CG Shader Artist

Nickelodeon Animation Studios CG Department - Shader Artist

Summary of Job:

Shader Development and Texture Painting. Must have extensive knowledge of shaders in Maya and how to manipulate them to achieve desired looks. An Extensive knowledge of Mental Ray Shaders preferred. A successful Shader Artist will need to have both a technical/coding background and an artistic eye. Must also be skilled in creating painterly, stylized, procedural, and photorealistic textures in several specified styles. The ideal candidate must have a critical eye with his or her own work, be able to follow reference material and concept art, be organized, and have the ability to problem solve, be resourceful and creative, and work well with a team.

Responsibilities:

Set up Maya/Mental Ray shaders/shader networks and use them to achieve desired looks.
Apply procedural shading techniques.
Troubleshoot shader issues.
Provide shader support to the texture team.
Creation and maintenance of shader libraries
Ability to texture in several specified styles per CG show.
Creation and maintenance of Mel scripts for the texture team.
Texture paint 3D characters, props, and sets within Maya, Photoshop, and BodyPaint.

Background, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required at Minimum:

Must have a portfolio and DVD demo reel that demonstrates shader and texture painting skills.
Minimum 2 years experience in the television, gaming, or feature film industries.
Advanced level skills in Maya and Mental Ray with shading networks and capabilities.
Understanding of MEL and expressions.
Excellent artistic, painting, and texturing skills.
Ability to create high quality texture maps, including all supporting maps (bump, specular, transparency, etc).
In-depth understanding of surface qualities and light interaction.
In-depth understanding of color theory and application.
Understanding of UV layout and principles.
Understanding of the CG Pipeline.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills. Ability to multitask effectively, prioritize competing demands, and follow through on details. Must be flexible enough to deal with changing role requirements.
Ability to work as part of a team as well as be resourceful and self-driven.

Please include a cover letter and resume stating the position or positions to which you are applying.