Assistant Professor - 3D Animation
The Cinema Arts Department in the Conservatory of Performing Arts at Point Park University invites applications for a full-time tenure track appointment to begin Fall 2024. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and expertise:
Key Qualifications:
Strong Understanding of 3D Software:
Proficiency in 3D software tools, including Autodesk Maya and Unreal Engine, is essential. The candidate should be well-versed in their use for modeling, texturing, lighting, creating animations, and render.
Industry Experience:
Demonstrated industry experience in 3D animation, video games, or virtual production is a must. Candidates should have a track record of professional work in these fields.
Educational Qualifications:
A master's degree in a relevant field is required, along with teaching experience at the college level. The candidate should be equipped to deliver engaging and informative courses to students.
Bonus Consideration:
Candidates with experience in virtual production, 3D rigging, Substance Painter, 2D animation (Toon Boom Harmony), or motion graphics (Adobe Creative Suite & Maxon Cinema 4D) will receive bonus consideration.
Key Responsibilities:
- Teach courses in 3D animation using Autodesk Maya & Unreal Engine covering the entire pipeline from modeling and texturing to final animation and rendering.
- Mentor and advise students on their projects and career development.
- Contribute to curriculum development and program enhancement.
- Engage in scholarly activities and research related to animation and virtual production
With over 250 full-time undergraduate students, the Cinema Arts Department is one of three departments in the University's prestigious and nationally recognized Conservatory of Performing Arts. The department offers B.F.A. degrees in Animation, Cinema Production, Screenwriting. Acceptance into the program is competitive, portfolio-based and at the discretion of the Cinema faculty.
The B.F.A. in animation program combines artistic vision and technical skills to transform students’ wildest imaginations into moving images on the screen. This degree requires all students to meet strict deadlines, communicate in class through critiques and discussions, and share artistic work in a public setting through presentations and screenings. Courses of study include 2-D, 3-D and stop-motion animation, and visual effects for movies and motion graphics. With state-of-the-art facilities and faculty with real-world experience, students gain the skills to thrive in their chosen field.
Students and alumni have landed internships and/or jobs at Marvel Studios, Warner Animation Group, Pittsburgh Penguins, among others.
Detailed information about our students' experience in the program can be found at: www.pointpark.edu/cinema.
About Point Park University:
Point Park University is a vibrant, urban campus located at the periphery of historic
Market Square, in downtown Pittsburgh with an enrollment of approximately 4000 full and part-time students in more than 50 areas of academic study.
Degree Requirements:
MFA in Animation, Film/TV Production, Media Arts or a related discipline is required.
Teaching Experience:
A minimum of three years teaching animation related courses at the university or professional level is required.
Application Procedure:
Please submit the following to infocinema@pointpark.edu
Please note that the subject line must state: Faculty Position – Animation - Cinema Arts
- Cover letter
- Resume or Curriculum vita
- Link to a Demo Reel
- Links to additional creative works
- Statement of Teaching Philosophy
- Statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Undergraduate and Graduate Transcripts (will be requested from finalists)
- Contact information for three professional references
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. However, priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by Jan 14th, 2024.
The Cinema Arts Department is committed to building a diverse academic community. Women and individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. Point Park University is an equal opportunity employer.
Applicants must have authorization to work in the United States and not require employer sponsorship.