Lead Traversal Animator

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Traversal Animation Lead to guide and inspire a team of animators in delivering top-tier traversal animations that meet the highest quality standards set by the Animation Director. In this role, you will work closely with the Game Director, as well as the design and engineering teams, to ensure animations are both technically sound and creatively aligned with the game’s artistic and narrative vision. At Insomniac Games, we're passionate about crafting exceptional animations for AAA games and delivering outstanding new player experiences while fostering well-being!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following: 

• Collaborate with the Animation Director to establish an animation style and guide the team in implementing this style effectively, ensuring alignment with the overall tone and vision of the assigned project.
• Provides constructive feedback and mentorship to each individual animator on team/pod to support continuous development of their animation, cinematography, layout, and engine skills.
• Conducts weekly animation reviews with the Animation Director to provide actionable feedback for animators to ensure accurate implementation and uphold high quality standards.
• Manages up to 4 direct reports, which includes regular 1 on 1s, constructing performance reviews, goals, and managing their career growth and well-being.
• Prepares and directs mocap shoots that promote efficient implementation workflows and enhance overall visual quality.
• Collaborates with the Animation Director and Project Management to develop and maintain an animation schedule that aligns with overall production timelines.
• Evaluates the animation team’s Jira queues in consultation with project managers.
• You may lead a cross-departmental pod focused on delivering traversal-related tasks for key project milestones and represent the pod’s animation team in relevant inter- and intra-departmental meetings.
• Contributes to a department wide effort to identify assets required for upcoming assignments.
• Reviews animation and run levels in game to check on correct implementation.
• Stay informed of all project-specific updates and can answer any necessary questions from animators.
• Contributes with direct animation as needed (but only up to 50% of the time), demonstrating hands-on leadership and technical proficiency.
• Maintains a strong understanding of Character Set up process and highly proficient with skeletons, IK, FK, facial animation system, constraints and other systems used for character animation.
• Continuously explores and introduces the latest advancements in animation technology, fostering a culture of innovation and learning within the team.
• Ensures a professional and respectful work environment by addressing concerns swiftly and fostering a culture of respect and safety.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include maintaining up to 4 direct reports, interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Computer Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of Maya, including FK and IK techniques and basic rigging methodologies.
•  Proficiency with office programs and production tracking programs. 
• Proficiency with non-linear editing programs, such as Premiere, as well as working with sound and music.
• Ability to learn and apply new software packages.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite. 

Other Skills: Ability to articulate one’s thought and ideas effectively through written or verbal means. Ability to work well as part of a large team. Ability to communicate effectively with other project leads. Open and supportive attitude with members of animation department.