Lead Animator

1 month ago


Owasso, United States Cherokee Nation Businesses Full time

SUMMARY
Leverage cutting-edge technologies to create lifelike, immersive, and dynamic animations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Includes the following:
• Oversees entire animation process, from conceptualization to final execution; ensures all animations meet or exceed industry standards.
• Provides creative and technical expertise in the development of complex animation sequences and D motion graphics.
• Consults with management to determine scope of each project.
• Collaborates closely with video production and other departments to ensure seamless integration of animations into final projects.
• Executes tasks with minimal supervision and ensures deadlines are met while maintaining the highest quality standards.
• Follows established Cherokee Nation Businesses (CNB) style guides and brand standards to ensure consistency in message.
• Makes all requested changes/corrections promptly and correctly.
• Informs and advises management on the status of departmental affairs and project concerns, including but not limited to design related computer hardware/software needs, upgrades, and training.
• Stays abreast of the latest industry trends and technologies and shares knowledge with video production department to facilitate continuous improvement and innovation.
• Archives art files as outlined in department procedures and by management.
• Identifies and resolves complex technical challenges in the animation pipeline.
• Troubleshoots and solves technical issues related to animations.
• Ensures animations meet technical constraints and artistic standards.
• Performs regular reviews and provides constructive feedback.
• Assists on shoots and facilitates usage of CNB studio. 
• Provides on-location production assistance.
• Performs other job-related duties as required.

SUPERVISORY/MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
Lead and/or guide the work of other employees.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s degree in animation, graphic design, visual effects, computer science, or other related field, and ten () to fifteen () years of designer/animator experience or an equivalent combination or education and experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
• Advanced knowledge with PC and Apple/Mac products and hardware.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Advanced knowledge of the latest motion and performance capture workflows, technologies, and trends for film and interactive entertainment.
• Advanced knowledge of skeletal rigging for digital characters and assets. 
• Advanced knowledge of Unreal Engine, animation blueprints, and real-time engines.
• Advanced knowledge of D Animation, motion, and performance capture software applications.
• Advanced knowledge of industry-standard software such as Cinema D, Maya, Blender, Unity, or similar tools.
• Advanced knowledge of Octane Renderer.
• Working knowledge of industry standard camera systems, namely Sony, Canon, or RED.
• Excellent presentation, written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent project management and organization skills including attention to detail.
• Ability to identify alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
• Ability to prioritize work and successfully meet deadlines within an agile development team.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work will be performed in a variety of settings, including, climate-controlled office settings and/or outdoors in all types of weather. Work will require working both indoors and outdoors frequently. Work may require working in extreme weather conditions including, but not limited to, extreme cold or heat, ice, and snow. Work requires lifting objects up to lbs. Work may require travel, including overnight stays. Work may require varied shifts, including weekends and holidays, as needed, including working outside normal working hours and/or work long hours for time sensitive projects.