Lead TD Animation Asterix

For the full CGI animation feature Asterix, Grid is looking for a Lead TD Animation.
DESCRIPTION
The Lead TD provides technical direction in the execution of specific animation 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 on their budget's status at all further production meetings. The Lead TD takes part in the interviews for recruiting key members of the crew.
During production you develop and refine all technical aspects of the animation production pipeline. This involves developing and supporting procedures and tools to allow a streamlined and efficient animation pipeline consisting of FX animation, dynamics simulation, particle and fluid systems, character rigging, character animation, layout, general shot and asset management, etc. You have a clear vision on 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
• 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.
• Plan facility resources with the CG supervisor and line producer to create an effective approach to the project within the budget.
• Create documentation and technical guides to communicate workflow (animation, lighting, rendering, etc…) and efficiency insight as well as artistic expertise to the supervisors and individual artists.
• Ensure the whole team can contribute to the R&D projects and overall technical processes optimisation in the pipeline.
• Work together closely with the line producer and CG supervisor to ensure the schedule of work is on track.
• Responsible for mentoring digital artists on technical aspects and QC in all departments.
EMPLOYMENT
• This is a dedicated position starting now.
DESIRED SKILLS AND PLUSSES
• Experience as a lead TD within a production driven environment.
• Demonstrates expertise in the following areas: Mental Ray, Vray, Photoshop, Particle Systems, 2D and 3D compositing and general graphics techniques, 3D modelling, texturing, lighting, animation using Maya, 3DsMax. Working knowledge of Nuke/Digital Fusion or equivalent is a plus.
• Advanced experience with Houdini, Maya, XSI, 3DS Max or other software, and ability to write expressions/scripts/tools, development of shaders.
• Asset tracking experience is essential.
• Python and PyQt preferred, experience in MEL, C++ skills or other scripting languages also applicable.
• Familiar with Arnold, VRAY, Mental Ray or equivalent 3D lighting/render engines.
• Office, particularly Excel.
• Working knowledge with distributed revision control (Git or Mercurial)
QUALIFICATIONS
• 3-5 years experience as a Lead TD in the animation industry.
• Expertise with Maya and/or other high-end animation software is required.
• Position based in Belgium.
• Willing to work abroad for short periods.
TECHNICAL COMPETENCES
• Profound knowledge of all technical aspects of the animation process.
• System analysis.
• 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