ASSISTANT PROFESSOR - Animation

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This is a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track faculty position responsible for contributing significantly to Stephen F. Austin State University's undergraduate and/or graduate programs through teaching, scholarship/creative accomplishment, and service. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the chair.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Performs an equivalent of twenty-four teaching load credits (TLC) for the combined fall and spring semesters; reduction of teaching load through reassignment of duties is possible under certain circumstances.2. Engages in research/scholarly/creative and service activities at levels that are appropriate to faculty rank and departmental tenure/merit criteria.3. Provides services to the university and the profession.4. Participates in promotion review of lower-ranked faculty members within the department.5. When tenured, participates in tenure review of candidates for tenure.6. May conduct supplemental instructional activities such as independent studies, internships, advising, and thesis/dissertation supervision.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. May receive course load reassignment when assigned administrative duties in support of the department/college/university.2. May receive course load reassignment when assigned to prepare course material during the first semester/year when included as part of initial contract.3. May receive course load reassignment when approved to conduct research/scholarly/creative accomplishment and service which exceed normal expectations.4. May supervise the work of student and/or graduate assistants.5. May serve on departmental, college, and university committees.6. Performs other related duties as assigned.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.1. Extensive knowledge in the field in which the individual will be teaching.2. Ability to effectively teach undergraduate and/or graduate students.3. Ability and commitment to conduct research and/or scholarly/creative accomplishments and service.4. Ability to work within a collaborative faculty environment.5. Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form.6. Ability to work effectively and patiently with students.

EDUCATION:

Terminal degree in the field in which the individual will be teaching is required. ABD candidates may be considered if Ph.D. is earned prior to start date.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

The rank of Assistant Professor is held by an individual who demonstrates the capability to produce research/scholarly/creative accomplishments, teach effectively, and provide service to the academic and general communities.

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS:

This nine-month position reports to the director and will primarily teach undergraduate and graduate animation courses. The course load will consist of three courses in the fall and three in the spring semesters. Additional duties include supervising graduate assistants and shared management of the animation lab.
The position requires a generalist approach to 3D animation with emphasis on technical and creative problem solving for animation short films and game environments.

Proficiency in 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, shading, lighting, and animation is required.
The ideal candidate will have the ability to teach 3D animation and demonstrate proficiency in working within game engines.
Knowledge of and ability in the following programming languages and domain applications is required:

• Python, pymel, and/or C++
• Virtual Production
• Motion Tracking

Software expertise in two or more of the following is required: Blender, Maya, 3DS Max, Houdini, Unreal Engine, Unity, Cinema 4D, Zbrush, Nuke, Katana, Mari, Substance Painter.
If not listed, include additional software in the optional document.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master of Fine Arts in animation or a related field.
Two years of teaching experience in higher education for animation or a related field is preferred.

Candidates with out-of-discipline terminal degrees should clearly articulate their ability to teach and conduct research in computer generated imagery with an animation focus.