Job DescriptionThe 3D Rigging Lead designs advanced rigs for characters, creatures, vehicles, and objects, while supervising a team of rigging artists within the project. They act as a technical and artistic reference, ensure the consistency of deliverables, and support the project's vision in close collaboration with supervision, production, and partner departments. Despite their supervisory responsibilities, they remain a hands-on expert, capable of delivering rigorous, autonomous, and exemplary work.
Key Responsibilities:Creative Quality- Support the artistic vision of the project by collaborating with CG and animation supervision.
- Propose simple, effective, and consistent rigging solutions aligned with the project's style.
- Adapt rigs to narrative intentions and the stylistic needs of animators.
- Ensure that delivered rigs allow for fluid, expressive, and credible animation.
Technical Quality- Create and maintain robust, scripted, and optimized rigs for the pipeline.
- Supervise the technical integration of rigs into the production chain.
- Quickly debug deformation or interaction issues.
- Document complex tools or setups to ensure continuity.
Leadership & Communications- Supervise project rigging artists by providing benevolent and structured support.
- Lead rigging dailies, offer constructive feedback, and value everyone's contributions.
- Work in conjunction with production to plan, track, and adjust workload.
- Quickly communicate technical or human issues to supervision and the department.
Department Support- Train artists on department tools, standards, and workflows.
- Produce clear references (templates, videos, guides) to support the team.
- Participate in updating internal practices and disseminating learnings.
- Identify training needs and contribute to their organization with the Department Head.
Optimization- Develop or adapt Python/PySide tools to automate repetitive tasks.
- Optimize rigs and scripts to ensure fluidity and efficiency in the pipeline.
- Monitor rig performance in production and propose improvements.
- Participate in the evolution of rigging templates and the integration of technological
Qualifications- Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Ringing Lead in the VFX industry in rigging.
- Proficiency in Maya software for production rigging.
- Proficiency in Python programming applied to rig tools or automation.
- Good knowledge of anatomy (bipeds, quadrupeds, muscles, facial expressions).
- Proficiency in blend shapes and deformation testing tools.
- Ability to manage priorities, work autonomously, and deliver on time.
- Asset: Proficiency or knowledge of C++ for creating nodes and/or deformers in Maya.
- Asset: Knowledge of PySide for UI creation.
- Asset: Knowledge of Flow or other production management tools.
- Asset: Experience with advanced facial solutions (e.g., FACS, stylized face rigs, facial capture).
- Asset: Development or contribution to internal rigging frameworks.
Additional Information- Full-time, Permanent Contract;
- 5 paid sick/personal days;
- 2 additional statutory holidays in the winter holidays;
- Group Insurance, access to Dialogue online support and to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP);
- RRSP with employer contribution;
- Discounts on public transports, several spas, sports classes, art center, cafes, furniture and several other local businesses.
Videos To Watchhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4G7EKdclfU&t=2s
