Overview

ABOUT IMAGE ENGINE
Well known for our work on Neill Blomkamp’s District 9, Image Engine has gone on to create numerous incredible creatures, epic environments and extraordinary digital effects for a broad range of feature films! We are led by a team of creative and passionate individuals who are committed to furthering the art of visual storytelling, and helping our exceptionally talented crew to push the boundaries of artistic and technical achievement at our studio.

POSITION PURPOSE
The Mid-level Animator is responsible for delivering high quality work in a quick and efficient manner. They will apply notes provided by the Animation Supervisor/Leads. They will manage their time effectively to ensure tasks are completed within the assigned timeframe and to the specifications requested by Image Engine clients. They will identify and troubleshoot problems as needed and will ask for assistance when necessary to ensure effective use of time and resources.

They will begin quality checking their own work and assisting Senior artists to develop new concepts and approaches to improve work quality. They will push themselves to complete shots of increasing levels of difficulty and seek feedback from Lead Animators/Animation Supervisor. They will participate in all team meetings when necessary.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Work primarily with Animation Supervisor/Leads to create convincing performances and motion of character/non-character assets
Animate character/non-character assets from simple to difficult with a minimum of supervision
Work with production and supervisor team to understand and manage schedules and shot deadlines
Work with animation team to maintain continuity and consistent performance within a show
Communicate successes and challenges faced by the team to the Animation Lead
Manage time and resources to meet weekly targets
Provide input regarding tools and interfaces to improve throughput
Animate dynamic, believable and appealing characters/non-character assets
Attend dailies, reviews, and team meetings as required
Accurately address critique and comments from supervisors, and ensure that revisions are completed in a timely manner

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
3+ years’ of experience animating character and non-character assets for VFX/feature films
Knowledge of traditional animation principles, acting, film production and compositional design
Ability to animate multiple types of character/non-character assets from simple to complex
Strong visual storyteller and well-versed in cinematography: camera angles, composition and continuity
Excellent attention to detail
Ability to balance quick turnaround while achieving a high degree of aesthetic quality

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Technical skills
Expert level knowledge of Maya
A working knowledge of Motion Capture and/or Rigging is a plus
Ability to come up with creative and efficient rendering solutions

Core skills
Ability to troubleshoot and deal with competing priorities and projects
Ability to take direction positively, work well within a diverse group, and thrive under the pressure of tight production deadlines
Ability to adapt quickly to new technologies and applications
Excellent time management and communication skills