MPC - Lead Artist - Animation

Animator is needed in Toronto, Canada.

Client: MPC

Location: Toronto, ON, Canada

Contract: Full-time, Contractor, Full-time

Job Description

MPC (Moving Picture Company) is a global VFX studio with extensive storytelling experience in the feature film and episodic industries, known for award-winning projects like The Lion King, 1917, The Mandalorian, and Wandavision. We are seeking a Lead Artist - Animation responsible for creating high-quality animations for various visual effects projects. The Lead Artist will collaborate closely with Animation Supervisors to deliver convincing performances and manage challenging technical shots.

Key Responsibilities

• Follow the production schedule and complete tasks as delegated by the Animation Supervisor.
• Attend Dailies sessions to present work and take notes.
• Thoroughly check the quality of work before passing it downstream.
• Identify and communicate any setbacks that may impact deadlines.
• Propose solutions to challenging shots.
• Create Master Scenes.
• Help manage show setup, draft documentation on challenges, and produce tutorials.
• Find references and develop animation tests to set standards and workflows.
• Evaluate new rigs and assist in rigging development.
• Work with the Head of Department and Animation Technical Director to define pipeline requirements.
• Liaise with leads in other departments about show elements.
• Perform Animation Supervisor tasks when required.
• Assist team management to ensure timely delivery of the show.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Line Manager or Key Business Relationships.

Measures Of Success

Consistently meet task, shot, sequence, and project deadlines while maintaining high standards of visual quality and technical execution. Demonstrate alignment with company values such as creativity, teamwork, innovation, and commitment to excellence.

Qualifications

Technical & Soft Skills:

• Previous experience in a VFX environment - Required.
• Advanced knowledge of physics, performance, and anatomy - Required.
• Experience using Motion Capture and Facial Capture - Preferred.
• Proficient in cinema language and storytelling - Required.
• Able to create Previs - Preferred.
• Experience with Motion Builder - Preferred.
• Understanding all stages of project delivery - Preferred.
• Strong communication skills - Required.
• Team player - Required.
• Problem-solving ability - Required.
• Ability to manage complexity and change - Required.

Preferred Software Knowledge:

• Maya - Advanced/Expert
• Linux-based environment - Proficient
• Python code MEL - Proficient