Overview

Under the direction of the CG Supervisor, Animation Supervisor, and Pipeline Supervisor, the Crowd TD
assists in the creation and implementation of DD’s pipeline and shot production for the team to establish
workflow and procedures for the look and development of crowds/flocking and other similar effects. This will
be achieved using Massive software, as well as any new technology required to meet the specific creative
and technical needs of a show as assigned by the VFX Supervisor and Production Management. The Crowd
TD will also assist in the implementation of an efficient and effective approach to Crowds that allows the
Animation and FX Departments to focus on creating assets that will allow the schedule limitations. This role
an extension of the animation team.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

• Assists in the design, architecture, scheduling and supervision of the studio crowd team and the
  crowd pipeline development, ensuring that the techniques and that a proper QC process is in place
  between all departments going into the show’s shot production pipeline.
• Use the software for artificial intelligence brain building, cycle database management and cycle
  blending efficiency, terrain optimizations, and plug-in development to accomplish specific effects and
  export data, lighting and rendering.
• Utilize Massive and other software tools for artificial intelligence brain building, cycle database
  management and cycle blending efficiency, terrain optimizations, and plug-in development to
  accomplish specific effects and export data, lighting and rendering, and more.
• Track tools development and provide a leadership presence in meetings on all things crowd-related.
• Ensure on-time delivery of Crowd FX elements within established production schedule. If creative
  appetite is too large, present ideas and suggest creative alternatives.
• Document, assist and train other artists and departments during production on the use of Massive and any other crowd pipeline tools as required.
• Troubleshoot creative/technical issues as they arise, as well as contributing to hands-on shot
  production along with other Crowd FX Animators.
• Ensure creative direction from CG Supervisor to the crew are heard and clarified.
• Consistently look for a more efficient way of doing a character effect (i.e. reuse of animation cycles).
• Appropriately elevate concerns to CG Supervisor.
• Identify and utilize tools and techniques which improve productivity and the quality of the work;
  avoid reinvention of the wheel or duplication of effort both within the show and across the facility.
• Participate in the bidding process and strategizes on creative approach for Creature Dev work
  working with the Digital Producer to accurately estimate work-load and resources in creating
  production budgets
• Assist in leading department meetings, managing expectations and providing communications during
  meetings, production.

Qualifications:
Education and/or Experience Required:

• College degree in computer science, art, animation or engineering, or equivalent experience that
  would equal that level of professionalism, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Strong knowledge of the entire post-production process relating to visual effects
• At least 6+ years experience in a visual effects or animation environment, with at least 2+ years
  experience leading a team of artists on at least one completed production.
• Demonstrated knowledge of multiple aspects of Massive Software and pipeline integration is a must.
• Strong knowledge of Maya and Python is a must, a working familiarity with C/C++ and Houdini.
• Must have a sense of strong team dynamics and a positive morale generating style
• Must have strong problem solving mentality and/or the ability to accurately place people who can
  solve a particular problem