Animation Technical Director (TD) Animation · Willows Farm Studio, Ballam Road, Westby, Preston[...]

As an Animation Technical Director (TD), you will play a pivotal role in enhancing and optimizing the workflow of artists within the animation department. As an integral part of the Animation Department, you will collaborate with the greater Pipeline Department to ensure smooth coordination between technical and creative workflows. You will be responsible for identifying, developing and maintaining tools to streamline processes and elevate productivity.You’ll work closely with Directors, Producers, Supervisors and Lines Managers, providing technical insights and solutions, ensuring alignment with project goals, timelines, and creative vision throughout the production process.Key Responsibilities:Design and implement tools, custom features, and add-ons within animation software to enhance efficiency for animators and layout artists. Continuously assess and refine tools to ensure optimal performance.Maintaining tool integrate with the current pipeline, enhancing efficiency and workflow while addressing evolving project requirements and technical challengesServe as a resource for colleagues, offering guidance and troubleshooting assistance for technical issues within animation software. Actively engage in problem-solving to address challenges promptly.Monitor workflows and identify areas for improvement. Collaborate with team members to streamline operations and enhance overall productivity.Work closely with animators to provide technical support, develop custom tools, and optimize workflows. Foster seamless collaboration between departments to facilitate project progression.Facilitate integration with our partner’s and clients' pipelines by understanding their workflows and adapting our tools and processes to achieve efficient collaboration.Provide briefing and comprehensive onboarding for new team members to ensure a smooth integration into the animation department's workflow and toolset.Supervise various technical aspects of the animation pipeline, including rigging, data ingesting, publishing, CFX, versioning, scripting, and tool development.Maintain and update existing tools and utilities to ensure smooth functionality throughout the production process. Conduct testing and validation of rigs, assets and tools from external partners.Provide frontline support to animators and layout artists, troubleshooting assets and shots, and assisting with general problem-solving. Liaise with the Rigging Department to address technical issues effectively.Stay informed about project schedules and deviations, offering advice and solutions as needed to maintain project timelines and quality standards.Keep informed with the latest technologies and suggest how to improve workflows by implementing innovative solutions and technologies.Essential Skills & Experience:Extensive experience in Maya, Houdini, MotionBuilder, with beneficial knowledge of Unreal and Metahuman.Advanced knowledge of Python and C++ programming languages with the ability to develop and implement tools effectively.
Experience of publishing to a USD pipeline would be advantageous. Proven track record of production experience using Maya to Houdini and Maya to Unreal pipelines.
Full comprehension of the 3D animation pipeline, including rigging, CFX, animation, rendering, and process automation.Ability to think analytically and creatively to identify and resolve technical challenges efficiently, maintaining a positive and proactive approach under pressure.Ability to write documentation and tutorials to share with the team members, and guide them in a clear and efficient way.
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