Supervising Animator

Job Description

The Supervising Animator is responsible for producing high-level custom animations and supervising the work of others. This role works directly with Animation Management to oversee in-person and remote staff, grow their skills, and lead animation workflows of ESPN Creative Studio animation projects. This role requires excellent collaboration and communication skills along with the ability to lead a diversity of teams and assignments. Must be able to manage, direct and develop other creatives, and provide regular, actionable feedback. Must be capable of performing hero-level animation and troubleshooting duties. Must be able to work and coach others in a variety of animation styles and be highly skilled in both 2D/3D animation. This role regularly mentors and directly supervises less experienced animators and contributes regularly to the creation of innovative animation packages and the evolution of animation team workflows. Must be proactive, have excellent communication and troubleshooting skills. This is a hands-on position requiring expert knowledge of Cinema 4D, After Effects, Photoshop, and Illustrator.

Responsibilities:
• Collaborate with Animation Mgmt. to oversee and evolve all aspects of the team
• Directly supervise animators, actively mentor & motivate to expand team versatility
• Create high-level animations independently and by leading the work of others
• Provide software / technical / workflow leadership across animation projects
• Streamline projects for efficient versioning and seasonal updates
• Drive solutions to balance client expectations with workflow, timeframe realities
• Expert in Cinema 4D, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator
• Advanced knowledge of Octane, Redshift
• Translate assignment details and creative direction into visually compelling solutions
• Lead monthly animation team creative reviews and production check-ins
• Must have excellent organization, communication skills and attention to detail
• Must be highly motivated, thrive under pressure, and prioritize strategically
• Must have excellent organization, communication skills and attention to detail
• Maintain high-level output, accuracy and efficiency

Basic Qualifications:
• Minimum 7 years of experience in Animation/Motion Graphics
• Able to work non-standard hours (nights / weekends / holidays)
• Portfolio/demo reel link required with application

Preferred Qualifications:
• Prior experience leading workflows and creatives
• Experience in Unreal, Substance, ZBrush, Houdini, Maya, Blender
• Expertise in C4D VFX techniques (dynamics, pyro, UV's)
• Character animation experience (C4D / Maya / Reallusion iClone)
• Character design / ZBrush sculpting experience
• Character Rigging / Weighting experience in C4D or other
• Expertise in scripting and expressions
• Passion for sports and familiarity with ESPN animation packages
• Experience with ESPN Tools

Required Education:
• High School Diploma or Equivalent

Preferred Education:
• Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Additional Information:
• This is an onsite position (Bristol, CT)

#ESPNMedia

About ESPN:

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney's stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with ESPN Productions, Inc, which is part of a business we call ESPN.

ESPN Productions, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-ne63y3-18-97-14-88-42 in your application.