Freelance: Animator - New York

Framestore Limited; Grimsby; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a talented Animator to join their dynamic team. In this freelance role, you will create captivating keyframe animations that enhance storytelling and engage audiences. Your expertise in Maya and understanding of animation principles will be crucial as you collaborate with leads and supervisors to meet deadlines and produce high-quality work. This position offers the chance to work in a supportive environment that values creativity and collaboration, making it an exciting opportunity for those passionate about animation. If you're ready to bring characters to life and contribute to compelling narratives, this role is for you!

Qualifications

• Experience in animation with expertise in Maya.
• Strong understanding of motion, weight, and balance.

Responsibilities

• Animate primary and secondary characters and elements.
• Maintain communication with Production regarding schedules.

Skills

Animation

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Time Management

Collaboration

Tools

Maya

Mel/Python scripting

Job description

This is a freelance position within the New York team. Candidates must be available from roughly June 9, 2025 - October 31, 2025, and able to work a hybrid schedule with 1-2 office days per week on average. Ideal candidates will be based in the New York area, and must have valid US work authorization.

As an Animator at Framestore, you will work closely with our Animation Leads and Supervisors to produce high-quality keyframe animation that creates compelling, story-driven, and action-packed moments that fit within the style and pacing of the show.

We're looking for someone who can animate both primary and secondary characters and elements, meet schedules and deadlines, and work efficiently as part of a team or independently to complete assigned shots. You'll need excellent communication and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the proven ability to work under pressure.

What you’ll do

• Animate both primary and secondary characters and elements
• Maintain ongoing communication with Production and Leads regarding schedules and deadlines
• Work efficiently as part of a team, or independently, to complete assigned shots
• Submit shots for review and follow through with notes and feedback if required

Minimum Requirements

• Previous experience in a similar role with Maya expertise
• Strong understanding of motion, weight, balance, texture, and form
• Knowledge of animation pipelines and rigging setups
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Open to direction, adaptable, and collaborative within teams
• Strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills
• Reliable with good timekeeping and organizational abilities
• Willingness to learn new processes and technical skills
• Resident of New York at time of hire
• Must have valid US work authorization

You might also have

• A working knowledge of Modeling, Rigging, and Mel/Python scripting
• Previous experience working with motion capture data
• Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skill

New York Employees Pay Range:

Juniors (<1 year - 3 years experience): $25 - $35 per hour
Mids (4 - 6 years experience): $400 - $550 per day
Seniors (6+ years of experience): $600 - $900 per day

The posted range describes the minimum to maximum range for this job description in the state of New York. The range is posted in accordance with the New York Pay Transparency Bill. The range for this same position may be lower or higher in markets outside of New York City. Pay is dependent on the applicant's relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.

Accessibility Statement

Our New York studio is fully accessible, with step-free entry, accessible toilets on all floors, and quiet spaces available. We are committed to supporting disabled colleagues and providing an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Application Process

To apply, please complete the following application form.

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.