Pros
Other than being able to work with a crew of hardworking, talented artists... There isn't much else.
Cons
You are contracted to work 50 hours a week, sometimes more, for a weekly rate. My advice to any incoming employees; Calculate your hourly wage by dividing your weekly sum by 55! They say that overtime is only calculated into your paycheck after 50 hours, this is a lie. Your weekly rate is the sum of 40 hours plus 10 hours overtime. The average wage for an entry-level Atlanta Animator is around $18-$20 an hour. Do not expect a raise or bonus during your time here either. Beware of time off! You are told that you only have to spend 10 hours for one day. Again, because of how they calculate your weekly rate, you actually have to spend 11 hours. Keep in mind you only get 7 hours a month. Past employees have also been pressured to spend vacation hours before being let go so management doesn't have to pay them out. If you are asked to spend hours close to the end of a production cycle, ignore it. Only expect to work 6-7 months out of the year, do not buy into the false promises that more work will come to keep you from having to take unpaid leave. I suggest if you get laid off once, look elsewhere and do not waste your time waiting to get back in. This cycle has been repeating itself since the branch was founded. If you have a family to support; I highly discourage you from working here. Fair warning. If you are someone who desperately needs the experience; Take what you can for your resume and bail. This studio is nothing more than a stepping stone to more promising job opportunities in the industry. Avoid signing long term leases if you have to relocate.
