The Select Group is hiring: R&D Character Artist in Cupertino

R&D CHARACTER ARTIST

A cutting-edge Synthetic Data team is seeking an experienced Character Generalist to develop high-fidelity 3D synthetic data for real-time, on-device Computer Vision and Machine Perception technologies. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and excels in cross-functional teams, addressing both immediate creative and technical needs while also providing long-term solutions.

The content created in this role supports multiple projects within the Synthetic Data team. Responsibilities include character modeling, motion capture, rigging, clothing and garment creation, and hair grooming, setting up character models for animation and beyond. The work directly applies to advancements in computer vision and machine learning technologies.

MUST-HAVE SKILLS:

• Expertise in high-fidelity character asset development for film, VFX, VR, AR, and MR applications.
• Proficiency in multiple tools such as Maya, Vray, Substance, Houdini, or similar rendering software.
• Strong skill set in 3D character modeling, scans, grooming, clothing, rigging, texturing, shading, look development, lighting, rendering, scripting, and material calibration.
• Experience with rigging, skinning, blend shape deformation rigs.
• Proficiency in cloth and hair simulation, procedural geometry, and materials.
• Experience working with real-time game engines and offline rendering solutions.
• Ability to deliver high-visual quality within performance constraints.
• Experience collaborating with external teams, creating documentation, and training others.
• Ability to develop tools to improve/automate workflows and solve technical challenges.
• Procedural experience to improve efficiency rather than manually building assets.
• Strong technical understanding to collaborate with engineers on asset setups, rigging, and clothing garment implementation.
• Proficiency in Maya (XGen Interactive and XGen Core) for hair grooming.
• Ability to take a base character mesh and create a full-body character.

PORTFOLIO REQUIREMENTS:

Candidates must provide a portfolio showcasing:

• Full-body character models (the more realistic, the better).
• Digital doubles (strongly preferred).
• Models optimized for animation (geometry scale, deformation quality).
• Custom tools or automation workflows (demonstrated in samples).
• Close-up details of a character’s face demonstrating realism.
• Ability to depict wet vs. dry skin and create diverse character variations in age, ethnicity, gender, and clothing styles.

PLUS SKILLS:

• Python scripting experience.
• Proficiency in Marvelous Designer, ZBrush.
• Experience with shader development.

DAY-TO-DAY RESPONSIBILITIES:

As an R&D Character Artist, your primary focus will be on enhancing visual quality and developing 3D characters to train computer vision and machine learning algorithms. Responsibilities include:

• Modeling, animating, rigging, and developing new methodologies for synthetic data content.
• Collaborating with Leads, Engineers, and cross-functional teams.
• Attending regular meetings with a Lead based in Germany (8-9 AM PT).
• Creating synthetic data content for machine learning and computer vision applications.
• Working on character animation, including manual animation, motion capture cleanup, and animation implementation.
• Troubleshooting and solving technical and artistic challenges.
• Identifying and improving workflow efficiency.
• Developing digital doubles and high-fidelity character assets.
• Adapting to a prototyping environment and leading small initiatives independently.
• Working across Mac OS and Windows environments.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Arts or equivalent experience.

TSG is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.