Josh Baldaro Email & Phone Number

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

Working as part of the pipeline team, I am responsible for supporting the production of new tools for artists and developing new workflows, with a primary focus on integrating USD into REALTIME's existing pipeline and tool suite. My key responsibilities include:● Layer Management & Publishing tools: Developing efficient USD layer management systems to handle complex asset structures, ensuring smooth integration across departments.● Streamlining Workflows: Creating tools and scripts to automate time-consuming processes between DCCs like Houdini and Maya, reducing manual tasks and improving data consistency.● USD Integration: Spearheading the incorporation of USD workflows into the pipeline, improving scalability and scene organisation, and enabling artists to work on larger, more complex projects with ease.● Artist Training: Conducting training sessions for artists of varying experience levels to help them integrate USD into their workflows effectively, ensuring that the team can take full advantage of the new tools and processes.● Collaboration: Working closely with artists and technical teams to gather feedback and improve tool functionality, ensuring the solutions meet the needs of both creative and technical departments.● Stakeholder Presentations: Presenting technical updates and new solutions to key stakeholders, providing clear insights into how tools will enhance productivity and reduce bottlenecks.

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

After completing the Level Up Programme (LUP), I transitioned into a Junior Generalist role, where I focused more on solidifying my skills and began transitioning into a Pipeline TD position. During this time, I gained a deeper understanding of pipeline development and workflow optimisation while honing the skills needed for a technical role. Key responsibilities included:● Pipeline Focus: Began transitioning towards pipeline work, contributing to the development and refinement of tools used for USD integration and asset management across departments.● Transition to Technical Role: Started taking on tasks more aligned with a Pipeline TD role, including scripting, tool development, and supporting artists with technical challenges in production.● Procedural FX Refinement: Continued to work on procedural FX tasks, improving both speed and accuracy in producing high-quality simulations and effects for production needs.This role was crucial in my journey from a generalist position to taking on more responsbilities within the pipeline team, setting the stage for my current role as a Junior Pipeline TD.

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

As part of the Level Up Programme (LUP), I had the oppurtunity to receive focused training while contributing to key projects. This experience allowed me to work alongside senior professionals and refine my skills in production scenarios. Key responsibilities and achievements included:● Training in Procedural FX: Gained hands-on experience in Houdini, focusing on creating procedural effects and dynamic simulations under the guidance of senior artists.● Pipeline Development Exposure: Assisted with finding the foundation for further development of USD into the pipeline, while learning fundamental pipeline development principles.● Collaborative Learning Across Departments: Worked closely with departments such as rigging, FX and CFX, gaining a holistic understanding of the production pipeline and its challenges.● Mentorship and Feedback: Received regular guidance from mentors, helping me to develop both technical skills and production readiness for a full-time role.Key Projects:● Doctor Who: Wild Blue Yonder [60th Anniversary Special] (2023)Assisted in CFX workflows and contributed to shots with high visual demands, working within established pipelines to deliver on production needs.● Jurassic Park: Survival Game Trailer (2023)Contributed to procedural environments and effects, refining my FX skills while working on a cinematic trailer for a major game release.This roel provided me with the foundation for my transition into a full-time Junior Generalist, equipping me with the skills and knowledge to tackle more complex pipeline challenges.

Nottingham, England, United Kingdom

As a CERT Mentor, I supported first-year students by providing technical guidance and facilitating their understanding of key concepts. My responsibilities included:• Houdini Workshop & Technical Training: Delivered practical workshops on Houdini and other VFX tools, covering procedural workflows and simulation techniques.• Project Feedback: Reviewed student projects, offering detailed feedback to help them refine their technical and creative approaches.• Ongoing Mentorship: Acted as a go-to resource for students, providing academic and personal support throughout their first year.

Nottingham, England, United Kingdom

In my role as a Course Ambassador, I represented the university during recruitment events, showcasing the unique learning environment and facilities. I was responsible for:• Open Days & Talks: Engaged with prospective students, providing insights into the course structure and my personal experience.• Virtual Production & VFX Demonstrations: Led demonstrations of Confetti’s virtual production LED volumes and VFX suites, highlighting the practical applications of these technologies within the course.

As Class Representative, I was the bridge between students and faculty, ensuring that student feedback was heard and acted upon. My role involved:• Student Feedback Gathering: Collected and organized feedback from classmates regarding the curriculum and resources.• Presenting Feedback: Presented feedback to course leaders and school managers, helping drive improvements in the learning experience.• Problem Resolution: Worked with faculty to address concerns and implement changes that benefitted the class.

Bsc Visual Effects Production Technology, Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics And Special Effects, First-Class Honours

A-Level, Mathematics And Computer Science