Senior Previs Artist - Expression of Interest

This posting is an opportunity to submit your resume for future consideration; this is not a role that is open currently. We anticipate this role may open in the future. If you'd like to be considered, please submit your resume and reel. If the role opens, a recruiter may reach out.

This position is based in the United States; applicants must already reside in the U.S.

A Previs Artist at Zoic Studios works closely with the Creative Director/VFX Supervisor and Camera Department Supervisor to explore and define shot and sequence concepts, helping establish the visual language of each project.

What You Will Do

• Design shots and sequences in 3D (Maya) based on scripts, storyboards, or creative kickoffs
• Apply strong camera composition and lensing to drive rough and final camera animation
• Source 2D/3D assets from internal depots or online resources, and build rough models, rigs, and shaders when more efficient
• Help manage previs asset depots by adding and updating assets
• Roughly animate objects, characters, and natural elements to communicate story intent
• Use lighting and simple atmospheric effects to establish mood
• Edit previs shots into sequences with rough pacing, occasionally matching audio cues or timeline constraints
• Work within pipeline constraints to allow easy conversion to production shot work
• Create tech-vis setups for on-set teams (camera lens, height, tilt/roll, distance to subject, set-build dimensions)
• Work at the fast pace typical of television timelines, keeping supervisors updated on estimates and goals
• Act as/assist a Layout Artist when previs demands are lighter, including:
  • Building from and QC'ing tracking and matchmove work
  • Framing plate cameras within CG environments
  • Placing assets into practical environments
  • Building environments using provided CG assets
  • Performing camera takeovers from plate cameras
  • Executing 2.5D projection work

• 5+ years of experience in Previs, Layout, or Animation in VFX for film/TV
• A recent demo reel demonstrating your experience
• Strong ability to interpret story through partial/full scripts, storyboards, and verbal kickoffs
• Deep knowledge of Maya - 3D animation, mocap, modeling, Viewport 2.0 lighting/effects
• Knowledge of real-world camera lensing, bodies, formats, and vocabulary
• Basic editing skills in Hiero, DaVinci Resolve, Premiere, or After Effects
• Shotgun/Flow Tracker and Windows experience
• Experience with Unreal Engine, Houdini, and Nuke is a plus
• Ability to learn and contribute to existing pipelines
• Strong verbal communication skills; well organized and adaptable across shows and pipelines
• Willingness to attend dailies, present work, and receive feedback
• Interest in training/onboarding new artists
• Enthusiasm for learning new software, pipelines, and technology

• Pay: $50–60/hr, DOE
• Zoic does not cover relocation costs
• Zoic Studios U.S. participates in E-Verify
• This description covers basic requirements only; other duties may be assigned
• Due to application volume, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted