Animatronic Surface/Integration Designer

LF Studios / LifeFormations; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

LifeFormations in Cincinnati designs and fabricates animatronic figures, sculpted elements, exhibits and interactive experiences for parks, museums, and entertainment spaces worldwide.

We are seeking a Designer or skilled 3D modeler to bring our characters to life and to deliver production‑ready assets. Collaboration with mechanical and production teams is essential in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in product development and design.
• Proficient with 3D modeling and design thinking.
• Ability to iteratively solve problems and adapt to feedback.
• Proactive, multi‑project capability in a fast‑paced environment.
• Able to follow art direction from supervisors and clients.

Responsibilities

• Design integration of surfaces to structures, mechanisms, soft goods, etc.
• Prepare models informed by real‑world mechanical designs.
• Design exterior surfaces of animatronics using 3D and 2D tools.
• Provide 3D assets ready for additive or subtractive processes.
• Maintain communication with mechanical and production teams.

Skills

3D modeling

Product development

Design thinking

Iterative problem solving

Proactive mindset

Tools

Solidworks

Rhino

Photoshop

ZBrush

Job description

LifeFormations specializes in the design and fabrication of animatronic figures, sculpted elements, exhibits, and interactive experiences. Our work can be found in leading theme parks, museums, science centers, and entertainment spaces all over the world. We are seeking a Designer or skillful 3D modeler to help bring our figures and characters to life in Cincinnati, Ohio.

As a member of our design team, your primary roles would be:

• Design integration of composite surfaces to structures, mechanisms, soft goods, etc.
• To prepare models informed by real-world mechanical designs.
• Daily responsibilities will include designing the exterior surfaces of animatronics utilizing both 3D and 2D programs.
• You will provide our production team with 3D assets ready for Additive or Subtractive processes.
• You will maintain constant communication with our mechanical and production teams.

Requirements

• Applicant must have experience with product development and design, 3D modeling, and design thinking.
• Experience in Solidworks, Rhino, and Photoshop or equivalent is a must.
• Experience with ZBrush is a plus.
• An iterative and creative approach to problem-solving.
• Proactive, willing to work on multiple projects at any given time within a fast-paced, energetic environment.
• Ability to make necessary adjustments quickly while complying with art direction from their supervisor and clients.
• Knowledge of mesh modeling vs solid modeling.
• Experience with 3D printing.Understanding molding and casting is a plus.
• Mechanical inclination a plus.
• Willingness to follow design all the way through production and problem-solve with team members when obstacles arise.
• Ability to be hands‑on with designed parts and troubleshoot any design flaws.

Job Type: Full-time