Lead Modeler - Feature Animation

Position Summary

At Industrial Light & Magic we’re pushing the boundaries of feature animation, combining artistic vision with cutting-edge technology.

We are looking for a Lead Modeler to work within our Feature Animation team who reflects the collaborative mindset, excellence and passion for great filmmaking that define ILM.

The Lead Modeler is responsible for leading other artists with patience and respect to make sure they are supported and successful. They have the ability to help bid, delegate and create photoreal and stylized assets for extreme close up and hero use as well as review model assets and manage show expectations.

Prior experience in feature animation is essential as you’ll be instrumental in delivering projects that uphold ILM’s legacy of excellence and innovation.

What You’ll Do:

• Help with handoffs and communicating asset goals and notes between artists, production and supervision.
• Works with Supervisors and HOD to determine the best approach for complex issues.
• Instigates and explores workflow strategies for complex assets.
• Collaboration with a cross-functional team, including Texture Artists, Lookdev TDs, Creature Artists and other Model Artists, to be a key artist in the desired concept and topology aspects of assets.
• Support environment and set dressing artists with efficient large scale assets and model kits

What We’re Looking For:

• Significant proven experience in Feature Animation Projects at a Lead level and proven ability to deliver complex shots to the highest level of quality.
• Ability to maintain the team's asset presentation and delivery standards across multiple shows.
• Flexibility working across character, hard surface and large scale assets.
• Comfort in managing hero models needs beyond the level of detail provided in reference.
• Distilling the creative vision from clients into notes for artists to follow.
• Experience working closely with production on a large scale feature.

Technical Skills

• Established production experience with Maya.
• A good understanding of a full Feature Animation pipeline.
• Strong skills in developing advanced subdivision surfaces model assets.
• Comfortable exploring concept sculpts in software such as Zbrush.
• Ability to use node networks such as Houdini a plus.
• Ability to use shotgrid is a plus.

As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required.

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