Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Maya Animators, March Entertainment, Toronto



Position: Maya Animator

March Entertainment is looking to hire several experienced Maya animators for an exciting new Choose your Own Adventure movie starting in Toronto in April, 2009.

Requirements:

- A demo reel showcasing feature quality animation work
- 3D series or feature experience a must
- Ability to meet deadlines and work within a team
- Degree or certificate in classical animation, film or related field or equivalent production experience
- MUST be an Ontario resident as of Dec. 31, 2008 and Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada.

Please include the following with your application:
- A résumé
- A cover letter describing your skills and the position that you are applying for.
- Links to samples of animation or demo reel

Please email your CV and examples of your work to: resumes@marchentertainment.com

Or send to:

March Entertainment
Attn: Recruiting
40 Larch St, Suite 300
Sudbury, Ontario
P3E 3V7

We thank you for your interest in this position, but due to a high volume of applications only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Check out March Entertainment at: http://www.marchentertainment.com

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

More Starz jobs, Toronto


Position Description:
Layout Finaler
Position Description and Requirements:

The Layout Finaler prepares final files for lighting/rendering and compositing. This includes all set dressing elements, various elements and camera tweaking.
Skill set Overview
Strong skills in layout (planning and asset management), animation & cinematography are required.
Excellent communication skills, written and oral
Basic understanding of modeling and lighting
Ability to keep detailed notes and track information in data base
Excellent ability to manage assets within the files
Solid Maya Software experience:
Able to use the Maya tools fluidly
Proprietary tools will be taught
Solid understanding of production priorities
Ability to problem solve and share solutions
Willingness to accept direction and changes from Supervising Animators

Position Description: Technical Surfacing Artist
For: Gnomeo and Juliet
Reports to: Head of Surfacing

Position Description and Requirements:

Helps establish and/or guide the look and qualities of characters, props and environments for an animated film with direction from the VFX Supervisor, Art Director and Surfacing Supervisor.
Ensures that Surfacing files are complete and ready for lighting
Spot and flag creative and technical issues as they arise – fix them where possible or work closely with TDs to adjust. Assist other surfacing artists with technical demands as required
Communicate with other departments to convey Surfacing needs (primarily Modeling) and provide for other departments needs (primarily Lighting).
Maintains awareness of the broader show needs as they relate to the Surfacing Department (schedule, complexity of setups, shader issues, technical aspects etc.)

Requirements:

Minimum 3 years of high-end production experience on feature films
Strong painting skills and artistic eye for detail combined with a strong understanding of the technical side
Detail oriented and the ability to understand the complexity of a 3D pipeline and work closely with TDs
Familiarity with mental ray as a renderer
Familiarity with Polygonal texturing using image maps
Strong uv-ing skills is a must
Familiarity with construction of shaders and utilities
Experience with hair, fur, cloth systems
Ability to debug complex shader networks
Strong photoshop knowledge
Experience with mudbox or zbrush
Some experience with mel scripting or python scripting would be an asset – minimum requirement is to be able to read scripts and debug with TDs assistance
Openness to existing workflows
Ability to solve problems independently
Takes initiative and enjoys learning from and teaching others
Ability to work well in a team setting, guide/mentor others as needed




About the Film
Gnomeo and Juliet -- distributed by Miramax Films -- is an animated picture directed by Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2), produced by Baker Bloodworth, David Furnish, Steve Hamilton-Shaw and with songs by Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Now in production.

If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a resume indicating which position you are applying for to:
sat.jobs@starz.com

We thank everyone for their interest in advance, but given the high volume of response we will be unable to reply to everyone in person. No phone calls please.
About Starz Animation, Toronto
Starz Animation, Toronto, one of Canada’s leading 3D animation studio for breakthrough digital production. Starz Animation, Toronto has gained a reputation for its commitment to excellence in high-end digital animation. By utilizing proprietary software technology, Starz Animation, Toronto, continues to advance its character animation and continually raises the bar in CGI animation production by offering the most high-end technology and visual tools available including; Maya, Inferno, Fusion, Mental Ray, Syflex, Real Flow, and Qube on a variety of platforms. Our artists’ creative skills are showcased in an ever-expanding body of work in feature films, direct-to-video productions, prime time and children’s CG animated series.
As part of Starz Media, Starz Animation, Toronto, has partners in development, production, and distribution of entertainment: Starz Home Entertainment/Anchor Bay, Starz/Encore, Film Roman, Manga and Vongo. As such, Starz Animation, Toronto, has the capability to distribute its programming to consumers however and wherever they want to watch: in theatres, on DVDs, via cable or satellite, on broadcast stations and over the internet in both the domestic and international markets.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Multiple Positions, Starz Animation, Toronto


Starz Animation, Toronto, one of Canada’s largest 3D Animation Studios, is currently in production on Miramax Film’s major animation movie, “Gnomeo and Juliet”. Directed by Kelly Asbury and with music and lyrics by legendary songwriting team ELTON JOHN & BERNIE TAUPIN, this animated feature will be released in 2011.

