DNEG→
Facial Modeller (DNEG VFX) - Expression of interest at DNEG · United…
Mid LevelOn-siteFull-timeUnited Kingdom, GB
Skills
mayapolygon modellingsub-d modellingmudboxz-brushuv layoutdisplacement workflowsfacial anatomyfacs expressionsattention to detailspatial awarenesscommunicationcollaborationadaptabilitytime managementself-drivenproblem solvinglinuxfacial scanningphotogrammetrymachine-learning-driven facial pipelinesr3ds wrapunrealunitynurbs modellingpassion for human and creature anatomyobjective and self-critical eye
Job Description
Facial Modellers at DNEG focus on creating highly accurate digital likenesses and expressive facial asset systems for world-class VFX and TV projects. You will work closely with texture, shader, look-development and rigging teams to deliver hero-quality assets that hold up in extreme close-ups, LED volumes, high-resolution formats and next-generation real-time workflows.
Must Haves
- Demonstrated ability to create accurate digital likenesses in neutral and FACS expressions.
- Strong understanding of facial anatomy, expression mechanics and muscle systems.
- A very keen eye for detail
- Excellent spatial awareness and a refined sense of form, proportion and silhouette.
- Expert knowledge of polygon/sub-D modelling in Maya with an ability to quickly learn proprietary tools.
- A working knowledge of packages such as Mudbox or Z-brush
- Ability to produce clean, animation-friendly topology and efficient UV layouts.
- Understanding of how model detail translates into displacement workflows, shaders and material look-development.
- Ability to objectively assess likeness accuracy and iterate quickly according to feedback.
Nice to Have
- A working knowledge of Linux
- Experience working with facial scanning, photogrammetry, or machine-learning-driven facial pipelines.
- Familiarity with wrap-based workflows (e.g., R3DS Wrap).
- Knowledge of real-time engines (Unreal/Unity) for facial asset review.
- 4+ years experience in high-end VFX, TV, or AAA games.
- Knowledge of NURBS modelling
- At least 4 years’ experience modelling creatures for high end film or TV
- A passion for human and creature anatomy.
- Previous experience producing hero-quality facial assets within a creature or character team.
About You
- Meticulous, observant and committed to delivering photoreal results.
- Clear communicator and collaborative team player.
- Adaptable and eager to learn new tools and techniques, including in-house technologies.
- Calm under pressure with strong time-management skills and an accurate sense of task duration.
- Self-driven with a proactive, solution-focused mindset.
- Objective and self-critical eye with a strong sense of quality contro