Freelance Animation Artist — Hyper-Real VFX

Rodeo FX; United States; Remote; USD 55,000 - 118,000; Part time

Job summary

Rodeo FX is seeking a Freelance Animation Artist to deliver high-end, hyper-realistic performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects. You will work with the Animation Lead and Supervisor to honor the project’s artistic vision, technical specifications, and deadlines.

With a minimum of 6 years in a VFX or animation studio, strong Maya skills, and a solid grasp of body mechanics, you will animate from reference and contribute to a dynamic team across multiple shows.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of experience in a VFX or animation studio environment.
• Strong proficiency in Maya; experience with other animation tools is a plus.
• Solid understanding of body mechanics, 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 that meets creative intent and production specs.
• 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.

Skills

Maya proficiency

Performance animation

Timeline and weight understanding

Collaboration

Tools

ShotGrid

Other animation tools

Rigging basics

Job description

Rodeo FX is seeking a Freelance Animation Artist to deliver high-end, hyper-realistic performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects. You will work with the Animation Lead and Supervisor to honor the project’s artistic vision, technical specifications, and deadlines.

With a minimum of 6 years in a VFX or animation studio, strong Maya skills, and a solid grasp of body mechanics, you will animate from reference and contribute to a dynamic team across multiple shows.