Lead Technical Director

As a Lead Technical Director, you will guide a development and support team in building innovative tools for the production teams to efficiently create animated films at Skydance. The goal of these efforts is to implement solutions that off-the-shelf software could not otherwise provide, while maximizing productivity with the high-quality standard set by the company. The scope of the developments may be from a simple Python script to a larger development involving complex algorithms.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates and supports the artists and production management.
• Partners with artists and other engineers to iterate, debug, document, and refine tools and processes for feature film production.
• Acts as the first support line to solve day-to-day problems artists may encounter.
• Reports to the TD Supervisor on the status of technical development projects, tool performance, production operations and support statuses.
• Continually examines production’s user experiences, satisfaction, and level of understanding to identify areas of improvement to the production pipelines.
• Keeps up on current artistic methodologies and on technology trends and tools that best suit the production and the company in the development of a stronger creative and technical environment.
• Works together with the team providing them with support, guidance and instruction in areas that contribute towards their artistic and professional growth.
• Follows the Supervisor’s and Lead's guidance.
• Strong project management skills; being self-motivated, organized, resourceful and prudent, supported with excellent communication skills.
• Leads the team providing them with support, guidance and instruction in areas that contribute towards their artistic and professional growth, making sure all the assets follow the quality standards and artistic direction and that achieve the deadlines.

Requirements

• 6+ years in VFX or animation industries.
• 1+ experience in animation industry.
• BS degree in Computer Science, similar technical field of study, or equivalent practical experience.
• Deep understanding of the 3D animated film production pipelines, and workflows (artistic and technical).
• Expert in Python.
• Experience building tools for the following software: Maya, Houdini, and Nuke.
• Experience in Linux and Windows operating systems.
• Experience in C++ is a plus.
• Experience working with version control systems (Git).
• Experience with Renderman and Arnold is a plus.
• Ability to document digital processes and Technical Solutions.
• Practical knowledge in continuous delivery and agile methodologies.
• Applies innovative processes and techniques by bringing new ideas or solutions.
• Advanced English level.
• Spanish oral and written a plus.

The annual range for this non-exempt position in Connecticut is $81.72hr - $93.75hr. The rate offered may vary based on the candidate’s location, qualifications, experience and relevant expertise, among other factors. The range indicated is for base salary only and does not reflect the total compensation package, including bonus, benefits, etc. 

We realize that skills and expertise can come from many different experiences and paths, and we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements as written in the job description.

#Animation #LI-onsite