Storyboard/Layout Artist (Retro Studios)
Job Description
THIS IS AN ONSITE CONTRACT POSITION – Austin, TX
Position includes:
- Paid weekly
- Health care benefits available
- Paid time-off provided
- Paid holidays observed
- Access to Nintendo discounts
Retro Studios:
Founded in 1998, Retro Studios is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., and a powerhouse in game development. Working hand-in-hand with Nintendo, we craft award-winning titles for the company's cutting-edge platforms, blending innovation, artistry, and gameplay excellence.
Our home base is Austin, Texas, a vibrant city known for its creative energy, live music, stunning natural scenery, and forward-thinking culture. With year-round sunshine and endless options for outdoor adventures, Austin offers the perfect backdrop for world-class developers to stay inspired, balanced, and at the top of their game.
Description of Duties:
- Work with the narrative team to quickly create storyboards that best represents the style of the IP
- Help cinematics lead, designers, and the art director to create interesting cinematic moments
- Help to maintain cinematic foundations established by the cinematic team
- Assist in editing and tracking of cinematics through the storyboard and layout phases.
- Work with the design team to reinforce gameplay goals through filmic moments
- Work with various teams to ensure that the game cinematics are implemented into engine
- Assist the animation team’s effort by communicating intent and goals for each cinematic moment
- Help identify interesting performance moments that elevate the product
- Polish cameras while maintaining the intended messaging and emotion of the scene
*This job description outlines primary duties and requirements and is not intended to identify all tasks that may be performed; individuals occupying the position may be required to perform other duties. The company may modify job duties from time to time, either in practice or in writing.
Summary of Requirements:
- Must have storyboard/layout portfolio that shows an understanding of visual storytelling through camera placement, timing, and character performance.
- Demonstrated ability to use independent judgment and creativity in developing storyboards and layouts under the guidance of design and cinematic leadership
Skills:
- Self-starter with proactive attitude that thrives in creative environments
- Passion for sharing insights and ability to coach others
- Excellent communication, organizational, personal, and problem-solving skills
Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of camera blocking, movement, and language
- Advanced understanding 3D camera design and animation
- Deep understanding of storyboard language and able to create animatics.
- Confidence maintaining a cinematic style and visual continuity
- Able to problem solve issues that can occur during the various stages of development
Experience:
- Experience with already established IP is a plus
- Prior cinematics experience is mandatory
- Complete understanding of Maya camera and animation tools is necessary
- Proficiency with Toon Boom Storyboard Pro
- Experience with Flow, Confluence, and Jira is a plus
- Basic film editing experience using Premiere is helpful
Education:
- Undergraduate degree in art related subject; or completion of an intensive art training program; or equivalent independent study and experience.
Retro Studios is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy, and respect for each other.