Principal Technical Artist

Description

SUMMARY OF POSITION
Warner Bros. Games Inc. seeks a Principal Technical Artist for the WBG Monolith Art department. The Principal Technical Artist is an individual contributor who is a recognized expert in their field and holds a wealth of knowledge in dealing with the technical issues around content creation for video games. The Principal technical Artists will produce work that is at the highest level of quality and difficulty. They have a proven track record of resolving the most complex and broad reaching challenges in relationship to content construction, pipeline management and leading edge visuals. This is a ‘forward looking’ role. In addition to current “best practices” and competitive awareness, the Principal is expected to understand emerging trends and technologies in video game content and make strategic recommendations as to how they may benefit and/or impact the organization. The Principal makes important contributions to key Monolith initiatives and projects and participates in setting product and/or functional vision within the studio. Areas the Principal Technical Artist is responsible for include visual R&D, performance monitoring, standard setting, as well as process and pipeline issues. 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the Director of Technical Art in:
  • Defining content aspirations for the studio.
  • Identifying and or selecting tools and technologies to enhance the content creation process.
  • Improving and evolving production and organization structures.
  • Collaborate with other technical and aesthetic experts within the company to define clear goals for the toolset, pipeline and construction processes.
• Analyze competitive products and makes recommendations to senior management.
• The Principal Technical Artist spearheads R&D efforts for tools, content and new technologies in relationship to art and Aesthetics.
• Collaborates with the art Leadsand the Director of Technical Art on establishing shared Art Cultures and best practices.
• Participates in setting strategic vision for content and tools.
• Collaborates with engineering to develop cutting edge tools and technologies.
• Works with the other content producers to ensure proper game performance and optimizations.
• Identifies and test external 3rd party tools that would help maintain our leading edge in content constructions and visuals.
• Identifies and executes on the most difficult content creation problems for the project:
  • Set pieces (blowing up a city, an entire level falling out of a plane).
  • Systemic (developing content guideline and pipelines for the nemesis system.).
• Identifies and executes solutions to Pipeline and technology deficiencies within the studio.
• Researches future solutions or cutting edge content technologies.
• Reviews pipelines and content creation process to identify best practices.

• Minimum 2-year 2D/3D art degree, architecture degree, or equivalent with excellent critique and vocabulary skills. BFA or equivalent preferred.
• 12 or more years of art or animation.
• Must have shipped Multiple 3D titles.
• Strong technical proficiency in understanding proprietary tools and technology.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Must be familiar the majority of modern 3D software packages (Maya, 3D Studio Max, Motion Builder,zBrush etc.).
• Strong understanding ofgame development process.
• Strong understanding of methods of optimizing game art assets for game engines and optimizing pipelines and processes.
• Strong understanding of Python /C#/Scripting Languages or similar systems required.
• A Strong understanding of modern 3d engines and the technology behind them.
• Solid experience and understanding of art/animation pipelines on modern game consoles.
• Up to date knowledge of current art techniques and development processes.
• Strong 2D drawing and digital painting skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and with deadlines.
• Diligence with individual and team tasks, schedule and adherence to budget limitations.
• Strong interest in computer or video games.
• Strong Troubleshooting skills.
• Positive attitude and a desire to bring new ideas to the team.
• Passion for making and playing great games, with an awareness of current titles and industry trends.