Job description
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
Requirements / Software
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
Additional Information
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
About Zoic
Zoic Studios is a Visual Effects company that specializes in high end visual effects for television, film, and advertising. Our mantra is Visual Evolution - we focus on every part of the process, from the final picture to the pipeline used to create them.
Are you looking for your next creative and technical challenge? Come join our team!
Why Join Zoic?
We are an Artist owned and operated VFX studio
We love what we do and always stay curious about new technology and techniques
We respect work/life balance in a hectic industry
We work with a team from all walks of life and backgrounds
Originally posted on Himalayas
Who can apply
Eligible countries: United States. Accepted UTC offsets: UTC-10, UTC-9, UTC-8, UTC-7, UTC-6, UTC-5, UTC+14. Review the full description for employer-specific work authorization, residency and schedule requirements.