Real Time Graphics Developer II

Job Description

This position is responsible for the creation, development and deployment of designs, animations, and real-time graphics directories at an intermediate level of understanding and skill. The Real-Time Developer II works on directory maintenance and new graphic builds while collaborating with a team or independently, with little oversight. They communicate with supervisors, teammates and partners to help set expectations and ensure on-time delivery. They will adhere to department and project workflows and processes. They will provide error-free graphics and technical support. They will participate in and assist with training and onboarding programs. This is a creative role that requires the ability to innovate, learn quickly and collaborate with others under varying deadlines to maintain the quality of ESPN on-air product.

Responsibilities :

Primarily utilize Vizrt, Ross Xpression, or Unreal Engine in the process of graphics creation, development, and deployment of graphics for ESPN productions

Plan, build, maintain and update graphic directories with little oversight or while collaborating with a team of developers

Translate project details and creative direction into custom design, animation, and layout solutions

Provide  troubleshooting and support for event and / or studio directories

Utilize other graphics software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After-Effects, Adobe Illustrator, and Cinema4D, to aid in the creation of designs and animations

Utilize and understand internal proprietary software and workflows

Learn about specialty business segments such as touchscreen, interactive, virtual studio, data visualization, augmented reality, etc…

Work closely with management and teammates on deliverables to manage expectations and ensure effective and on-time delivery

Research and answer technical questions with respect to design / animation techniques and workflows

Adhere to project-wide workflows, scripts and processes

Engage with hardware and / or software upgrades and new studio builds

Assist co-workers and help with on-boarding and training

Collaborate within the ESPN Creative Studio to contribute to long-term initiatives

Push creativity and software skills to higher levels, explore new technology, and communicate on all phases of a project to maintain the quality of ESPN’s on-air product

Participate in special assignments such as in-house / off-site training and technical support for packagers, remote freelancers, and vendors

Observe graphic format deviations and enforce ESPN graphic look

Prepare image files for program

Contribute innovative ideas, pushing designs to the next level, and learn new software to enhance individual versatility in the department

Adhere to proper file management techniques to ensure efficient archiving and subsequent retrieval of projects

Recognize, report, and help troubleshoot equipment / software / work environment issues

Adhere to all administrative responsibilities, including time entry and daily reporting requirements

Maintain high standards of efficiency, consistency, accuracy, creativity and timely delivery of all requests

Track and report on value of contributions

Requirements : ​

At least 3 years of experience designing graphics or working in a live production setting

Intermediate knowledge of a real-time graphics platform such as Vizrt, Ross Xpression or Unreal Engine

Hands-on knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe After-Effects

Excellent understanding and regular use of effective type layout

Evident 2D animation skills

Experience working with graphics for live production or broadcast setting

Interest in or experience with broadcast and television production technologies

Ability to write and troubleshoot Viz Scripting (visual basic), C#, Javascript, C++ and / or other programming languages

Aptitude and drive to learn and apply new concepts, techniques and software

In possession of communications skills, helping team leaders and management set expectations for on-time delivery and taking direction well

Drive to contribute new and innovative ideas

Ability to assist with new hardware, software and studio builds

Highly motivated, works well under pressure, effectively prioritizes assignments and changes direction easily

Keen attention to detail, spelling and grammar

Ability and willingness to work flexible hours and occasionally travel and work in a live-TV setting

Applicants must provide a link to their online portfolio / demo reel

Preferred Requirements :

5 years of real-time experience at a major network or production company

Experience with live broadcast sport graphics experience encompassing event and / or studio workflows

Some knowledge and understanding of Vizrt and Trio software

Experience with or understanding of graphics playout in a live setting

Experience with 3D graphics, modeling and animation concepts with experience in Cinema4D, Maya, Unreal Engine or other 3D animation program

Strong ability to write and troubleshoot Viz Scripting (visual basic), C#, Javascript, C++ and / or other programming languages

Strong interest and knowledge of sports and sports culture

Must have reliable transportation to work

Required Education :

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Preferred Education :

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

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