Facial Animator (Temp)

At Visual Concepts, we believe great games are made by diverse and empowered teams with a shared passion for play. As one of the world’s top game development studios, we have shipped over 100 multi-sku titles to critical acclaim and commercial success. Our teams are independent and entrepreneurial. Our studios in Novato, Foothill Ranch, Irvine, Budapest, Shanghai, Austin, Boise, Seoul, and Parksville, Canada are committed to artistry and technical innovation, offering top candidates the opportunity to learn and grow with some of the smartest and most creative minds in the industry.

What We Need:

Our Novato studio is looking for a Facial Animator (Temporary), to work with the developers of the critically acclaimed NBA2K video game franchise! This position will report directly to the Art Director.

 What You Will Do:

• Produce realistic facial animation with strong timing and acting skills, including mocap cleanup and key frame animation
• Work with motion capture data for both cinematic and in-game features
• Utilize facial tracking/solving software to track facial features and retarget to face rigs
• Work closely with the lead and senior animators to modify assets meeting game-ready requirements
• Observing and animating the subtleties of facial expression
• Addressing feedback in a timely manner while meeting project deadlines and milestones
• Collaborating with other members of the team to work through issues and achieve high quality animations

 Who Will Be A Great Fit:

• 2+ years of professional animation experience in video games or feature films
• Outstanding demo reel demonstrating good understanding of animation principles with a focus on expressive facial animation
• Study in the field of 3D Animation, Motion Capture, or Film
• Have a thorough knowledge of Maya
• Ability to follow instructions and efficiently manage their workload on their own initiative
• Comfortable with deadlines and a fast turnaround time
• Has excellent work ethic and works well with others
• Love for video games (not just ours!)

 Might Be Nice:

• Previous Mocap experience
• Experience with facial motion tracking (software such as Faceware or Dynamixyz)
• Working knowledge of Mel or Python scripting

The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be $40.00 -  $50.00 per hour. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an 'at-will position' and the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

To learn more about Visual Concepts and our studio locations, check out our website at www.vcentertainment.com