DNEG is currently looking for an Organic Modeller for a 4-month contract. Organic Modellers at DNEG use a wide range of reference materials and work very closely with texture artists, shader artists, and look development artists to create a range of digital assets of impeccable standard for world-class VFX films. You will also work closely with the rigging team to produce models which will support their workflow requirements to aid the smooth running of the production.

Key Responsibilities

• Create highly detailed and realistic organic 3D models using industry-standard software (e.g., Maya, ZBrush, etc.).
• Translate conceptual sketches, reference materials, and art direction into visually stunning and accurate 3D models.
• Ensure that models align with artistic and technical specifications, optimizing for performance and visual appeal.
• Collaborate closely with the Supervisors and other team members to iterate and refine models based on feedback and creative direction.
• Maintain a strong understanding of anatomy, form, and proportions to achieve authentic and aesthetically pleasing organic models.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and new techniques to continuously improve the quality of organic modeling within the team.
• Assist in the creation and implementation of textures, shaders, and materials to enhance the realism of the models.
• Contribute to brainstorming sessions and provide creative input to the overall design and development process.

About you 

• Meticulous with high attention to detail
• A team player and clear communicator, and a keenness for collaboration
• Adaptable and with a willingness to learn new skills and techniques – including proprietary software
• Resourceful
• Calm under pressure and committed to meet production deadlines 
• A positive, can-do attitude
• A passion for awesome creatures and real-world anatomy

Must Haves

• Strong spatial awareness and a good sense of form, scale, anatomy, likeness and proportion
• A very keen eye for detail
• A full working knowledge of modelling in any one or more of these packages: Maya, Houdini
• Ability to work with packages such as Mudbox or Z-brush
• Experience with Wrap4D
• Knowledge of Polygon and sub-division surface modelling
• Ability to deliver a "clean" model with tidy polygon/sub-d placement and good basic UV layout for texturing
• Understanding of when to model detail or have the detail added through the shading, by liaising with the shader writers and look development artists
• Experience shot modeling in a feature film environment
• Work closely with the riggers in the case of character models to ensure models work smoothly within the rigging pipeline.

Nice to Have

• A good knowledge of Linux
• Familiarity with Windows
• Experience in other areas of visual effects (TV, Games) will also be taken into account
• Knowledge of NURBS modelling
• At least 3 year of experience in films or high end commercials
• Experience in Marvellous Designer
• Ability to script in Python