Blue Zoo Animation Studio – 3D Character Animator (Entry Level)

Festybay; Brighton; Hybrid; GBP 21,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Profit share for long-term employees

Regular social events

Job summary

A leading UK animation studio is seeking an entry-level 3D Character Animator to bring characters to life with expressive performances. As part of the animation team, you will craft engaging animations, manage project timelines, and work collaboratively to meet creative goals. Ideal candidates have a strong grasp of animation principles and tools like Autodesk Maya, alongside a problem-solving attitude and a passion for learning. Flexible working arrangements are available, and the studio is renowned for its committed, inclusive culture.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of body mechanics, posing, and character performance.
• Solid working knowledge of Autodesk Maya (or similar 3D software).
• Openness to feedback and strong communication skills.
• Excellent time management and prioritization abilities.
• A collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Creative problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with other animators and the Animation Director.
• Deliver story-driven animations aligned with project tone.
• Manage time efficiently to meet deadlines.
• Clearly communicate story ideas and acting choices from blocking to final polish.
• Take feedback constructively and implement notes effectively.

Skills

Strong understanding of body mechanics

Solid working knowledge of Autodesk Maya

Openness to feedback

Excellent time management

Collaborative mindset

Creative problem-solving skills

Tools

Autodesk Maya

FTrack

Python

MEL scripting

Job description

3D Character Animator – Entry Level
Studio: Blue Zoo Animation Studio
Location: Brighton / Hybrid (UK-based)
Department: 3D Animation
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Salary: Competitive, based on experience

About the Role

Blue Zoo Animation Studio is looking for entry-level 3D Character Animators who can bring characters to life through expressive and engaging performances. As a Junior Animator, you’ll contribute to projects filled with personality, humor, and heart — supporting the Director’s creative vision and delivering to client expectations.

Your day-to-day will involve crafting characterful performances with great timing, charm, and storytelling clarity. You’ll work collaboratively within the animation team, taking direction, applying feedback, and continuously developing your craft.

Start Dates: December 2025 & January 2026

We’re open to flexible, hybrid, and remote working arrangements. However, applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK and ideally live within commuting distance of our Brighton Zoo studio. Please note — applications may close early if we receive a large volume of candidates.

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with other animators, Team Leads, and the Animation Director.
• Deliver expressive, story-driven animations that align with the project’s tone and narrative.
• Manage time efficiently to meet shot deadlines and production schedules.
• Clearly communicate story ideas and acting choices from blocking to final polish.
• Take feedback constructively and implement notes effectively.

About You

Must Have:

• Strong understanding of body mechanics, posing, and character performance.
• Solid working knowledge of Autodesk Maya (or similar 3D software).
• Openness to feedback and strong communication skills.
• Excellent time management and prioritization abilities.
• A collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
• Creative problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn.

Bonus Skills:

• Basic Python or MEL scripting knowledge.
• Drawing, acting, or dance skills that enhance performance understanding.
• Familiarity with FTrack or similar production tracking tools.

About Blue Zoo Animation Studio

Founded in 2000, Blue Zoo is one of the UK’s leading animation studios — home to award-winning CG projects and celebrated for its bold, characterful storytelling. Over the years, we’ve earned multiple BAFTAs, an Annie Award, and an Emmy, building a reputation for creative excellence and a people-first culture.

We’re proud to be the first major animation studio in the world to achieve B Corp certification, recognizing our ongoing efforts to improve the wellbeing of our employees, industry, and community.

As we continue to grow, we’re building a studio filled with talented, happy artists who love what they do and contribute to making the world a little brighter through their work.

• Recognized as one of Broadcast’s Best Places to Work in TV (2019, 2020, 2022, 2024, 2025).
• Inclusive, self-funded shorts programme.
• Fun, regular in-person and virtual social events.
• Bi-monthly employee feedback sessions and engagement programs.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including discounts and wellbeing initiatives.
• Profit share for long-term employees (2+ years).
• A culture built on inclusion, respect, and creativity.

At Blue Zoo, we’re committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong. We celebrate individuality and encourage every team member to bring their full selves to work.

If you’re an enthusiastic, creative, and motivated animator ready to learn and grow with one of the UK’s most respected studios — we’d love to hear from you.

Join Blue Zoo and help us create animation that makes the world smile.