Crowds Supervisor Jobs

The Crowds Supervisor plays an integral role in the production team. In collaboration with the show leadership, they will aid in determining the creative and technical approach for the generation of all crowd imagery for the show, using simulation techniques to populate large numbers of characters, animals, and vehicles that deliver compelling performances.

This is a regular, full time, staff position that will be located at our Vancouver, BC studio. Please note that relocation eligibility may be determined based on role and individual circumstance.

Role Specifics

• Collaborate with show leadership to plan, prepare, and produce all crowd assets/shots for the show
• Collaborate closely with the identified Animation Supervisor who is tasked with crowd cycle generation
• Participate in the coordination of Production/Technology crowd tool development specific for the show and in context with the Studio as a whole
• Supervise a Crowds team, working in conjunction with the show leadership, to identify and implement crowd production workflow processes, enabling the Director’s vision to be realized
• Direct the continuing maintenance and optimization of the entire crowd production process

Implementation

• Responsible for consumability and efficiency of artist deliverables into downstream departments
• Participates in department processes, bidding, and reviews
• Assesses resource needs and collaborates with department leadership in helping find staffing solutions

Leading People

• Guides the creative and technical vision/expectations for the team members
• In tight conjunction with the VFX Supervisor, Production Management, and Department Manager, inspires and motivates the team
• Contributes to the overall craft and development of team members through setting expectations, delivering consistent constructive feedback, recognition, and accountability
• Creates an inclusive and safe work environment by carefully managing sensitive information, making rooms feel open and comfortable, creating space for everyone to have a voice, and addressing bias when it occurs

Collaboration

• Models and fosters a collaborative work environment between individuals on the team and across departments
• Identifies solutions and compromises in partnership with other supervisors

Communication

• Provides regular updates to direct leaders on the progress, health, and direction of the team
• Keeps the team informed with context for show related changes and updates

Studio Stewardship

• Department Stewardship- Partners closely with peers and Department Manager to support an environment of creativity, trust, and innovation. Actively involved in assessment, casting, hiring, and overall growth of artists
• Technology, Tools, and Workflow- Engages in the creation and execution of technical standards, pipeline conventions, and workflows to support the department, show, and studio
• Studio Culture- Actively fosters an inclusive, innovative, and collaborative environment so every employee can contribute at the highest levels

Recommended Experiences

• Houdini®
• 3D Lighting and Compositing techniques
• Minimum 2 years of leadership experience that demonstrates a strong ability to lead and mentor others
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Art, Illustration, Cinema Studies, Computer Graphics, Engineering or equivalent experience
• Ability to architect new technology and write code where required
• The Unix/Linux environment
• Experience with all aspects of computer graphics
• Understanding of the disciplines/craft which they would be leading
• Has a combined technical and creative background
• Strong knowledge of each of the following technical areas:
• Ability to quickly learn and adapt to WDAS standards, pipeline, tools and workflows as they relate to the discipline you would be leading
• Experience as a Crowd Supervisor or similar role in CG Animation and/or Visual Effects production
• 3D Modeling, Rigging, Camera and Animation, Simulation and Effects
• 3D Texture painting and mapping techniques
• Maya®
• Python scripting
• C/C++
• Experience and technical understanding of digital pipeline issues

• Knowledge of anatomy, kinematics and physical behaviors
• Traditional drawing, painting, design and/or sculpture
• Skill in the following areas is desired: