Open Rank Professor of the Practice of Cinematic Arts - John C. Hench Division of Animation and

Overview

The John

C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts within the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Southern California is seeking an experienced professional in the animation industry to fill a full‑time non‑tenure track faculty position to teach beginning foundational and intermediate level courses. Initial rank will be commensurate with qualifications and accomplishments.

Qualified candidates will have extensive professional animation experience at major studios along with experience at smaller studios. A diverse background that includes additional professional experience in different mediums outside of animation is welcomed. Applicants should possess substantial credits in animated feature film and/or television. The ideal candidate will have some teaching experience with a commitment to mentoring students toward achieving their educational and career goals.

The candidate must have considerable experience using current animation techniques and tools.

The Hench Division teaches animation from a maker’s point of view with a focus on creation, design, and innovation. Master of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts students hone their aesthetic, cinematic, motion and visual design skills while building a foundation of production and software competencies within a simulated studio environment.

Teach beginning foundational and intermediate level courses and mentor students toward achieving their educational and career goals.

Minimum Education: Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree

Minimum Experience: A minimum of eight years of professional experience in the animated film and television industry

Preferred Education: Master of Arts degree

Preferred Experience: Teaching experience and a minimum of ten years of professional experience in the animation film and television industry including supervisory experience

Skills and

Competencies:

• Strong foundational skills in the fundamentals of art and design
• Digital asset creation skills such as modeling, surfacing, rigging, and lighting
• Solid Maya experience
• Demonstrated knowledge of effective usage of digital assets in visual storytelling
• Ability to pivot between various artistic styles and looks
• Full cycle creative filmmaking experience
• Strong communications skills
• Exceptional collaboration skills
• An innovative and future focused mindset
• Ability to develop courses and create syllabuses and/or adapt existing ones
• Strong knowledge of Blender and real‑time game engines is a plus

Required Submission Materials: Cover Letter, CV/Resume, and link to online Portfolio and/or Reel

The core salary range for this position is as follows. This is a 9‑month full‑time, non‑tenure track position.

• Assistant Professor: $83,000 - $90,000
• Associate Professor: $85,000 - $95,000
• Full Professor: $90,000 - $110,000

When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.