What is a CG Producer?
A CG (Computer Graphics) Producer is responsible for managing various areas of visual effects production, relating to bidding, scheduling, resource planning, production management and the overall departmental budget.
What is the job?
As a CG Producer, you’ll be in charge of all things CG, and so you need to have a deep understanding of the pipelines, techniques and workflows involved. The responsibilities and duties you are given will vary depending on the studio you are working for. For example, in some studios you will have to help the CG Supervisor in building the teams and managing other aspects of the project.
A CG Producer you will work closely with the VFX Producer, who will usually work in a more client-facing role, to ensure that the end client is happy with the timing and quality of the work that is being completed.
Key Skills
- Excellent understanding of computer animation and the VFX pipeline.
- Experience managing production budgets.
- Good communicator.
- Highly organised.
- Good team player.
- Ability to lead people.
- Ability to work under pressure.
Salary & Working Hours
The working hours for a CG Producer are likely to be 9am-5pm most of the time, but this will ultimately depend on the studio you are working for. Some studios may have flexible hours, and some studios may require you to work later or work at the weekend, particularly if there are upcoming deadlines for the projects you’re working on. In terms of salaries, this will again depend on the studio you are working for, the types of projects you are working on, and your level of skills and experience.
How To Become a CG Producer
In order to become a CG Producer, you’ll need extensive experience working in CG (computer graphics) or at least in another area of VFX. As the role of CG Producer is quite a senior role, it’s highly important that you have experience behind you in order for employers to consider you as a potential candidate.
A relevant degree can be useful to provide you with the basic skills and knowledge that you need for this role, so a degree in any relevant area such as computer design or animation is certainly helpful.
On top of this, taking courses in areas such as Computer Animation or other VFX areas will all allow you to improve your skills and knowledge, making you more attractive to potential employers. Different studios look for different skills and will require you to carry out different duties, so it’s a good idea to look at job advertisements to see which areas you need to improve on.
Where Can It Take You?
As a CG Producer, there is the opportunity to develop and become a CG Supervisor. This role will entail more responsibility and more duties, so if you’re looking for something with a bit more work to the role then this is something you can work towards. On top of this, there is the opportunity that as you gain more experience you will become more recognised as a skilled CG Producer, and therefore may be required to work on bigger and better projects.
Become a CG Producer
If you are ready for the next step in your career, why not take a look at the latest CG Producer vacancies on our jobs board? You can view our latest vacancies here.