Supervising Animator

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)

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