Lighter / Compositor

This is a Full Time Job

Member Summary:

Quick Summary (full description below):
The Lighter/Compositor at DreamWorks Animation is responsible for lighting and compositing shots under the supervision of the VFX and Lighting Supervisors. This hybrid role requires a combination of technical expertise and creativity to achieve the desired visual targets.

Salary: $100,000 - $125,000
Workplace Requirements: Hybrid role (minimum three days per week in the office)
Years of Experience Required: Not mentioned
Education Requirements: Bachelor's Degree in Art, Film, Visual Effects, Animation, Computer Graphics, or equivalent experience
Hard Skills Required:
• Experience with lighting and rendering
• Knowledge of cinematic principles
• Experience with Vray, Nuke, and Maya
• Experience with projection systems and compositing

Soft Skills Required:
• Strong organizational skills
• Team collaboration and communication
• Proactive and creative problem solving

Preferred Skills/Experience:
• Experience in Live Action visual FX, ray tracing, and lighting software (Nuke, Katana, Houdini)
• Feature animation experience

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Full Posting:

Job Description:
The Lighter/Compositor will work closely with the VFX Supervisor and Lighting Supervisor to achieve the visual target for assigned shots and handle all lighting notes. Responsibilities include optimizing shots for rendering, developing lighting and compositing keys, and collaborating with the Matte Painting department to finalize shots. This role also involves troubleshooting creative and technical issues, managing individual shot loads to meet deadlines, and attending feedback reviews with vendors.

Key Responsibilities:
• Work with VFX and Lighting Supervisors to address lighting notes for assigned shots.
• Optimize shots for rendering and develop lighting/compositing keys and rigs.
• Collaborate with the Matte Painting department to achieve the desired final look.
• Conduct QC checks on final deliveries from vendors.
• Attend remote feedback and review video calls with vendors as required.
• Foster a positive working atmosphere and troubleshoot any creative or technical issues.
• Organize and document lighting tools, scripts, and processes as needed.
• Manage individual shot loads based on the schedule and ensure deadlines are met.
• May assist with visual development, including surfacing and setting shader parameters.
• Attend dailies and lighting launches as required.
• Inform the CG Supervisor of any shot-related issues.
• Assist with interviews, as needed.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's Degree in Art, Film, Visual Effects, Animation, Computer Graphics, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with lighting, rendering, and cinematic principles.
• Experience with compositing and projection systems.
• Proficiency in Vray, Nuke, and Maya.
• Experience with ray tracing and lighting software (Nuke, Katana, Houdini) is a plus.
• Feature animation experience and live-action visual FX experience are highly desirable.
• Strong organizational skills and a proactive, creative approach to problem-solving.
• Proven track record of successful teamwork and collaboration.

Workplace Requirements:
This is a hybrid role, requiring a minimum of three days per week in the office.