Position Description: Key Lighter/Compositor
For: Gnomeo and Juliet
Reports to Head of Lighting & Compositing
Job Duties:
Help maintain lighting pipeline/work flow as dictated by project
Ensure work is of the highest possible quality
Understand how to properly economize renders while still achieving required quality
Work closely with the artistic leads to ensure creative direction is achieved
Be able to work with lighting artists to provide guidance and assist in problem solving
Responsible for lighting key shots

Experience Required:
Feature Film experience required
Thorough knowledge of Maya and Mental Ray
Advanced understanding of lighting and advanced shading networks
Good balance between artistic and technical skills
Advanced knowledge of Fusion or similar node based compositing package
Be able to properly assess appropriate balance of lighting and compositing for a given shot
Python & UNIX knowledge a plus
Knowledge of modeling, animation, FX and surfacing a plus

Core Competencies:
Able to communication effectively to people across all disciplines, and with various levels of experience
Must be detail oriented and organized, possess strong communication skills, and be able to handle a variety of tasks in an efficient manner.
Must possess exceptional problem solving skills.
Works in a collaborative manner and follow direction as required
Must be a team player and perform well under tight deadlines



Position Description: Software Developer
Reports to Head of Software Development

Position Description and Requirements:

Computer Science, Engineering degree
Strong interest and experience in computer graphics and animation is required
Knowledge of CG technologies and applications (including Maya, OpenGL, Mental ray and/or Renderman) required
3+ years experience programming in C++ and Python
Software engineering knowledge, including UML, design patterns, unit-testing
Experience as a user and as a developer on Linux and Windows platforms
Knowledge of GUI tool-kits, especially wxPython, is a strong asset
Knowledge of network/web applications and RDBMSs is a plus
Strong communication and teamwork skills


Position Description: Layout Finaler
Position Description and Requirements:

The Layout Finaler prepares final files for lighting/rendering and compositing. This includes all set dressing elements, various elements and camera tweaking.

Skill set Overview
Strong skills in layout (planning and asset management), animation & cinematography are required.
Excellent communication skills, written and oral
Basic understanding of modeling and lighting
Ability to keep detailed notes and track information in data base
Excellent ability to manage assets within the files
Solid Maya Software experience:
Able to use the Maya tools fluidly
Proprietary tools will be taught
Solid understanding of production priorities
Ability to problem solve and share solutions
Willingness to accept direction and changes from Supervising Animators

About the Film
Gnomeo and Juliet -- distributed by Miramax Films -- is an animated picture directed by Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2), produced by Baker Bloodworth, David Furnish, Steve Hamilton-Shaw and with songs by Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Now in production.

If you are interested in applying for these positions, please submit a resume indicating which position you are applying for in the subject line to:
sat.jobs@starz.com
We thank everyone for their interest in advance, but given the high volume of response we will be unable to reply to everyone in person.

About Starz Animation, Toronto
Starz Animation, Toronto, one of Canada’s leading 3D animation studio for breakthrough digital production. Starz Animation, Toronto has gained a reputation for its commitment to excellence in high-end digital animation. By utilizing proprietary software technology, Starz Animation, Toronto, continues to advance its character animation and continually raises the bar in CGI animation production by offering the most high-end technology and visual tools available including; Maya, Inferno, Fusion, Mental Ray, Syflex, Real Flow, and Qube on a variety of platforms. Our artists’ creative skills are showcased in an ever-expanding body of work in feature films, direct-to-video productions, prime time and children’s CG animated series.
As part of Starz Media, Starz Animation, Toronto, has partners in development, production, and distribution of entertainment: Starz Home Entertainment/Anchor Bay, Starz/Encore, Film Roman, Manga and Vongo. As such, Starz Animation, Toronto, has the capability to distribute its programming to consumers however and wherever they want to watch: in theatres, on DVDs, via cable or satellite, on broadcast stations and over the internet in both the domestic and international markets.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Gameplay Animator, Blue Castle Games, Burnaby BC


Apply for this job:

More information about this job:

OVERVIEW:


It's getting around - there is something amazing being built here at Blue Castle behind locked doors and as a result, we are growing our gameplay animation team.

