CG Texture Lead

We are seeking an experienced Texture Lead for an exciting, unannounced CG animated project. The Texture Lead will be instrumental in establishing the visual style of the project, focusing on the surface qualities of characters, props, and environments. Reporting to the CG Supervisors and Production Designers, the ideal candidate will explore and oversee the implementation of efficient and innovative surfacing techniques to realize the desired aesthetic vision of the animated work.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Culver City, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling!

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Lead the CG texture team in developing the project's visual style under the guidance of the Production Designer and CG Supervisor.
• Supervise all surfacing processes, collaborating with other department supervisors to resolve creative and technical issues and ensure consistency with the vendor pipeline.
• Work closely with the CG and Comp Supervisors to guarantee all assets are surfaced to meet performance requirements.
• Manage the schedules and workflows of internal surfacing artists, setting priorities in conjunction with production.
• Review vendor asset bids and collaborate with production to address any surfacing-related overages.
• Generate comprehensive texture guides and process documentation for vendors to replicate the show's surfacing style accurately.
• Participate in departmental reviews and pre-production meetings as needed.
• Interpret and act on notes and feedback promptly and to a high standard.
• Assess vendor surfacing deliveries, providing timely notes and paintovers, and make internal adjustments as necessary.

Qualifications and Skills:

• A degree or diploma in fine arts, animation, or equivalent professional experience.
• 4-6+ years of experience within a professional environment in a related discipline.
• Expertise in UV mapping, texture layout, and a variety of rendering tools such as Maya, Redshift, Renderman, Substance Painter/Designer, ZBrush, Mudbox, Katana, and Nuke.
• Proficiency in Substance Painter, Mari, Mudbox, Zbrush and Maya etc.
• Exceptional painting skills with a comprehensive understanding of color theory.
• Strong design sense and meticulous attention to detail.
• Advanced knowledge of surfacing techniques, including global illumination and subsurface scattering.
• Proven ability to collaborate and implement feedback from the creative and production teams effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and visual, with the ability to listen actively.
• Open to feedback and willing to share knowledge and techniques with team members.
• Competent in liaising with production management to define requirements and troubleshoot potential problems.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to multitask and delegate
• Highly motivated, proactive, with a solutions-oriented approach, solid work ethic, and a positive attitude!

The anticipated base salary for this position is $1,800/week to $2,700/week. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement. The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors.

To apply, please include a resume and a link to your portfolio. Please make sure to include any passwords to your work in your cover letter and/or in your resume.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.