Motion Capture Stage Lead

Work Mode:
OnsiteResponsibilities:
Welcome to Lightspeed LA, the first U.S.-based, AAA game development studio for Tencent Games. Lightspeed LA is focused on building open-world games that emphasize an ambitious living world, sophisticated player-driven gameplay, and mature, thoughtful storytelling. We are developing the first in a series of genre-defining titles.
Why join Lightspeed LA?
For us, it's not only about the exciting, new AAA open world game we're developing but also about team values and studio culture. We foster an open and transparent environment where everyone feels comfortable providing constructive feedback about all aspects of our games.

• We encourage the showing of work that's still in progress.
• We don't attack or question unfinished work, we celebrate its promise.
• We have a No Blame Culture where we blame the problem, not the person.

This is a safe place to fail, and we don't view failure as a negative, but as the natural result of pushing boundaries and trying new things. We create together. We face challenges together. We succeed together.
About this position at Lightspeed LA
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and passionate Motion Capture Stage Lead to join our in-house team and help create world-class performance capture on a new and exciting open-world AAA game. We are seeking someone who will bring passion to the role, collaborating closely with the Motion Capture and other disciplinary teams, to help create outstanding performances. Below is an outline of responsibilities and some of the qualities we look for in the ideal teammate.
Responsibilities:

• Take responsibility to lead production shoots in the acquisition of Motion Capture, with a focus as AD on set.
• Collect all relevant information for shoots, working closely with producers and animation leads, and delegates tasks to team clearly.
• Sees potential issues before they happen, and tests scenarios thoroughly.
• Responsible for upkeep of all stage hardware, storage, and gear, keeping our technology up to date and making sure the stage is kept clean.
• Mentors and trains new or junior employees on all stations and processes.
• Set-up, operate, monitor and troubleshoot proprietary tools relating to processing Motion Capture data.
• Assist in calibration, directs performer range of motions, and runs quality assurance on recorded asset data.
• Collaborates with producers, acquisition team, technical artists, directors and animators to provide recommendation, guidance and solutions to best acquire data effectively during shoot session.
• Skillfully capture cinematic animation sequences involving characters, props, and virtual cameras.
• Support performer wardrobe fitting and Motion Capture marker application.
• Ability to assist in facial capture helmet-mounted camera systems and operations.
• Assist with prop and set builds and strikes.
• Conduct character calibration/subject setups used in retargeting motion data.
• Contribute to post when not shooting or prepping for shoot by tracking and cleaning assets and/or retargeting onto animation rigs.
• Contribute to post-mortems, provide constructive feedback, and actively participate in improving the Motion Capture process and data output.
• Accurately document workflows and pipelines to maintain a comprehensive knowledge base.
• Assist with development of proprietary tools, pipelines, new technologies, and processes.

Requirements:

• Minimum 8 years Motion Capture or animation background in video games, television, film or other related industry.
• 8 years proficiency in working with industry-leading Motion Capture software, including Vicon Shogun, Motion Builder, Unreal Engine, Shotgrid and/or other relevant tools.
• Familiarity with industry-standard processes, protocols, and best practices related to Motion Capture, animation, and visual effects.
• Understanding of virtual cameras and virtual production techniques
• Understand cinematic language and camera terminology.
• On-set production experience in related entertainment industry: Film, TV, Video games, VFX, preferably several of the above, and works well under the pressures of 'live' production environments.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, in particular during high-pressure live capture shoots.
• Knowledge of timecode, A/V, BlackMagic, Teradeks and/or other similar hardware
• Ability to stream live performance into game engine and/or Motion Builder.
• Willingness to learn new technologies, adapt to proprietary animation pipelines, and stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in Motion Capture.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and find solutions during live capture shoots.
• Ability to identify improvements to existing pipelines and implement the improvements.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborate with animation leads and directors, and communicate clearly and concisely with performers and other production personnel.
• Ability to track, clean, and process Motion Capture data to ensure high-quality results, including the use of software like Motion Builder or Unreal Engine.
• Proven ability to work efficiently and deliver high-quality results within tight deadlines.
• Highly motivated and passionate about their craft.
• Understanding of programming languages (such as python or c++) and custom script development for Motion Capture pipelines is a plus.
• Believe in collaboration, integrity, creativity, and proactivity.

Location State(s)
California
The base pay range for this position in the state(s) above is $101,380 to $185,860 per year. Actual pay is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. A sign on payment, relocation package, and restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, as well as other medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the specific position offered.