You love to work in a team environment while being partnered with smart engineers and designers who are collectively working together to create fantastic in-game mocap and keyframed animations for our AAA open world action project.



RESPONSIBILITIES:

As a Gameplay Animator, you will work alongside the existing gameplay team to design, mocap, animate and tune motion for a wide variety our games characters. You will work with the team to create characters and move sets, teaming up with an engineer to implement these characters while continuing to learn and refine the fine points of gameplay animation.



REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must have shipped and been credited as a Gameplay Animator on a minimum of one game title on the Xbox 360 and PS3 platforms
  • A demo reel that demonstrates a solid understanding of animation theory and principles - see requirements below.
  • Excellent personal project and task management skills
  • Forward thinking Animation professional who researches new industry developments and art techniques
  • Clear communicator who is open to feedback and constructive evaluation
  • Experience with both Maya and Motion Builder with a proven ability to learn new tools and pipelines quickly.
  • Experience with high end character acting and facial acting animation ability
  • Experience with motion capture

To apply for this position, please click the "Apply to this job online" button at the top of this page.

We thank all applicants for applying, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

DEMO REEL REQUIRED: Which must include a detailed breakdown your responsibilities and involvement of each project. Your samples need to demonstrate believable and exaggerated human character animation work. Feel free to also include any personal work you have done.

Online reels are preferred; however, CD or DVD formatted reels can be forwarded to: Blue Castle Games, Inc. - #300 - 4401 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5C 6G9.

BLUE CASTLE GAMES (www.bluecastlegames.com) is a full-service, multi-project and multi-platform 3rd party developer located in Vancouver, Canada. The studio was formed in 2005, fulfilling the desire to start a company where creativity, experience and hard work come together to create outstanding games. Today Blue Castle Games is a 170-person studio and in its short tenure, has developed and shipped The BIGS (published by 2K Sports in June 2007) on PS3, 360, PS2, PSP and Wii and MLB Front Office Manager (published by 2K Sports in January 2009) on PS3, 360 and PC. Currently in development and just announced is our AAA Action project, Dead Rising 2, which will be published by Capcom and released on multiple platforms. We are also well underway on another soon-to-be-announced Sports title which will be released on five platforms - PS3, 360, PS2, PSP and Wii.


3D Modeling Animation Art and Design Instructor, Vancouver College of Art and Design, Vancouver BC

Vancouver College of Art and Design

3D Modeling Animation Art & Design Instructor

Job Description:

Reporting to the Campus Director, Instructors are accountable for the following:

  • Lesson Preparation, presentation, supervision, and evaluation.
  • Instructional delivery consistent with the learning objective specified in course outline.
  • Assisting the Campus Director in managing student success.
  • Explaining the course outline and expectations to students.
  • Participating in the development and evalution of curriculum and instructional materials, as required.
  • Attending Instructors meetings, as required
  • Possessing a clear understanding of, and upholding, the Company's policies and procedures relating to students and instructors.
  • Cooperating with the administration staff in the performance of their duties.
  • Completeing required forms and records and submitting them to administration staff in a timely manner.
  • Maintaining relevant industry skills and knowledge.

    Education Requirements:

  • Degree, diploma or certification from a recognized college or university, company or institution relating to the area of instruction.

    Experience Requirements:

  • Two or more years experience in a related field.
  • Instructional experience and/or possession of instructors certificate preferred

    Application Instructions: Please apply at jobopp@eminata.com quote job#1002VCADI in the subject line of email

  • Technologist - Animation Specialist, Cambrian College, Sudbury, ON


    Technologist – Animation Specialist –
    (Two-year term appointment)

    Computer Services

    Cambrian College's Computer Services department has an immediate requirement for an IT Technologist specializing in animation technologies on a two-year term appointment basis.

    Reporting to the Manager, Computer Operations, the successful applicant will provide support for the digital technologies of the new Animation program, which starts in September 2009.

    The Technologist will provide a high level of technical advice, guidance and support for the Animation program environment; will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of the equipment and software; will provide direct support for professors and students; will assist in coordinating part-time staff and students supporting the environment; and will participate in special project activities.

