Lead Animator

Animators produce the motion and performance of three-dimensional computer graphic characters, creatures, objects and crowds for high-end VFX films.

Lead Animators will be expected to carry out the following responsibilities:

Lead a team of animators on a show

Be the key contact for production and supervisor/s. Maintain clear communication, deal with creative challenges, provide solutions and adapt to changes in production & scheduling

Set and manage team assignments in collaboration with the animation supervisor

Have a good understanding of the animation tasks the team will be working on and the potential technical and creative challenges involved

Be prepared to deputy for the animation supervisor if necessary

Be aware of workflow templates, methodology and documentation; provide to the team where necessary

Work with technology teams to ensure that department tools are available for the team and properly set up for the show

Inform supervisors and Head of Department (HOD) of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows

Effectively manage team to avoid potential conflict or disagreement

Maintain positive relationships with all other departments and address any issues promptly

Attend dailies and present the work of your team; guide artists on how to present their work

Coach, share knowledge and assume some responsibility for the progression of more junior members of the team

Provide regular feedback to the team to ensure that work is always delivered on time to the highest possible standard

Previous experience mentoring or leading a team

Thorough knowledge of Maya

An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form

An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools

The proven ability to work under pressure

Being open to direction and able to embrace change

Attention to detail

Reliable, with good time keeping and the ability to meet deadlines

Excellent organisation, communication and interpersonal skills

A demonstrable commitment to creative collaboration within a team and with other departments

Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills

Working knowledge of modeling, rigging and Mel/Python scripting

Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skills

Previous experience working with motion capture data

Desirable Skills

Traditional animation and/or art background

Framestore is proud to employ extraordinary talent across all genders, races, nationalities, religions, ages, abilities and sexual preferences. We aim to encourage and support all of our current and future employees to achieve their potential. No job applicant will receive less favourable treatment on any basis when applying for a career with us.