Motion Capture Supervisor

Role:                      Motion Capture Supervisor

Reports to:             Chief Technical Officer

Location:               Belfast Harbour Studios, Northern Ireland 

Contract Type:       Permanent

Job Reference:      MCS/11/24

Introduction and Background

Studio Ulster Ltd is a ground-breaking large-scale Virtual Production creative technology company, established in early 2024 and set to launch in Q1, 2025 at Belfast Harbour Studios, just 10 minutes from Belfast City Centre. This £75 m, 75,000 ft² facility will house some of the most advanced virtual production facilities worldwide, including cutting-edge In-Camera Visual Effects (ICVFX) stages, alongside world class Motion Capture stages, 3D/4D Volumetric Scanning stages, and other supporting facilities. This combination of technologies under one roof at this scale is globally unique and provides one of the most advanced virtual production facilities available globally.

Studio Ulster is a strategic partnership with Belfast Harbour Studios, supported by Northern Ireland Screen, and is designed to elevate the commercial studio capability in the UK, Ireland and Europe for real-time visual effects. The complex is also home to the UKRI/AHRC-funded CoSTAR Screen Lab, a creative technologies lab focusing on real-time production, which alone unlocks nearly £11m in research investment.

This world-class facility, housed in a custom-built BREEAM Excellent facility, powered by renewal energy and supported by a highly skilled crew, is in a region renowned for its production excellence, with iconic shows like Game of Thrones made in Northern Ireland. The infrastructure needed for productions of any scale is available on our doorstep drawing productions and companies back to shoot in NI time and time again. 

Aligned with the recent government initiatives under the Creative Industries Sector Vision to grow the UK’s GDP by £50 billion and create one million jobs by 2030, Studio Ulster is poised to attract some of the largest production companies globally, as well as local and national screen industry contracts.

To support the growth and operational excellence of Studio Ulster, we are seeking to recruit a Motion Capture Supervisor.

Job Summary

The Motion Capture Supervisor will oversee all technical aspects of motion capture systems and real-time integration on set. This role is responsible for incorporating client assets, motion capture data, and tools into the production pipeline, working closely with other departments to ensure seamless integration. The Supervisor will provide and oversee operation of the motion capture facilities ensure the integrity of captured data. Provide strong guidance, insight and leadership to the team operating the motion capture system. Additionally, this role will assist the CTO in exploring and developing new technologies related to motion capture and real-time rendering.

Key Duties

●       Collaborate closely with production teams in designing and maintaining motion capture and camera tracking systems before and during production.

●       Coordinate with other departments to meet deliverable requirements while adhering to production deadlines.

●       Ensure seamless integration of motion capture into virtual production workflows.

●       Manage the daily operations of mocap systems in live production settings.

●       Supervise the delivery of motion capture assets on a daily basis.

●       Provide leadership and guidance to the motion capture team.

●       Foster strong communication and collaboration with pre-production, post-production, and on-set departments to maintain a smooth workflow throughout the production process.

●       Train teams and individuals as needed to ensure smooth operations in your absence.

●       Conduct weekly dailies to support post-production efforts.

●       Ensure accurate recording and proper handling of motion capture data.

●       Offer expertise in camera tracking, adapting to the specific needs of each production.

●       Assist the virtual production supervisor in ensuring a seamless transition to post-production.

●       Oversee the maintenance and servicing of all volume and tools.

●       Test and evaluate new hardware and software solutions.

●       Continuously optimise the camera tracking pipeline and workflow.

●       Perform additional duties as required.

Essential Criteria

●       Strong attention to detail, outstanding organisational abilities, and the capability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

●       5+ years of experience with Motion Capture technology, VFX, and physical production.

●       Proven experience engaging effectively with clients on set and collaborating with key creative teams.

●       Demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality data in dynamic and fast-paced environments.

●       Expertise in on-set digital acquisition hardware.

●       Advanced proficiency in motion capture, camera tracking hardware, and on-set pipeline processes.

●       In-depth knowledge of LED and projection display systems.

●       Ability to handle technically complex tasks while maintaining a positive and productive attitude during live action productions.

●       Proven leadership and mentorship experience with stage production crews.

●       Strong understanding of game engines and related technologies.

●       Thorough knowledge of the principles, workflows, and practices of visual effects and film production.

●       Familiar with visual effects asset creation and shot production pipelines.

●       Extensive experience in still photography, film, and video production.

●       Comprehensive understanding of lighting and stage rigging systems used in film production.

●       Experience working with video hardware and signal systems.

●       Preferred experience with broadcast video systems.

●       Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues in complex systems involving computers, video equipment, software, and sensor-driven systems.

●       Excellent communication, interpersonal, and diplomacy skills.

Working at Studio Ulster

Studio Ulster offers a competitive salary package that is commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. This package includes a comprehensive benefits suite and bonuses which aligns with the industry standards and reflects our commitment to the wellbeing of our team.

Studio Ulster Ltd is committed to developing all employees and operates a Developmental Appraisal Review (DAR) which is mandatory. You will be required to meet with your line manager at least every year as part of the DAR process. If you have line management responsibility for other staff, you will be required to conduct DAR meetings with your staff at least once every two years.

All staff in Studio Ulster Ltd have a responsibility to comply with the company’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Health and Safety Policy. Line Managers have responsibility for ensuring compliance with these Policies within their own area.

We welcome applications from all members of society, irrespective of age, disability, sexual orientation, race, gender, religion, or belief. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

How to apply                             

Apply now if you’re interested in being a part of an innovative new enterprise in the heart of motion picture and television.

Send your CV and a Cover Letter to our team at careers@studioulster.com

Deadline for submissions is Friday 6th December 2024

We look forward to receiving your application