    The successful applicant must have the following:

    • a three-year diploma or degree in Computer technology, animation systems engineering, or a related field
    • a minimum of five years experience with the specialized hardware and software used in 2-D and 3-D animation production
    • experience in the operation, use, installation and maintenance of PC-based microcomputer hardware and related equipment
    • experience with servers and workstations in a large enterprise server/workstation environment
    • experience in the use, installation, operation and maintenance of the Windows operating system and other Windows software used by the College
    • experience in centralized administration of laptops and workstations, including systems to distribute software patches, security updates, virus protection, scripted software fixes, and other centralized software updates
    • experience in enterprise imaging and other software distribution methodologies
    • demonstrated high-level analytical and troubleshooting skills
    • project management experience
    • excellent interpersonal, communication and time management skills
    • demonstrated ability to work independently with very little supervision

    The following will be considered assets:

    • A+ Certification, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, ITIL and other technology-related training
    • experience in the use, installation, operation and maintenance of the Apple operating system and other Apple software
    • experience in an educational environment

    All candidates selected for an interview will be required to undergo appropriate testing.

    The wage rate for this 37.5-hour per week, two-year term appointment based at the Barrydowne Campus is $28.81 per hour.

    Interested individuals may apply with a covering letter, quoting the competition number, and a résumé, detailing education and experience, to:

    Human Resources Department
    Cambrian College of Applied Arts and Technology
    1400 Barrydowne Road, Sudbury, Ontario, P3A 3V8
    Email: humanresources@cambriancollege.ca
    Fax: 705-524-1160

    Closing Date: Friday, March 13, 2009, at 4 p.m.

    While all responses are appreciated, only those applicants who will be invited for an interview will be contacted.

    Committed to education and employment equity. Applications from qualified members
    of designated groups are encouraged

    Thursday, February 19, 2009

    Senior Lighter/Compositor, Starz Animation, Toronto


    Starz Animation, Toronto, one of Canada’s largest 3D Animation Studios, is currently in production on Miramax Film’s major animation movie, “Gnomeo and Juliet”. Directed by Kelly Asbury and with music and lyrics by legendary songwriting team ELTON JOHN & BERNIE TAUPIN, this animated feature will be released in 2011.

    Position Description: Senior Lighter/Compositor
    For: Gnomeo and Juliet
    Reports to Head of Lighting & Compositing
    Job Duties:
    Help maintain lighting pipeline/work flow as dictated by project
    Ensure work is of the highest possible quality
    Understand how to properly economize renders while still achieving required quality
    Work closely with the artistic leads to ensure creative direction is achieved
    Be able to work with lighting artists to provide guidance and assist in problem solving
    Experience Required:

    Feature Film experience required
    Thorough knowledge of Maya and Mental Ray
    Advanced understanding of lighting and advanced shading networks
    Good balance between artistic and technical skills
    Advanced knowledge of Fusion or similar node based compositing package
    Be able to properly assess appropriate balance of lighting and compositing for a given shot
    Python & UNIX knowledge a plus
    Knowledge of modeling, animation, FX and surfacing a plus

    Core Competencies:
    Able to communication effectively to people across all disciplines, and with various levels of experience
    Must be detail oriented and organized, possess strong communication skills, and be able to handle a variety of tasks in an efficient manner.
    Must possess exceptional problem solving skills.
    Works in a collaborative manner and follow direction as required.
    Must be a team player and perform well under tight deadlines

    About the Film
    Gnomeo and Juliet -- distributed by Miramax Films -- is an animated picture directed by Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2), produced by Baker Bloodworth, David Furnish, Steve Hamilton-Shaw and with songs by Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Now in production.

    If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a resume indicating which position you are applying for in the subject line to:
    sat.jobs@starz.com
    We thank everyone for their interest in advance, but given the high volume of response we will be unable to reply to everyone in person.

    About Starz Animation, Toronto
    Starz Animation, Toronto, one of Canada’s leading 3D animation studio for breakthrough digital production. Starz Animation, Toronto has gained a reputation for its commitment to excellence in high-end digital animation. By utilizing proprietary software technology, Starz Animation, Toronto, continues to advance its character animation and continually raises the bar in CGI animation production by offering the most high-end technology and visual tools available including; Maya, Inferno, Fusion, Mental Ray, Syflex, Real Flow, and Qube on a variety of platforms. Our artists’ creative skills are showcased in an ever-expanding body of work in feature films, direct-to-video productions, prime time and children’s CG animated series.
    As part of Starz Media, Starz Animation, Toronto, has partners in development, production, and distribution of entertainment: Starz Home Entertainment/Anchor Bay, Starz/Encore, Film Roman, Manga and Vongo. As such, Starz Animation, Toronto, has the capability to distribute its programming to consumers however and wherever they want to watch: in theatres, on DVDs, via cable or satellite, on broadcast stations and over the internet in both the domestic and international markets.