THE THIRD FLOOR

THE THIRD FLOOR is the world’s leading visualization company with offices in Los Angeles and London as well as on location with productions around the world. Since 2004, the studio has helped clients visualize and maximize content by producing computer-animated blueprints, known as “previsualizations”. The Third Floor is a fun, creative company founded by artists, for artists. We work on extremely high-profile projects, while maintaining a small studio culture. The company has won multiple Emmy and VES awards for its work. Recent projects include WandaVision and Hawkeye, Wonder Woman 1984, The Mandalorian, and many more.

The Third Floor is currently in search of a skilled Lead Lighting Artist to enhance our Finals Animation division. We're looking for individuals well-versed in Unreal, possessing a solid grasp of color and value fundamentals, and exhibiting a sharp creative eye for lighting design. The primary responsibility involves leading and guiding our team of lighting artists in creating impactful shots. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in stylized work, 3D animation, and proficiency in Unreal Engine. We prioritize fluid and efficient collaboration in our artistic endeavors.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement lighting setups for scenes, ensuring alignment with project requirements.
• Utilize Unreal Engine for lighting tasks, contributing to the overall visual impact of animated films.
• Maintain a high consistent standard of quality and speed.
• Lead and inspire the lighting team, providing mentorship and guidance.
• Work collaboratively with other department personnel especially Environment, Character, and VFX artists.
• Communicate effectively, justifying creative decisions and addressing challenges in a timely manner.
• Take the initiative in proposing improvements or optimizations in the lighting pipeline.

Essential Skills:

• Proven experience as a Lighting Artist, showcasing a portfolio with diverse 3D animated film projects.
• Proficiency in using Unreal Engine for lighting tasks.
• Strong understanding of lighting techniques to create realistic and visually appealing setups.
• Knowledge of color theory.
• Excellent understanding of techniques and technologies related to CG rendering.
• Ability to lead and mentor a team, fostering a collaborative and creative environment..
• Able to take direction and work under tight deadlines.
• Problem-solving skills, especially in identifying and addressing lighting issues within scenes.
• Leadership abilities, particularly in guiding a team of lighters and taking initiative for improvements.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience working with Stylized 3D Animation work.
• Experience generating light-maps, pre-lighting or baked lighting.
• Compositing in Nuke is an advantage.
• 3D Animation software, e.g. Maya, Unreal a benefit.
• Scripting in Python is a plus.
• Knowledge of look development and Unreal material editing is a plus.

The pay scale is between $30 - $70 / hour based on experience, skillset and other factors. Additional TTF benefits: Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision), Sick Time, 401k (staff only), PTO (staff only), and additional Perks & Benefits.

U.S. & Canada Applicants only: TTF participates in E-Verify and we will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All documents provided for proof of work authorization must be current and unexpired. We cannot accept expired proof of identity.

IMPORTANT: If the Government cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, TTF is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact DHS and/or the SSA before taking adverse action against you, including terminating your employment.