Character Technical Artist

Play a role in bringing Apple technology to the world. We are looking for a hardworking,

dedicated, and results-oriented 3D Tech Artist. You would join a team building simulation art

assets. Apple is where individual imaginations gather together, committing to the values that lead to great work. Every new product we build, service we create, or Apple Store experience we deliver is the result of us making each other’s ideas stronger. That happens because every one of us shares a belief that we can make something wonderful and share it with the world, changing lives for the better. It’s the diversity of our people and their thinking that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do. When we bring everybody in, we can do the best work of our lives. Here, you’ll do more than join something - you’ll add something.

Description

As a Character Technical Artist in the AIML Simulation group, you will have an opportunity to

be part of an innovation-focused organization within Apple that is developing simulations and

generating synthetic data. You will be able to work on highly ambitious and impactful simulation

projects. This team has a strong focus on enabling AIML-based features and products. Our ideal

team member brings experience but is also fearless when it comes to trying new things and is

willing to iterate on ideas. We value team members who can quickly prototype, iterating all the

way to high-quality implementations. Moreover, we value team members who can collaborate

effectively with cross-functional teams across the organization.","responsibilities":"Work with pipeline and asset generation tools to generate and vary character models.

Collaborate on improving the tools.

Design, build, and maintain rigs for characters, creatures, and props that meet project

needs

Develop deformation systems (muscle, skin, cloth, hair/fur) to achieve levels of realism

as required.

Collaborate with modelers to ensure geometry and topology are rig-ready and

deformation-friendly.

Work with animators to create intuitive, efficient control systems that support expressive

performances.

Troubleshoot rigging, skinning, and deformation issues during production and provide

timely fixes.

Write tools, scripts, and utilities (e.g., in Python or Maya API) to automate and streamline

rigging workflows.

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with USD format and tools

C++ programming experienceC++ programming experience

Minimum Qualifications

At least 5 years of experience working as a Rigger or Character Technical Director in

animation, VFX and/or video games

Expertise in using/extending/designing digital asset pipelines that can handle large-scale

character generation and customization such as for feature films and games.

Strong knowledge of character rigging principles, anatomy, and deformation.

Experienced Maya user

Experience with Maya, Houdini, or other DCC’s programming APIs

Strong Python scripting skills

Familiarity with muscle, cloth, hair/fur systems, and corrective blendshape workflows.

Problem-solving mindset and ability to balance animator needs with technical constraints.

Experience with hair/fur systems (e.g. XGen, Houdini Groom)

Skilled at modern human character modeling:

Digital sculpting, modeling, simulating, and command of mesh topology.

Understanding of shading, lighting, structure, texturing and materials.

Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant .