Freelance Animation Artist — Hyper-Real Creatures

RodeoFX; United States; Remote; USD 65,000 - 148,000; Part time

Job summary

Rodeo FX in the United States is seeking a Freelance Animation Artist to deliver high-end, hyper-realistic performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects. You will collaborate with the Animation Lead and Supervisor to ensure shots align with artistic vision, timing, and deadlines while staying within pipeline standards.

With 6+ years in a VFX or animation studio, you bring strong Maya skills, a solid understanding of body mechanics and facial animation, and an ability to animate

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years in a VFX or animation studio.
• Proficient in Maya; other animation tools a plus.
• Solid understanding of body mechanics and facial animation.
• Ability to animate from reference and build compelling acting performances.
• High attention to detail, autonomy, and ability to manage deadlines effectively.
• Positive, collaborative mindset and strong communication skills.
• Asset: Experience with ShotGrid or other production tracking tools.
• Asset: Knowledge of rigging fundamentals or custom tool development.

Responsibilities

• Deliver polished animation work meeting creative intent and production specifications.
• Demonstrate a solid grasp of animation principles—timing, weight, arcs, and posing—across different performance styles.
• Adapt quickly to varying animation contexts (realistic creatures, mechanical objects, stylized characters).
• Interpret creative direction and reference materials to build nuanced and expressive performances.
• Propose original ideas and motion choices that enhance the storytelling and overall impact of the shot.
• Seek and integrate feedback constructively to elevate the quality of animation.
• Ensure animation is clean, functional, and export-ready for downstream departments.
• Anticipate and troubleshoot rigging or scene-related issues in collaboration with technical teams.
• Maintain naming conventions, file structures, and technical requirements as per pipeline standards.
• Provide realistic time estimates, communicate promptly in case of issues or potential delays, and collaborate with production to adjust priorities if needed.
• Maintain open communication with production, leads, and adjacent departments to support smooth handoffs and problem-solving.
• Flag roadblocks proactively and propose viable solutions when technical or creative issues arise.
• Participate actively in dailies and reviews, clearly presenting work and responding to notes.
• Engage in learning sessions, studio initiatives, or internal mentorship programs.
• Stay current with evolving trends, software, and animation methodologies to refine your practice.

Skills

Acting performance

Communication

Deadline management

Tools

Maya

ShotGrid

Rigging basics

Job description

Rodeo FX in the United States is seeking a Freelance Animation Artist to deliver high-end, hyper-realistic performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects. You will collaborate with the Animation Lead and Supervisor to ensure shots align with artistic vision, timing, and deadlines while staying within pipeline standards.

With 6+ years in a VFX or animation studio, you bring strong Maya skills, a solid understanding of body mechanics and facial animation, and an ability to animate