Head of Rigging

We are Plastic Wax - an independent and award-winning animation studio specializing in pre-rendered and in-engine animation, visual effects, motion capture, compositing, and a turnkey variety of creative services. For nearly 30 years our talented crew have worked with some of the world's most beloved properties, including Mortal Kombat, Game of Thrones, Epic Mickey, Subnautica, and many more.

We are looking for our next Head of Rigging to lead and support our team.

About the Role

The Head of Rigging is responsible for the direction and management of their department. They will oversee the scheduling, workflow, and overall creative success of the Rigging Department. The Head of Rigging will bring their expertise to the artistic, technical and team management aspects for their department.

While we are looking for an individual who has had experience in a leadership role, we will also consider Senior Riggers who can demonstrate they are ready to take on the responsibilities.

Responsibilities

The Rigging HOD’s duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• In conjunction with Project briefs and the Director’s vision, advise and participate in breaking down and bidding Riggings work
• Partner with Production Management to ensure department resources are balanced across all projects
• Monitor workload and assignments across the Rigging team, balancing the volume of work with Rigging TDs’ strengths to provide the Rigging and stakeholders with the best possible result
• Coordinate with the production team to manage Rigging TDs' and ensure consistent high quality of work from the department
• Suggest efficient techniques to keep bids competitive and minimize unnecessary production needs and labor
• Work on tools and rigging personally, while maintaining sufficient bandwidth for the other duties of the Head of Rigging role
• Cultivate a team-oriented approach across the department and company as a whole
• Represent the Rigging Department to studio and executive management
• In collaboration with HR and/or studio management, participate in hiring, training and performance reviews
• Develop and manage the department’s work processes including methodology and tools
• Provide post-mortem reports after each project's completion
• Attend and actively participate in Stand-Up meetings and Daily Review sessions
• Communicate a consistent and compelling picture of the company’s position as a world-class CG studio to clients, staff and when representing the company at events
• Proactive in driving the use and improvement of Shotgun across the floor
• Follow Plastic Wax Workplace Guidelines
• Work collaboratively with team members
• Abide by Plastic Wax policies and procedures including Workplace Health & Safety
• Any other duties as requested by your manager

Required Experience and Skills

• 8yrs+ experience working on feature films, episodic tv shows and/or AAA+ game cinematics
• Experience and understanding with character rigging/skinning (body and facial)
• Hands on Experience with motion capture and rigging for and inside Unreal Engine
• Skilled in one or more types of 3D animation software (Maya & Motion Builder preferred)
• Skilled in MEL and/or Python as well as Shotgrid
• An understanding of animation techniques
• Ability to lead a team
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, creativity and organizational skills
• Ability to take direction and work well within a team focused environment
• Ability to evaluate time requirements
• Positive, proactive and excellent communication skills
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Ability to work cross departmentally and effectively communicate to support systems/feature development
• Ability to work well under pressure and deadlines

Benefits

• Competitive salary package
• Stylish office in Rhodes with hybrid work approach
• Remote work available within Oceania
• Permanent employment opportunities for the right candidate
• Competitive salary or day rates
• Supportive work environment with an emphasis on career progression
• In-house events
• Work on world renowned IPs
• Immediate start available

If you meet the above qualifications and are interested in being considered for this role, please select the Easy Apply button.

Please ensure your portfolio and/or showreel is correctly linked on your resume - otherwise your submission may not be considered.