Technical Director, Rigging

Description

Job Description
A Rigging Technical Director is responsible for working with Art Designers and Animators to realize a character in digital form. This includes both shaping the character's 3D geometry and the delivery of a well-designed set of animation controls for manipulating that geometry. The three main disciplines are modeling, rigging and rig building.

An applicant for a rig position is expected to be very strong in at least 2 of these areas.  If you have strong artistic skills your two areas of focus might be modeling and rigging. If you are a CG grad you might be strong in rig construction as you can program and have math skills and you might have a good eye for modeling and motion.

Modeling covers the spectrum of being able to build humans, robots, cars or toys.

Task Description:

• Using modeling software to sculpt and refine a neutral 3D model to fit the aesthetic needs of Character Designers.
• Designing and maintaining a modeling topology conducive to the storyboarded range of deformations.

Reel guidelines
On a reel we look for examples of digital sculpting of organic forms such as faces or bodies as well as a variety of works and styles. The best presentations include a turntable showing the final result and a turntable with the mesh so we can evaluate topology. Modeling is an  artistic endeavor so showing examples of drawings or clay sculpts will help. Showing cloth modeling and/or hair modeling will also strengthen a reel.

Rigging is the process of giving a character controls for movement, therein "articulating" its ranges of motion. We like to think of it as bringing the character to life.

Task Description:

• Working closely with Animators to provide and refine an articulation of the full range of expressions and body movement needed to support a character's acting range in the film. A truth to materials/anatomy and animation principles is emphasized, as is patience and a willingness to experiment!
• Creative use of deformers to achieve a specific deformation called for by Animation with a concise set of animation controls.

Reel Guidelines
What we look for in a reel is examples of rigging that support the type of character that is being attempted. A realistic character will have be true to the materials it is made out of. A cartoony character might have Tex Avery touches. Since rigging serves animation showing examples of animation will strengthen the reel.

Rig building is the process of building and supporting rigs that a group of riggers can apply to a set of characters.

Task Description:

• Designing and maintaining Master Rigs that can be re-used as a basis for articulating similar characters, or applying existing Rigs to newly created character sculpts.
• Writing scripts to facilitate workflow improvements in Python or MEL, or working with a programmer to enable them to make such improvements effectively.
• Brainstorming new techniques and ideas for user interfaces, deformation tools, and character specific rigging solutions.
• Troubleshooting technical issues inherent in maintaining a clean file structure and pipelines for both in-house and 3rd party software.
• Having proficiency in a programming language and math is important.

Reel Guidelines
What we look for in reels are systems that can be used to make faces or bodies. Showing how the controls work and the interface for the
animators is important.  Descriptive text for the technical designs/tools shown on the reel should be provided on a separate breakdown sheet included with your reel/resume.

Submission Process

• Apply on Pixar's website with your resume, demo reel breakdown and cover letter.
• Please ensure that you have agreed to the Terms at the end of the on-line application.  You will not be able to continue without this affirmation.  By agreeing, you are agreeing to the terms of the Submission Release.
• A demo reel showing representative work is an important part of your application.
• Include a link to your demo reel in the space provided in the "Personal Information" section of the application

Pixar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.