Lead Animator

Animators produce the motion and performance of three-dimensional computer graphic characters, creatures, objects and crowds for high-end VFX films.

Lead Animators will be expected to carry out the following responsibilities:

• Lead a team of animators on a show

• Be the key contact for production and supervisor/s. Maintain clear communication, deal with creative challenges, provide solutions and adapt to changes in production & scheduling

• Set and manage team assignments in collaboration with the animation supervisor

• Have a good understanding of the animation tasks the team will be working on and the potential technical and creative challenges involved

• Be prepared to deputy for the animation supervisor if necessary

• Be aware of workflow templates, methodology and documentation; provide to the team where necessary

• Work with technology teams to ensure that department tools are available for the team and properly set up for the show

• Inform supervisors and Head of Department (HOD) of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows

• Effectively manage team to avoid potential conflict or disagreement

• Maintain positive relationships with all other departments and address any issues promptly

• Attend dailies and present the work of your team; guide artists on how to present their work

• Coach, share knowledge and assume some responsibility for the progression of more junior members of the team

• Provide regular feedback to the team to ensure that work is always delivered on time to the highest possible standard

Job requirements

• Previous experience mentoring or leading a team

• Thorough knowledge of Maya

• An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form

• An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools

• The proven ability to work under pressure

• Being open to direction and able to embrace change

• Attention to detail

• Reliable, with good time keeping and the ability to meet deadlines

• Excellent organisation, communication and interpersonal skills

• A demonstrable commitment to creative collaboration within a team and with other departments

• Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills