DreamWorks Animation Seeks Rigging TDs at both studio locations:  *Glendale, CA   *Redwood City, CA

The Character Technical Director is responsible for constructing 3D character rigs and animation interfaces, and establishing muscle, skin, hair, fur and/or clothing behaviors which range from broad squash and stretch to realistic physical simulations.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
 
* Design, create, test and maintain character set ups
* Work with Modeling to create a model that meets technical needs
* Work with R&D to design, debug and evaluate new tools
* Collaborate with animators to design motion controls
* Develop and maintain character motion and deformation systems
* Develop new techniques and processes to solve character production challenges
* Work with PE and/or Dept TDs to integrate and maintain setups
* Work with FX and CharFX to provide them with information needed to integrate characters and digital effects
* Work with Lighting to achieve final model for rendering
* Write utility scripts and programs to streamline the setup process
* Communicate information about new tools and techniques to others on show and across shows
* Facilitate communication between all departments mentioned above
* Work with production management to prioritize tasks
* Keep supervisors informed of progress, changes, roadblocks and other critical issues
* Participate in training, recruiting and other global department tasks as requested
                    

Qualifications, Education and/or Experience:
  
* 3+ years production experience
* Knowledge of traditional animation techniques and the principles of character motion
* Knowledge of anatomy
* Training in visual arts and understanding of form, geometry and movement
* Knowledge of academics such as linear algebra, trigonometry, geometry, calculus and differential geometry
* Knowledge in programming and software development skills
* Unix experience desired
* Excellent communication and presentation skills


How to apply:

Please paste/copy resume into the body of an email with "Character/Rigging TD" in the subject line.  Then send to This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it   Do not send attachments due to virus concerns.


About us:

DreamWorks Animation develops and produces high quality computer generated (CG) animated films. Our recent releases include Madagascar, Wallace & Gromit The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, and Over the Hedge.

We offer a casual, fun & collaborative work environment; free food; onsite dry-cleaning, film developing and car wash services; training and artistic development classes; discounts to movie theatres, theme parks, zoos, Hewlett Packard and Verizon wireless products; and movie screenings.

www.dreamworksanimation.com