3D Animation Lead

The 3D Animation Lead role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as the main contact between production and supervisors, and ensuring smooth communication and workflow. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical knowledge of animation tools (especially Maya), and the ability to solve creative and technical challenges while meeting deadlines. The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production needs to maintain high-quality animation output.

About the role

• 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 deputise 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
• May be required to work with HOD and supervisors on bids when requested
• 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
• Work with the technical animators to ensure that show wikis are kept up to date

About you

• 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 modelling, rigging and Mel/Python scripting
• Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skills