Since 1991, JumpStart® has set the standard in kids’ learning games by creating the finest educational products for use in the home and classroom. Today, JumpStart designs and produces games under two primary brands, JumpStart® and Math Blaster®. Each of these brands boasts hundreds of awards and an impressive twenty year history of quality products that have earned the trust of millions of parents. With games available online, on the Nintendo DS™, Nintendo Wii™, iPad™ and by download, JumpStart games are offered on the platforms today’s kids love most. But what really sets JumpStart apart is the unique combination of learning and entertainment built into each game. Find out more about how JumpStart turns learning into an adventure at, www.JumpStart.com,www.MathBlaster.com, www.SuperSecret.com and www.EatMyDust.com.
Highlights...
- Accomplished CEO, David Lord (bio) took position in 2008, and has led a successful pivot from retail to online/mobile games company over the past 4 years.
- New strategic investor and Partner (DreamWorks SKG) will license globally recognized brands/titles for JumpStart to build games around.
- Significant sales, $20M+ in 2012.
- Over 20 million customers and quickly becoming a leader in education and mobile gaming.
- 130 employees+: 40+ in Los Angeles and 90+ in India.
- International reach (translated into 4 languages, and adding more).
THE OPPORTUNITY:
The 2D artist creates scenes, storyboards, concept sketches, game screen interfaces and textures for the 2D and 3D environments used in our products. The Illustrator draws and/or renders the product he or she creates and exhibits a command of color, design, composition, perspective and lighting techniques.
Artistic Skills
- Possess strong drawing and painting skills, knowledge of perspective, layout, composition, color theory and the capacity to execute a variety of styles. Painting skills also include the ability to render scenes and create textures.
- Produce artwork of the highest quality which is creative, inviting and enhances the appeal of our software.
- Draw storyboards and layouts providing the necessary research.
- Follow template and model sheets set by Lead Artist.
Technical Skills
- Demonstrate proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator.
- Work on the PC and/or Mac platforms.
- Use the computer to access information, do word-processing and data analysis.
- Possess knowledge of processes, technical constraints and emerging technologies.
- Utilize production tools efficiently and successfully.
- Demonstrate overall technical proficiency.
- Create careful, consistent, thorough work so that published product will be accurate and technically efficient.
- Be considered additionally qualified if he or she understands the 3D environment and how to develop art for on-line and the web.
Management Skills
- Pursue tasks efficiently and meet deadlines both as an individual and team member.
- Consult frequently with Lead Artist and/or Art Director to assure the appropriateness of his or her work.
- Support the teamwork and collaborative efforts of the department and the company.
- Perform tasks and solve problems promptly and accurately.
- Understand priorities and use time wisely; always work first on the things that make the greatest difference.
- Respond quickly to a wide variety of tasks.
- Work with little or no supervision once priorities are set.
Communication, Interpersonal, and Organizational Skills
- Possess strong, clear written and oral communication skills.
- Capable of working in a positive and collaborative manner with other team members.
- Successfully communicate problems in meeting deadlines to Lead Artist and/or Art Director and keep them informed when available for additional work.
- Perform a variety of tasks, solve problems and work with calm independence under pressure.
- Create art assets, use network files folders and work in the office in an organized fashion.
- Maintain discretion while handling confidential information.
- Promote the morale of the department by example and maintaining a positive attitude.
- Follow and adhere to the employment procedures and policies outlined in the Employee Handbook.
REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS
- EDUCATION: Bachelor Degree in an Art-Related field is preferred.
- EXPERIENCE:
- A portfolio and/or demo reel is required at interview time.
- Prior experience in multimedia development and management.
- A background in Illustration is required.
- Experience working with out-of-house clients is a plus.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
- Highly responsible, self-motivated and able to thrive in an energetic, fast-paced, creative environment.
- Strong work ethic and the ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment.
- Hands-on; completes tasks and dependable; proactive in nature.
- Knows what needs to be done and operates with a sense of urgency, focus and discipline.
- Has excellent communication skills (written, verbal, presentation and interpersonal).
- Team player, with a strong sense of ownership and a 'get things done' attitude.
- Detailed oriented person, who is very meticulous about their work.
- Passionate about gaming, online gaming or education/trivia games!
- A sunny personality, a good sense of humor and above all, ethical, fair and of high integrity.
WHY JUMPSTART?
- We offer a competitive compensation + equity/stock options + full benefits (medical/dental/vision/life).
- Fully stocked kitchen.
- Centrally located in Torrance.
- Be part of a fun, fast-paced and collaborative team focused on building games that educate and entertain today’s youth.