Lead Real Time Graphics Developer

This position is responsible for the creation, development and deployment of designs, animations and real-time graphics directories at an advanced level of understanding and skill. The Lead Real Time Graphics Developer builds new graphics and maintains directories specific to Ross Xpression, working independently and collaboratively within a team, and communicates with teammates, partners and end-users to set expectations and ensure on-time delivery. The role contributes to one or more specialty businesses supported by the Innovation team and collaborates within the ESPN Creative Studio on long-term initiatives.

• Primarily utilise Vizrt, Ross Xpression, Unreal Engine or HTML in the creation, development and deployment of graphics for ESPN productions.
• Use other graphics software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Illustrator and Cinema4D to aid in the creation of designs and animations.
• Plan, build, maintain and update graphic directories independently or while collaborating with a team of developers, sometimes in a lead role.
• Provide ownership, direction, troubleshooting and support for event and studio directories, implementing new and innovative approaches.
• Utilise and understand internal proprietary software and workflows.
• Contribute to one or more specialty business segments such as touchscreen, interactive, virtual studio, data visualisation or augmented reality.
• Work closely with management on deliverables to manage expectations with team members and ensure effective, on-time delivery.
• Independently research and answer technical questions with respect to design and animation techniques and workflows.
• Create project-wide workflows, scripts and processes, and coordinate with management to provide feedback, improve processes and apply best practices to all project workflows.
• Assist with hardware and software upgrades and new studio builds.
• Teach and assist co-workers and help with on-boarding and training of other developers.
• Collaborate within the ESPN Creative Studio to contribute to long-term initiatives.
• Translate project details and creative direction into custom design, animation and layout solutions.
• Push creativity and software skills to higher levels, explore new technology and actively communicate on all phases of a project to maintain the quality of ESPN's on-air product.
• Contribute innovative ideas, pushing designs to the next level, and learn new software to enhance individual versatility in the department.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience designing graphics for a live production setting at a major studio, network or production company.
• Advanced knowledge of a real-time graphics platform such as Ross Xpression, some Vizrt and the potential for Unreal Engine or HTML, along with the workflows to implement graphics in an event or studio setting.
• Advanced 2D and 3D animation skills and excellent use of effective type layout.
• Good grasp of broadcast and television production technology.
• Aptitude and drive to learn, create and apply new concepts, techniques and software, and the ability to share skills with peers.
• Drive to contribute new and innovative ideas, displaying conceptualisation skills and the ability to offer unique creative solutions at project and department-wide level, and to successfully implement them at a project-wide level.
• Excellent communication skills, setting expectations with stakeholders for on-time delivery while taking and giving direction well.
• Ability to plan and implement new hardware, software and studio builds.
• Keen attention to detail, spelling and grammar.
• Ability and willingness to work flexible hours and occasionally travel and work in a live-TV setting.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Minimum of 8 years of live broadcast sport graphics experience encompassing event and/or studio workflows.
• Advanced-level knowledge and understanding of Ross Xpression, Vizrt and Trio software.
• Experience with or understanding of graphics playout in a live setting.
• Understanding of 3D graphics, modelling and animation concepts, with experience in Cinema4D, Maya, Unreal Engine or other 3D animation programs.
• Advanced ability to write and troubleshoot Viz Scripting (Visual Basic), C#, JavaScript, C++ and/or other programming languages.
• Strong interest in and knowledge of sports and sports culture.
• Reliable transportation to work.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

• Requires the person to be in the office.
• The preferred work location is the Charlotte, NC office, with consideration given to the Bristol, CT office.

• The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs, and the base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills and experience, among other factors.
• A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, dependent on the level and position offered.

• A full range of medical, financial and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN and Disney Experiences.