Overview

Our Vancouver, BC location is seeking a Technical Lead, Animation to join our animation team. This role is project based, 12-month term.

The Technical Lead in Animation, at the core, is an animator while having an equal understanding of rigging and with a foundation in tools.  They may be assigned animation shots. However, their main objective is to develop technical processes to character and mechanical animation while analyzing and testing rigs so that it may allow for the rigs full performance potential to be reached. He/she will develop techniques and processes for efficient animation while upholding the artistic standards of animation, communicating with Rigging and sharing & teaching these new techniques to the animators.

The right candidate will work with both Animation and Rigging teams to perform quality control on rigs, test and train other animators on how to best utilize the rig’s performance at maximum efficiency; technically and creatively. They will understand rig technology and share feedback. The Technical Lead will be part of the Animation Department and report to the Animation Supervisor.

Responsibilities:

• Test and QC rigs, and internal tools and supply feedback.
• Be the technical point person in the Animation team.
• Test 3rd party technologies as they relate to Animation and internal pipeline.
• Provide technical support and training to animators on new rig settings.
• Write animation tools & scripts when required.
• May be assigned animation shots as required.
• Takes feedback and works in a timely and qualitatively manner.
• Interacts and work with other related departments including Rigging, Creative Layout, Camera and Tools.
• Receive technical guidance from TDs as required.
• Adhere to digital file management protocols & maintain documentation as required.
• Knowledge and adherence to requirements of the Character FX department (muscle systems, hair, fur, cloth, crowd simulations, etc.

Qualifications:

• 3 years’ min experience as an Animator within a VFX or Animation studio.
• Strong knowledge of Maya’s deformer and constraints tool set.
• 2 years’ minimum experience in scripting in Python and process building.
• Extensive working knowledge of Maya.
• Understanding of Houdini, Alembic & Maya API is an asset.
• Experience with rigging an asset.
• Knowledge of Ziva an asset but not required.
• Past experience in the technical process and tools that drive animation.
• Excellent English communication skills both verbal and written.
• Ability to communicate technical ideas fluidly.
• Mentor other artists including juniors.
• Adaptable to change.
• Pro-active, highly motivated with a solid work ethic.
• Team player.
• Strong problem solving abilities.
• Accountable.
• Able to keep up with fast pace and meet deadlines.
• Up-to-date reel showcasing required skill set.