Layout technical director, Bad Fairies

Job Title: Layout TD Bad Fairies
Location: London, UK
Reports To: Head of Layout & Head of Pipeline

Role summary:

Locksmith Animation are looking for a layout technical director (layout TD), preferably with experience of CG animation, CG visual effects, or computer games development, to be involved in the development of our feature film front-end pipeline. Based in London, and working with other London-based vendors, we are creating high quality CG films in partnership major studios.

In this role you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the tools, software and workflows used in the layout department on our CG animated feature film. You will be providing face-to-face technical support and assistance to artists, as well as developing new tools and scripts - predominantly in Python - to meet the film’s requirements. The role may also include some rigging work creating character rigs for the layout department.

As well as being able to demonstrate technical skill and initiative, you will need to be an excellent communicator. Your ability to accurately and succinctly communicate between technical developers and non-technical artists will help you thrive in this role.

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Develop pipeline and application specific tools in collaboration with senior production and department supervisors.
• Provide technical advice and support for artists.
• Evaluate existing tools and processes for faults or inefficiencies.
• Ensure requests for new tools are connected with company strategy.
• Create rigs using predefined templates.

Position requirements:

- Solid understanding of the Feature Animation pipeline.
- Excellent Python and Maya skills.
- Experience in developing tools for Maya.
- Familiarity with character rigging.
- A methodical and structured approach to problem solving.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience in animation, visual effects or related industry.
• Experience with source control systems and team development
• Experience with any of the following: Houdini, Shotgun Toolkit, USD, C++
• A degree in computer science, computer graphics or other, related field.

About us:
Locksmith is an independent producer of high-quality animated features and series that entertain global audiences. From comedies, to musicals, to epic sci-fi, we tell contemporary stories that make people laugh, think, and feel. Based in London and Los Angeles, we bring together a team of accomplished industry leaders and world-class creative talent in a filmmaker-led studio. Our debut feature Ron’s Gone Wrong is currently streaming on Disney+. Our second film, That Christmas, based on series of children’s books by writer/director Richard Curtis premiered on Netflix on 4 Dec 2024. We are currently in production of our third feature Bad Fairies.

Please note this is a London based office role, you must have the right to work in the UK to be considered.

Office hours are 09:30 - 18:30.

Please send your CV and covering letter to careers@locksmithanimation.com, FAO Hollie Bell, Layout Department Manager.