Facial Rigging TD (Expression of Interest)

Please note we are currently only taking speculative applications and are not actively hiring.

The multi-Oscar-winning creative Film & Episodic Studio at Framestore has worked with some of the greatest storytellers in film today. Collaborating with directors and producers across the complete filmmaking process to help design, plan and create beautiful images, we focus on finding innovative creative solutions to support their vision and set new standards for visual effects in cinema.

Framestore combines talent and technology to bring life to everything we create. Driven by creativity and inspired by the future, we set out every day to reframe the possible.

About the role

Facial Rigging Technical Directors are responsible for designing, creating and maintaining highly accurate and efficient face rigs for high end visual effects films. The Facial Riggers work closely with Modellers and Animators to develop and refine rigs that meet the specific requirements of a VFX pipeline.

What you’ll do

• Prototype, implement and refine facial controls and deformation rigs.

• Troubleshoot and fix rig issues, collect artistic feedback and fine tune face rig behaviour.

• Become a proficient user and contributor of the extensive rigging tool-set and in-house deformers.

• Explore and improve on the existing face creation workflow.

• Create simple tools to help the animation workflow and rig interaction.

• Work within the pipeline and rigging standards.

• Meet delivery deadlines under production constraints.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of human face anatomy and facial expressions.

• Realistic or cartoon-style eye and mouth rigs, Knowledge of FACS.

• General Maya rigging.

• A passion for creating believable CG characters and the requisite attention to detail.

• Experience with scripting (i.e. Python) and the ability to follow strict coding standards.

• Analytical and artistic skills, creativity and visual problem solving.

• Teamwork, communication and time management skills.

• The ability to write technical documentation and present your work (wiki, screen capture, etc.).

• Strong interest in comparative anatomy.

You might also have

• Experience with facial motion capture, solving and retargeting a plus.

• Life drawing or organic modelling, especially human anatomy.

• Basic knowledge of dynamics (Maya Hair, nCloth, nParticle, etc.).

• A decent maths background is a plus.

Accessibility Statement

Our London studio is fully accessible, with step-free entry, accessible toilets on all floors, and quiet spaces available. We are committed to supporting disabled colleagues and providing an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Application Process

To apply, please complete the linked application form or email your resume and portfolio to [email protected] with the subject line: Facial Rigging Technical Director EOI – London.

We review all applications manually and do not use artificial intelligence to screen candidates. If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please let us know - we are happy to accommodate your needs.