Designer II, Motion Graphics

Job Description

The Designer II, Motion Graphics is responsible for the creation, development, deployment and playout of designs, animations, and real-time graphics directories at an advanced level. This position provides creative support for daily production and long-range assignments, contributes to group projects, and works independently on assignments when needed. This is a hands-on position requiring individuals who possess strong conceptualization skills, the ability to offer unique creative solutions, change direction easily, push their creativity and software skills to higher levels, exploit new technology, and actively communicate on all phases of a project to maintain the quality of ESPN’s on-air product.
Responsibilities :

• Utilizes Ross Xpression, VIZ-RT, Adobe, Cinema4D, and ESPN proprietary software to create advanced designs and animations for network productions and long-range assignments.
• Operates playout applications for studio and remote productions.
• Works on special assignments such as covering “in-house” productions using the Trio interface with complete understanding of setup & execution of the graphics package.
• Observes format deviations and enforces graphic looks.
• Translates project details and creative direction into unique design, animation, and layout solutions.
• Creates graphics and animations for touchscreens, print and set designs, studio/remote applications, and ‘proof of concept’ projects.
• Creates and develops graphics directories for studio shows and remote events.
• Actively involved with the conceptual development of design initiatives within the ESPN Creative Services Department.
• Creates and evolves graphics looks for studio and remote productions.
• Actively participates on special assignments such as in-house/off-site training and technical support for packagers, remote freelancers and vendors.
• Displays ability to research and answer technical questions with respect to design/animation techniques or systems in use.
• Proactively collaborates within the ESPN Creative Services group to contribute on longer-term initiatives.
• Observes graphic format deviations and enforces ESPN graphic look.
• Adheres to proper file management techniques to ensure efficient archiving and subsequent retrieval of projects.
• Recognizes, reports, and helps troubleshoot equipment/software/work environment issues.
• Adheres to all administrative responsibilities, including time entry and daily reporting requirements.
• Participates in at least 32 hours of supplemental training/shadowing each year to promote personal growth and understanding of other ESPN departments and workflows.
• Displays strong understanding and regular use of effective type layout.
• Expected to consistently strive to stretch the boundaries of ESPN design.
• Maintains high standards of efficiency, consistency, accuracy, creativity and timely delivery of all requests.
• Must be highly motivated, work well under pressure, and able to effectively prioritize multiple assignments.
• Demonstrates aptitude to learn new software to enhance individual versatility in the department, including Viz Script, Java, VB or equivalent scripting functions and logic.
• Possesses strong individual and team communication skills with the ability to take direction well.
• Displays keen attention to detail, spelling and grammar.

Basic Qualifications :

• Able to perform advanced functions of PC-based playout systems for live productions.
• Able to provide training for new hires on various Studio and International productions.
• Proficient understanding of production terminology and control room etiquette and overall professionalism
• Strong hands-on knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Premiere, and Adobe AfterEffects.
• Demonstrated 3D animation skills with good understanding of animation principles and theory.
• Must expect to travel, work flexible hours (days of the week, nights, weekends and holidays) as assignments or training necessitate.
• Must have reliable transportation to work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A minimum of 3 years of hands-on design, graphics, animation, or motion graphics experience with Adobe, Cinema4D, Ross, Xpression, VIZ-RT/Trio, or related software equivalents in a major TV market or network level.
• Understanding of real-time software packages.
• Passion for sports and a desire to create visually appealing imagery to enhance ESPN programming.
• Familiarity with ESPN programming and family of networks.

Required Education :

• High School Diploma or Equivalent

Preferred Education :

• A College or Technical School degree in communications, electronics, television production or related field