Lead Development Animator, 3D

Description

About Us

DHX Media is recognized worldwide for our diverse original properties and our work on some of the top brands in children’s entertainment. But we create more than just animation. We build worlds and experiences across all platforms from TV and games to online and mobile. Our staff dig into a wide variety of projects, from action to comedy and preschool to tween, and they get to enjoy awesome benefits and company events while they’re at it. With some of Canada’s top artists, writers and producers on our team, our studios are bursting with creative energy. So what are you waiting for? Come join us!

About the Position

DHX Studios – Vancouver is looking for an experienced Lead Development Animator to join our high-caliber Research and Development team. Quite a unique group, the R&D team is responsible for advancing studio technology while creating pitch pieces for garnering new animated projects. Your creative and technical skills will be pushed to the boundaries as you flex your talents on high-quality production shorts, working in uncharted technical territory in a new pipeline. The successful candidate will be passionate about animation and is highly motivated to push the boundaries of what is creatively possible, while championing workflow efficiencies and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Work as solo permanent animator in R&D, occasionally leading animators temporarily allocated to the team to complete assignments to the highest studio standards
• Enlist an arsenal of animation techniques and styles, working collaboratively to achieve creative direction
• Work closely with the R&D CG Supervisor and Pipeline team to establish global toolsets, animation departmental standards and best workflow practices in a young and ever-evolving pipeline
• Continually work to increase episodic optimization and productivity throughout the studio, developing new animation techniques, troubleshooting technical issues, and presenting solutions to streamline animation processes
• Serve as a driving force in the studio, pushing for excellence and technical innovation
• Work closely with rigging to facilitate the best performance possible
• Create and rig proxy models as well as proxy FX for timing as needed
• Assist with animation training and mentoring as needed

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience as a senior or lead animator
• Advanced knowledge in Maya is essential
• Excellent understanding of key-framed animation development processes
• Strong ability to establish and adapt multiple animation styles
• Solid understanding of rigging; experience rigging assets is a plus
• Excellent team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Must be open to direction, while working collaboratively in a close team environment
• Able to adapt to the ever-changing needs in R&D while effectively managing tight deadlines
• Must possess a proactive work ethic, and an ability to work with minimal supervision
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to think creatively, critically, and strategically in order to resolve technical challenges, all while maintaining a positive attitude

THANK YOU to all those who express interest in being a part of the DHX Studios team. Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we may be unable to reply to all applicants. If we feel that you may be a good match for one of our current openings you will be contacted.