Technical Director (Character)

TL;DR

Technical Director (Character): Supporting and enhancing the character build pipeline for high-quality animation assets with an accent on modeling, grooming, and surfacing workflows. Focus on building technical solutions, automating manual processes, and ensuring efficient asset rendering through tools like Houdini, Maya, and USD.

Location: Onsite in London

Company

A fast-growing game development studio focused on delivering world-class animation content.

What you will do

• Configure and maintain the core character asset pipeline for loading and publishing.
• Create sanity checks and best practices to ensure high-quality asset output.
• Advise the team on creating assets that render efficiently.
• Collaborate with leadership to automate manual steps and reduce workflow friction.
• Represent the character team in cross-departmental technical discussions.
• Provide technical support and guidance to artists regarding workflows.

Requirements

• Deep understanding of feature animation character-build workflows (model, groom, texturing, lookdev).
• Expertise in core asset creation tools including Houdini, Maya, and Blender.
• Proficiency in USD, specifically regarding character variants and shading.
• Strong Python and VEX skills for tool and HDA development.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Experience working with both internal teams and external vendors.

Nice to have

• Background in lookdev or rigging.
• Experience with AYON, Renderman, Shading, C++, or AI.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to have a genuine impact on the final product.
• Work within a fast-growing, creative environment.
• Focus on continuous improvement and technical innovation.
• Collaborative team culture centered on storytelling and animation.