Head of Department - Systems Engineering (Animation & VFX Industry)

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Head of Systems Engineering to lead 
our technical operations in the animation and VFX industry. This role combines hands-on 
systems administration expertise with leadership responsibilities, ensuring the effective 
delivery of critical infrastructure and services to support our creative workflows.

The ideal candidate will have 5 years of experience in a similar role, a proven track record of 
team management, and deep technical knowledge of systems optimization and security. You 
will act as a strategic partner to production and creative leadership, driving innovation and 
efficiency while maintaining operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Departmental Oversight

● Oversee the Systems Administration team, ensuring alignment with studio objectives
● Set departmental goals, track performance, and provide mentorship to team members
● Develop and manage budgets for IT infrastructure, software, and hardware needs
● Collaborate with production, creative, and IT teams to identify and implement 
scalable solutions

Software Administration

● Manage, install, and troubleshoot Autodesk, Adobe, and Foundry products
● Administer RLV and FlexLM licensing systems to ensure uninterrupted access for 
users

Network & Firewall Management

● Configure, monitor, and maintain Fortinet firewalls
● Manage Arista switches, VLAN configurations, and routing for high-performance 
networking
● Optimize WiFi technology for seamless connectivity across the studio
Virtualization & Infrastructure Management
● Deploy, manage, and maintain virtualized environments using Proxmox and/or 
VMware
● Monitor performance, resource allocation, and scalability of virtual machines and 
containers

Scripting & Automation

● Develop and maintain scripts using PowerShell, Bash, and Python to streamline 
operations and improve system performance
User and Asset Management
● Oversee Active Directory, including user accounts, group policies, and permissions
● Implement and maintain Snipe-IT Asset Management for tracking hardware and 
software inventory
Security Compliance & Vulnerability Management
● Perform regular vulnerability scans and implement remediation strategies
● Lead the studio in achieving and maintaining TPN (Trusted Partner Network) or 
MPAA (Motion Picture Association) security compliance
Strategic Initiatives
● Research and recommend new technologies to enhance studio operations and 
creative workflows
● Establish best practices for systems administration to support the studio’s evolving 
needs

Qualifications:

● 5 years as a Systems Administrator or Head of Systems in the animation, VFX, or 
creative industries
● At least 2 years of leadership or team management experience
Technical Skills
● Proficiency with Autodesk, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Foundry software
● Hands-on experience with RLV and FlexLM licensing systems
● Strong knowledge of Fortinet firewalls and Arista networking, including VLANs and 
routing
● Scripting abilities in PowerShell, Bash, and Python
● Familiarity with Active Directory, including group policies and user account 
management
● Understanding of WiFi technologies and optimization
Nice-to-Have Skills
● Familiarity with TPN/MPAA security compliance processes
● Experience with Snipe-IT Asset Management
● Knowledge of vulnerability scanning tools and techniques
What We Offer
● Competitive salary and benefits package
● Opportunity to lead a talented team in a creative and collaborative environment
● Professional development and training opportunities
● Access to cutting-edge technology and tools