Overview

The Lead Creature Effects TD is responsible for leading a small team in designing and creating simulations related to the realistic movement of a creature, including clothing, hair, fur, skin and muscles. This person will also take charge of the continuing improvement of Image Engine’s Creature Effects workflow and tools.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsible for delivering the Simulation (Cloth, Muscle and Skin, Hair and Fur) and Technical Animation work (pre and post) for the show/department
Responsible for working with the relevant Producers and Supervisors to assess, assign and lead the implementation of Creature Effects needs
Build and maintain Dynamic rigs of varying complexity (hero and background assets, digital doubles etc), to meet the requirements of the show
Address supervisor and client comments by integrating solutions into assets or providing one-off shot fixes as appropriate to deliver required results with maximum efficiency
Attend/lead dailies, reviews, and team meetings as required
Work with the rigging, assets, animation and other departments, as required, to maintain continuity between projects and ensure information is communicated up and down the pipeline
Write utility scripts and provide input regarding existing tools and interfaces for creature FX pipeline and workflow
Responsible for achieving high quality work within the time constraints given
Responsible for the clear communication of creature FX goals and working processes between all departments
Provide guidance on how to best achieve a certain effect within the available show pipeline
Estimate the time required for tasks and provide accurate progress reports
Mentor junior artists

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
5 years+ of feature film/TV production experience
The CFX Lead should have 5+ years of progressive experience leading small to medium size teams (i.e. 3+ people) on large projects (300+ shots).
Strong understanding of real-world physics and anatomy and a desire to learn more depending on the requirements of the project
Proficient in Maya
Strong communication skills and a clear understanding of animation requirements. The applicant must be able to work alongside other creative and technical artists.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Technical skills
Ability to train and coach artists in Maya
Experience with Linux based OS
Deep understanding of the Maya dynamics tool sets and ability to quickly pick up proprietary tools and pipeline
Experience with Houdini is also preferred
Working knowledge of at least one scripting language (python preferred)
Excellent eye for detail for quality control
Rigging knowledge is a plus

Core skills
Ability to assist with bids
Ability to troubleshoot and deal with competing priorities
Capable of managing a team of artists; setting expectations, and managing their time
The ability to work alongside, communicate with, and understand the requirements of Animators, CG and VFX Supervisors, Assets Department, FX, Lighting, Comp, R&D and Pipeline developers
Strong leadership skills
Excellent problem solver who can focus on detail, while maintaining the whole picture
Excellent time management and communication skills