Senior Rigging Artist

Requirements

• Duties:
• Rig Development: Build advanced Maya rigs for characters, creatures, and props.
• Deliver animation-friendly rigs that meet artistic and technical standards.
• Deformation: Deliver clean skinning, blendshapes, and deformation setups.
• Tool Creation: Support the team with scalable tools and reliable technical solutions.
• Develop and maintain rigging tools to support team workflows.
• Pipeline Integration: Ensure rigs are stable and compatible with downstream use.
• Collaboration: Work with animation, CFX, and modeling to meet rigging needs. Help define best practices and contribute to pipeline improvements.
• Mentorship: Provide support and review feedback for mid and junior artists. Support the team in elevating both output and efficiency.
• Scene Organisation: Maintain clean hierarchies and naming conventions.
• Troubleshooting: Resolve rig and deformation issues during asset or shot work.
• Skills, attributes and experience:
• Expert-level rigging in Maya using joints, constraints, and utility nodes.
• Deep understanding of Matrix math and the architecture of Maya.
• Strong understanding of anatomy, deformation, and facial rigging setups.
• Proficient in Python / Pyside for scripting and automation.
• Solid communicator with strong problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable working independently on complex rigging tasks.
• Experience with Git and GitLab or equivalent.
• Familiarity with OpenMaya and/or C++.
• Familiarity with USD rig publishing and referencing.
• Understanding of Houdini-based CFX.
• Experience with facial rigs, correctives, and driven systems.
• Ability to review and maintain rig templates and standards.
• Confidence working with pipeline and tools teams.
• 6–8 years in VFX or a related field.
• Excellent communicator, sharing information clearly and actively listening
• Strong time management, ability to prioritize, meet deadlines and escalate delays in a timely manner.
• Adaptable to change with the ability to stay focused and maintain a positive attitude.
• Driven to make things better with flexibility to change course when needed.
• Positive energy, focusing on results and having a positive impact on those around you.
• Self awareness and an ability to resolve and diffuse problems treating others with kindness and respect.
• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work well with others.