Overview
ABOUT IMAGE ENGINE
Based in Vancouver BC, we are a world-class visual effects studio 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.
Well known for our Academy Award Nominated work on Neill Blomkamp’s District 9, we have gone on to create numerous incredible creatures, epic environments and extraordinary digital effects for a broad range of feature films including; Zero Dark Thirty, Jurassic World, Game of Thrones, and Independence Day Resurgence.
We can do this because we place awesome new tools in the hands of our artists. R&D is central to our philosophy of driving creativity through innovation, with a focus on continually evolving our robust production pipelines and pioneering in the area of proprietary software development.
POSITION PURPOSE
The Senior Layout Artist is responsible for delivering high quality layouts in a quick and efficient manner. They will act as an example to and mentor junior artists and will deliver all tasks within the required timeframe. They will work with the Lead to translate previs or storyboards into usable 3D shots or sequences.This will include but will not be limited to camera set up, rough animation, environments, and asset blocking. They will have a creative eye and generalist experience to effectively set up shots and sequences. Senior Layout artists will be able to apply briefing notes with minimal direction from team Leads or Supervisors. They will quality check all of their work and occasionally will assist the Leads to quality check the work of junior artists should the workload require it.
In addition, Senior Layout artists will assist the Lead to flag issues, quality check their work and occasionally they work of others. They will potentially assist in the Lead role on a short term basis in the event of an absence or production needs require it. They will participate in team meetings when necessary.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Apply client notes to all layouts with minimal guidance
Communicate with downstream departments to ensure the setup enables artists to complete their work in the most effective manner
Breakdown previs or 2D story board into 3D shots or sequences
Stage all shots in line with the VFX Supervisor/Directors creative vision
Overcome technical issues (day to day problem solving), in conjunction with R&D and the CG Supervisor
Set up data to maximize throughput
Work with R&D to develop and suggest tools
Evaluate artists work to set and maintain quality standards
Work with Layout team, as required, to maintain continuity; as well as, support other departments to ensure information is communicated down the pipeline
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
5+ years’ of Layout experience with high end film
Experience with managing large datasets
Ability to adapt matchmove cameras/data fit for environment or sequence context
Thorough understanding of traditional art skills (Form, architecture, anatomy, topology, color theory) and how to apply those skills in a digital medium
Excellent attention to detail when finalizing, approving or quality controlling layouts
Ability to balance quick turnaround while achieving a high degree of aesthetic quality
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Ability to communicate with downstream departments to assess needs
Senior level knowledge in Maya and Nuke
Knowledge of Houdini is a plus
Experience with LINUX/UNIX
Ability to come up with creative and efficient rendering solutions
Strong understanding of sequences versus shots
Ability to learn pipeline and workflow quickly
CORE SKILLS
Ability to help with bidding; determine the timeframe and scope required for each project
Ability to troubleshoot and deal with competing priorities and projects
Ability to adapt quickly to new technologies and applications
Excellent time management and communication skills
