’s rendering pipeline alongside existing integrations with Arnold, V-Ray, and MoonRay.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Developing a plugin using the RenderMan C++ SDK
* Working on low-level rendering extensions (e.g. camera, output drivers, filters)
* Collaborating with a technical team to ensure compatibility with their existing volumetric pipeline
* Supporting testing and potential debugging if needed
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience developing with the RenderMan SDK (not just using RenderMan for shading/lighting)
* Comfortable creating plugins or extensions such as:
* Custom cameras
* Output drivers
* Geometry/shading modules
* Strong programming skills in C++
* Ideally some Python scripting ability
* Up-to-date knowledge of modern RenderMan versions (not legacy only)
* Comfortable working independently on focused deliverables
Nice to Have
* Experience with other render engines (e.g. Arnold, V-Ray, MoonRay)
* Familiarity with Houdini or Maya rendering workflows
* Background in VFX, animation, or real-time graphics pipelines
Details
* Duration: 2–3 months
* Start date: ASAP or within 4 weeks
* Location: Remote, EU or UK time zone overlap preferred
* Rate: Competitive freelance day rate, negotiable