Creature Technical Director (Character Technical Artist / Rigger)

TL;DR

Creature Technical Director (Maya/Unreal): Design and build advanced animation rigs and systems for high-end characters and creatures with an accent on real-time production workflows and proprietary toolsets. Focus on optimizing character setup processes, integrating performance capture, and developing scripting tools to facilitate art production.

Location: San Francisco, California, United States

Salary: $94,100 – $120,400 per year

Company

hirify.global is the leading effects facility in the world, serving the motion picture, commercial production, and attraction industries.

What you will do

• Design, build, and test advanced animation rigs, setups, and systems for characters, creatures, and vehicles using Maya, Unreal, and proprietary toolsets.
• Develop and maintain workflows to expedite the character setup and animation process.
• Write scripts to facilitate art production and improve technical efficiency.
• Integrate performance capture animation for both body and face.
• Collaborate with Modelers, Animators, Designers, and Engineers to bring characters to life.
• Participate in concept testing, rapid prototyping, and project planning.

Requirements

• 3+ years of experience as a Character TD, Technical Artist-Rigger, or Technical Animator in AAA game development.
• 2+ years of production experience with Maya and Maya API.
• Strong proficiency in Maya Python/PyMEL, C++ API, and PySide/PyQt GUI design.
• Deep understanding of anatomy, kinematics, deformation, and basic animation principles.
• Experience with run-time, blend-tree based animation systems.
• A portfolio or reel submission with a detailed breakdown of work is required.

Nice to have

• Expertise in Unreal Animation features: blueprints, component anims, physics-based anims, Sequencer, and Control Rig.
• Experience with cloth, hair, fracturing, and rigid simulations.
• Working knowledge of Linux, Perforce, and Linear Algebra.
• VFX production experience or interest in creating VR & MR experiences.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, financial, and other corporate benefits.
• Potential for bonuses and long-term incentive units.
• Opportunity to work at the forefront of visual effects, VR, AR, and Immersive Cinema.
• Collaborative environment dedicated to high-end storytelling and technical innovation.