Lead Modeler Animation Asterix

For the full CGI animation feature Asterix, Grid is looking for a Lead Modeler.
DESCRIPTION
The lead modeler provides modeling direction in the execution of specific projects. He or she may be assigned to a single project, or may oversee a number of projects with related technologies.
During pre-production, you work closely together with the CG supervisor, line producer, art director and other heads of department to prepare the production schedule and budget and keep them informed of their budget's status at all further production meetings. The Lead modeler takes part in the interviews for recruiting key members of the crew.
During production you develop and refine all technical and creative aspects of the modeling production pipeline. This involves developing and supporting procedures and tools to allow for a streamlined and efficient modeling pipeline consisting of classical modeling, sculpting and asset management, etc. You have a clear vision of how art and technology work in symbiosis. You are accountable for meeting schedules and show deadlines, participate in dailies and team reviews of work in progress.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• 3D Art, Modeling (Props, Characters and Environments), Modeling (High Poly), Modeling (Low Poly), Texturing
• Develop the tools on a technical / creative level for the collaboration between the CG supervisor and all individual artists, to ensure efficient allocation and support for in and out of office based artists/co-production companies.
• Work together with our Research and Development department to improve workflow and to ensure the whole modeling team can contribute to the R&D projects and overall optimization of the modeling pipeline.
• Work closely together with the Animation department
• Create documentation, and technical guides to communicate workflow and efficiency knowledge, as well as artistic expertise.
• Work closely together with the line producer and CG supervisor to define the modeling pipeline and to ensure the schedule of work is on track and within budget. This means planning facility resources with the CG supervisor and line producer to implement an effective approach to the project.
• Responsible for mentoring digital artists on all aspects and quality control in the modeling department.
EMPLOYMENT
• This is a dedicated position starting now.
DESIRED SKILLS AND PLUSSES
• Experience of working as a lead modeler within a production driven environment.
• Project management experience with Tactic, Farmers' Wife or similar essential.
• Understands human and animal anatomy.
• Understands mesh topology and edge loops as it translates to efficient modeling practices for full CG animation projects characters, and is experienced building detailed characters or sets/props off conceptual drawings or photographic reference.
• Ability to model photo-realistic or cartoony organic and inorganic forms.
• Expertise in UV coordinate space, texturing, and memory budgets keeping efficiency high.
• Ability to sculpt, model and texture map both hard surface and organic models, including cloth folds.
• Be committed to delivering 3D assets meeting demanding quality standards.
• Demonstrates expertise in the following areas: 3D modeling, 3D sculpting and texturing using Maya, 3DsMax, Houdini, Mudbox, Zbrush, Shave and a haircut, Photoshop or equivalent techniques and programs.
• Familiar with Arnold, VRAY, Mental Ray or equivalent 3D lighting/render engines.
• Working knowledge of Nuke/Digital Fusion or equivalent is a plus.
• Office, particularly Excel.
QUALIFICATIONS
• 3-5 years experience as a lead modeler in the animation industry.
• Linux and scripting ability in Python and PyQt preferred, experience in MEL; C++ skills or other scripting languages are also applicable.
• Expertise with Maya and/or other high-end modeling software is required.
• Position based in Belgium.
• Willing to work abroad for short periods.
TECHNICAL COMPETENCES
• Profound knowledge of all technical and creative aspects of the CG animation production process.
• Windows, Linux en Mac OS10.
• Knowledge of asset management software (preferably Tactic)
• Good knowledge of English (spoken and written), Dutch and French are plusses.
• MS Office / Open Office
PERSONALITY COMPETENCES
• Thrives in environment driven by continuous improvement & innovation.
• Thinks ahead about consequences to avoid problems, but solves problems with a smile if they occur.
• Motivated independently but understanding of a team culture.
• Naturally curious and likes to learn.
• Motivated by targets and result oriented, yet mature in dealing with direction changes in dynamic environment
• Persistent and assertive yet diplomatic.
• An organized thinker, accurate analyst and clear communicator.
• Enjoys working with artists in a creative environment.
• Understands how resource limitations can be managed to inspire delivery of creative quality.
• Interested in how teams can excel despite apparent separation by culture and geography.
CORE COMPETENCIES
• Creativity / Resourcefulness
• Flexibility / Adaptability
• Target oriented
• Team player
• Stress resistance