Lead Technical Animator

Framestore Limited; Montreal; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading animation studio in Montreal seeks a Lead Technical Animator to guide a dedicated team focused on enhancing animation workflows. The successful candidate will combine strong technical skills with leadership abilities, facilitating effective communication. Responsibilities include managing technical animation assignments, supporting artists, and improving toolsets. Experience in Maya and team leadership is essential for this role. Competitive compensation and inclusivity in the workplace are offered.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of Maya and experience in Animating characters.
• Experience with Mel/Python scripting and tool development.
• Ability to lead a team and manage Technical Animation assignments.

Responsibilities

• Assign crew and manage tasks for team members.
• Work with multiple departments to improve communication.
• Support Animation Artists in troubleshooting assets.

Skills

Strong communication and organizational skills

Knowledge of Maya

Knowledge of Modelling and Rigging

Experience in Mel/Python scripting

Experience in Wiki documentations

Understanding of physical motion

Experience in leading a team

Problem-solving skills

Tools

Maya

Jira

Confluence

Job description

Overview

Please note that we are currently only accepting speculative applications

We’re looking for a Lead Technical Animator to join our Montreal studio and guide a small, dedicated team focused on supporting the Animation Department by providing the technical foundation that enables animators to work faster, smarter, and more creatively. The role encompasses technical animation and tool development for the Animation team, including Maya-based shot fixes, tool support, testing, and visual enhancements with lights or FX cards. The ideal candidate will combine strong technical expertise with a solid foundation in animation principles and will excel at clear, effective communication. This role requires a proactive mindset, a passion for overcoming challenges, and the ability to bridge the gap between creative vision and technical execution.

What you’ll do

• Leadership responsibilities including assigning crew, ensuring appropriate show casting, allocation of tasks on team members, and acting as key contact for production and supervisor.
• Working closely with Leads of multiple departments, including Rigging and FX to improve communication lines in and out of the Animation department.
• Working closely with Pipeline Developers in testing, releasing new and modified software systems, and guiding them on errors and debugging technical issues
• Animating both primary and secondary characters and elements
• Providing front-line support to Animation Artists, troubleshooting assets and shots, and helping artists with general problem-solving
• Establish workflow templates, approach, and methods documentation to provide to the team
• Manage and spec Technical Animation assignments
• Meeting schedules and show deadlines
• Ensure that department tools are available to the team and properly set up for each show
• Work alongside the training team to follow through on learning and development needs for the Animation Team and assist with any related events as appropriate
• Inform HOD of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows

What we’re looking for

• Strong communication and organizational skills
• A thorough knowledge of Maya
• A working knowledge of Modelling and Rigging
• Experience in Mel/Python scripting and developing, supporting and testing tools
• Experience in Wiki documentations and using ticketing systems
• An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture, and form
• An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines, and transferring data between tools
• Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills
• A love of puzzles and problem solving
• Experience in leading a team

You might also have

• Previous experience in a similar role
• Experience as a CG Animator
• A traditional animation and/or art background
• Experience in Cloth, FX or Tracking
• Experience in Jira and Confluence

Accessibility Statement

Our Montreal studio has universal access, with step-free entry, accessible toilets, and quiet spaces available. We are committed to providing an inclusive workplace for everyone and continue to improve accessibility to ensure all employees feel supported.

Application Process

To apply, please complete the linked application form or submit your resume and portfolio to [e-mail] with the subject line: Lead Technical Animator - Montreal

We review all applications manually and do not use artificial intelligence to screen candidates. If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please let us know—we are happy to accommodate your needs.

Framestore is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.