Lead Modeler - Feature Animation - ILM London

Lead Modeler - Feature Animation - ILM London

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Industrial Light & Magic

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a talented team to create stunning assets for feature animation projects.
  • Company: Join the legendary Industrial Light & Magic, known for innovation in filmmaking.
  • Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for creative growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on artistic excellence and innovation.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of animation, shaping the future of visual storytelling.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience in feature animation and strong leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

At Industrial Light & Magic we’re pushing the boundaries of feature animation, combining artistic vision with cutting‑edge technology. We are looking for a Lead Modeler to work within our Feature Animation team who reflects the collaborative mindset, excellence and passion for great filmmaking that define ILM. The Lead Modeler is responsible for leading other artists with patience and respect to make sure they are supported and successful. They have the ability to help bid, delegate and create photoreal and stylized assets for extreme close up and hero use as well as review model assets and manage show expectations. Prior experience in feature animation is essential as you’ll be instrumental in delivering projects that uphold ILM’s legacy of excellence and innovation.

What You’ll Do:

  • Help with handoffs and communicating asset goals and notes between artists, production and supervision.
  • Work with Supervisors and HOD to determine the best approach for complex issues.
  • Instigate and explore workflow strategies for complex assets.
  • Collaborate with a cross‑functional team, including Texture Artists, Lookdev TDs, Creature Artists and other Model Artists, to be a key artist in the desired concept and topology aspects of assets.
  • Support environment and set dressing artists with efficient large scale assets and model kits.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Significant proven experience in Feature Animation Projects at a Lead level and proven ability to deliver complex shots to the highest level of quality.
  • Ability to maintain the team's asset presentation and delivery standards across multiple shows.
  • Flexibility working across character, hard surface and large scale assets.
  • Comfort in managing hero models needs beyond the level of detail provided in reference.
  • Distilling the creative vision from clients into notes for artists to follow.
  • Experience working closely with production on a large scale feature.

Technical Skills:

  • Established production experience with Maya.
  • A good understanding of a full Feature Animation pipeline.
  • Strong skills in developing advanced subdivision surfaces model assets.
  • Comfortable exploring concept sculpts in software such as Zbrush.
  • Ability to use node networks such as Houdini a plus.
  • Ability to use shotgrid is a plus.

As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required. This role is Hybrid, which means the employee will be required to work a minimum of 2 days on‑site per week at a Company designated location, and occasionally from home.

Lead Modeler - Feature Animation - ILM London employer: Industrial Light & Magic

At Industrial Light & Magic London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that champions creativity and collaboration. As a Lead Modeler, you will not only have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology on groundbreaking projects but also benefit from a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and artistic excellence. With a commitment to innovation and a legacy of cinematic achievement, ILM offers a unique platform for artists to thrive in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant creative hubs.

Industrial Light & Magic

Contact Details:

Industrial Light & Magic Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Modeler - Feature Animation - ILM London

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those at ILM or similar companies. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for advice or insights. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Make sure your demo reel is top-notch and highlights your best work in feature animation. Tailor it to showcase your experience with complex assets and collaboration, as that’s what ILM is all about. Remember, first impressions count!

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding of the animation pipeline. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you’ve led teams. Show them you’re not just a great artist, but also a fantastic collaborator!

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence can go a long way!

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Modeler - Feature Animation - ILM London

Feature Animation
Leadership
Collaboration
Asset Management
Maya
Subdivision Surfaces
Zbrush

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Best Work:When you submit your demo reel, make sure it highlights your strongest projects. We want to see your creativity and technical skills shine through, so pick pieces that really represent your style and expertise in feature animation.

Tailor Your Resume:Your resume should reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Lead Modeler role. We’re looking for proven experience in feature animation, so don’t forget to emphasise your leadership roles and any complex projects you've delivered.

Be Clear and Concise:In your application, clarity is key! Make sure your notes and descriptions are easy to understand. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to your creative vision and how you can support our team.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!

How to prepare for a job interview at Industrial Light & Magic

Showcase Your Portfolio

Make sure to bring a well-organised demo reel that highlights your best work in feature animation. Focus on projects where you played a lead role, showcasing your ability to deliver complex shots and your understanding of the full animation pipeline.

Understand the Company Culture

Research Industrial Light & Magic's values and recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your collaborative mindset and passion for filmmaking align with their mission. This will show that you're not just interested in the job, but also in being part of their creative community.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Brush up on your technical skills, especially in Maya and Zbrush. Be prepared to discuss your experience with advanced subdivision surfaces and how you've tackled complex asset issues in past projects. This will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.

Practice Communication Skills

Since the role involves leading a team and communicating asset goals, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you would distil creative visions into actionable notes for artists, as this is crucial for success in the Lead Modeler position.