Layout TA

Flying Bark Productions is a dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The Last Airbender feature film, Netflix's Ghostbusters animated series and Stranger Things animated series, as well as our production Tales From Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan. 

Prioritising candidates based in Sydney, no remote opportunities available.

The Layout TA is responsible for providing technical support for the crew for the Project/s with a focus on Layout and Asset teams under the guidance of the supervising technical crew and Production. They effectively support rendering infrastructure and ensure basic support is being provided to the artists.

About the role:

• Responsible for the technical support and delivery of  layout scenes and assets to downstream departments.
• Ingest and interpret assets and previs files provided by the client into the layout scenes
• Responsible for the continuity and flow of assets and props within and between shots.
• Experience with character rigs and possess a basic understanding of character animation.
• Work with asset departments and the editor to incorporate pre-visualization work into sequences.
• Performs other tasks related to the creation of computer-generated animation as required.
• Work within the constraints of the pipeline, and provide feedback about where workflows could be improved;
• Strong communication and ability to work to a verbal or visual brief, flagging in advance any issues that may impact on achieving milestones;
• Daily technical support to the Layout crews which may include:
• Reviewing and resolving bug reports;
• Quality control for shots delivered from Layout and preparation for delivery to Animation;
• Quality control for shots delivered from to to lighting and Compositing;
• Preparation of Set sweep cameras for modelling and Surfacing
• Preparation of test shots for set lighting.
• VFX Supervisor, Layout Supervisor and Client’s vision is carried throughout the project.
• Continuity and flow between shots is consistent throughout the project.
• Fast problem solving and implementation of solutions.
• Establishing relationships with key members of production and artists.
• Take direction from a Supervisor as required as well as an ability to work autonomously;
• Be adaptable, flexible and responsive to changes.
• Complete tasks within production deadlines.

About you:

• Solid experience and understanding of Maya in a production based environment;
• Solid knowledge of layout 2.5D and 3D workflows, live action and CG camera lens information, camera rigs and cinematography;
• Ability to meet consistently meet deadlines;
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to share information in a team environment;
• Ability to take direction and be flexible and responsive to change;
• Ability to work independently as well as under direct supervision;
• Enthusiasm and passion for animation, cameras and cinematography.
• Enthusiasm and willingness to learn;
• Attention to detail;
• Ability to script using Python and / or Mel (a bonus).

What do we do?

Flying Bark Productions is a renowned independent producer of family-focused animation entertainment. For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility has created award-winning feature films and TV series.

Why work with us?

• We work on some pretty cool projects - check out our website: https://www.flyingbark.com.au/
• We have an industry leading studio space in Alexandria, complete with a cinema, quiet room, Zen Garden, games room, and state of the art animation facilities.
• Breakfast is served daily - on us!
• We have cake days, movie nights, wrap parties & a culture club dedicated to coordinating our busy social calendar!
• The Barkers have big hearts too, with our Paws for a Cause fundraising arm raising much needed funds for charities such as Beyond Blue, RSPCA and the Cancer Council.
• We love dogs and you will often see some of our regular fluffy companions in the studio.
• We have a hybrid approach to work with flexible work from home days on offer.
• Career development is important to us so we offer training and support opportunities whenever possible.
• Our employees say our culture is the best they've ever experienced - everyone is welcome and celebrated!
• You'll have access to mental health resources and free counselling via our Employee Assistance Provider, Support Act.
• Enjoy holistic wellbeing support through discounted health insurance with Bupa, financial wellbeing initiatives from our superannuation partner Media Super, and access to staff qualified in Mental Health First Aid.

Flying Bark Productions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.