Lead Groom Artist - Expression of Interest at The Walt Disney Company

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Visual Effects, Entertainment, FilmIndustries

Requirements

5+ years of proven experience within a high-end VFX facility
Good knowledge and proven experience of developing tool sets, templates and defining workflows
Experience leading and mentoring other artists
Demo reel and portfolio illustrating knowledge and experience in high end VFX
Attention to detail
Proven Groom skills within a high-end VFX production environment
Good creative and critical eye for driving the look and feel of a groom, especially when direction is unclear; takes ownership in interpreting others' visions
Ability to learn quickly and assimilate new information
Good interpersonal skills
Expert in Houdini

Responsibilities

Creation of fur/feather/hair grooms for characters, creatures and props using a mix of off the shelf and ILM proprietary tools
Support other artists when needed to ensure they meet all show requirements
Collaborate with Creature TDs to determine requirements and solutions for dynamics
Work closely with additional departments (Modeling, Lookdev, Textures, Production) for technical, aesthetic, and schedule needs
Proactively drive the production schedule, ensuring work is well understood, bids are appropriate, and assets are delivered efficiently
Participate as a team member in achieving aesthetic solutions; provide feedback in dailies
Train and mentor new artists; provide technical assistance to show supervisors before and during production
Maintain or exceed consistent productivity while meeting deadlines and producing high quality work
Independently and alongside the local Groom HOD, drive development of the global Groom teams, technology, workflows, and talent
Proactively bring new ideas and solutions to improve department quality and efficiency

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

GroomingFurFeatherHairDynamicsCreature PipelineVFXModelingLookdevTexturingMentoring

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this a full-time position?

Yes, this is a full-time employment opportunity.

What is the work arrangement for this role?

This role is hybrid, requiring 2-3 days onsite at a company-designated location and occasional work from home.

What experience and skills are required for the Lead Groom Artist role?

Candidates need 5+ years of proven experience in a high-end VFX facility, proven Groom skills in high-end VFX production, experience leading and mentoring artists, and knowledge of developing tool sets, templates, and workflows. A demo reel and portfolio illustrating high-end VFX knowledge, attention to detail, and a creative eye for grooms are also required.

What is the team structure like for the Groom Artist role?

The Groom Artist Team works alongside the Digital Model Shop and Creature Teams, collaborating with Creature TDs, Modeling, Lookdev, Textures, and Production departments. The Lead role involves working with the local Groom HOD and global Groom teams.

How can I apply for this Lead Groom Artist position?

This is an expression of interest posting, not an open role; submit your resume for future consideration, and you may be contacted by a recruiter if it opens. Include a demo reel and portfolio showcasing high-end VFX groom experience to stand out.