[PAID] - 3D Character Generalist (Modeling, Rigging) for Indie Console Game [US ONLY]
Tic Toc Games is seeking a 3D Character Generalist with experience in modeling, texturing, and rigging highly stylized, angular and cartoony 3D Models. They must have a love for character design, storytelling, and be a creative problem solver. This position is freelance to start, with potential for longer term employment.
US-based applicants only.
Responsibilities
- Work off of provided 2D turnaround spec sheets to model, UV map, texture, and rig 3D characters (3,000-4,000 polys) to create high-quality, animation-ready 3D characters.
- Work with the Art Director to iterate on 3D designs, using critical thinking and creative problem solving to adapt stylized 2D designs to 3D space while preserving original design’s intention.
- Use existing documentation to create bipedal character rigs with IK/FK switching.
- Create UV maps and textures based on provided designs.
- Create UV maps that are easy to understand and usable for 2D artists.
- Thoroughly test character rigs and skin weighting to identify clipping/bending issues and ensure models are animation-ready.
- Creatively address issues in rig when clipping/bending issues arise.
- Use existing documentation to create facial rigs and test them on models, finding creative ways to push expression and emotion.
- Work with the Art Director, Animators, and programmers to revise and iterate on rigs and adjust them as necessary to fit the game’s needs.
- Communicate with producers and the art team to ensure art quality deadlines are met.
- Work with tech artists and programmers to ensure art is accurately and consistently imported in the game.
Requirements
- 2+ years practical art/design experience working in interactive media or 4+ years of education in interactive media.
- Expert knowledge of Maya.
- Expert knowledge of the entire 3D pipeline: modeling, UV-map and texturing, rigging.
- Ability to export game-ready assets and provide implementation team with all necessary documentation
- Expert understanding of IK/FK Switching in rig creation.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, naming conventions and file structure.
- Ability to create clean, animation-ready rigs that follow easy-to-understand naming conventions
- Able to adapt to various different rigging situations to improve mobility for various props, environments, costumes, etc.
- Able to work well in a team environment and communicate effectively with all development disciplines: programming, art, design, and production.
- Unrelenting self-motivation and initiative to make the art better in our games.
- Experience with ZBrush.
Pluses
- Traditional (2D) animation skills.
- A good understanding of the pipeline for game development.
- Knowledge of 3ds Max.
- Developed your own games for fun.
- A strong interest in mobile, console, or PC gaming
- BA in a related discipline or technical equivalent.
- Experience in agile development.
Qualified Candidates should submit their cover letter and resume to jobs@tictocgames.com for consideration.