Lead Character Animator (3D)

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Access to cutting-edge tools

Professional development

Creative, collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Character Animator (3D) to guide a team of animators on upcoming features. You will define animation style, ensure consistency, and deliver compelling performances that drive storytelling.

The role combines studio collaboration in the Welkom area with flexible remote workdays, offering leadership in a creatively demanding environment.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in 3D character animation for film/TV/games.
• 2+ years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating performance, timing, and appeal.
• Proficient with Maya, Blender or similar tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of 3D character animators to top quality.
• Oversee animation from blocking to final polish per directorial vision.
• Collaborate with directors and supervisors to set and maintain style.
• Review dailies, give actionable feedback, solve animation challenges.
• Develop pipelines, tools and workflows to boost efficiency.

Skills

3D character animation

Team leadership

Mentoring

Character performance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Animation

Tools

Maya

Blender

Job description

About the Role Our client, a renowned animation studio celebrated for its captivating character performances and visual storytelling, is seeking an experienced Lead Character Animator (3D). This critical leadership role will guide a team of talented animators in bringing complex characters to life for our upcoming feature film projects. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of animation principles, exceptional artistic talent, and a proven ability to mentor and inspire others. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending collaborative studio time in Welkom with flexible remote workdays. You will be instrumental in defining the animation style, ensuring consistency, and delivering top-tier character performances that drive the narrative. Join a passionate team dedicated to artistic excellence and innovation in the animation industry. We are committed to fostering an environment where creativity thrives, and animators can push their skills to new heights. This is a fantastic opportunity to leave your mark on visually stunning productions that reach global audiences. Your leadership will be key to the success of our character animation department.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of 3D character animators to achieve exceptional artistic quality and performance.
• Oversee the animation process from blocking to final polish, ensuring adherence to animation principles, character bibles, and directorial vision.
• Collaborate closely with directors, supervisors, and other department leads to establish and maintain the animation style and quality bar for projects.
• Review animation dailies, provide constructive feedback, and guide animators to achieve desired results.
• Solve complex animation challenges, developing innovative solutions for character performance, rigging integration, and motion capture cleanup.
• Develop and implement animation pipelines, tools, and workflows to improve efficiency and artistic output.
• Create high-quality character animation sequences yourself, setting the benchmark for the team.
• Ensure timely delivery of animation assets according to production schedules and milestones.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment, promoting skill-sharing and continuous learning among animators.
• Stay current with advancements in 3D animation software, techniques, and industry trends.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in 3D character animation for film, television, or games, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating exceptional character animation skills, including performance, weight, timing, and appeal, across various character types.
• Expert proficiency with industry-standard 3D animation software such as Maya, Blender, or similar.
• In-depth knowledge of animation principles, anatomy, body mechanics, and acting for animation.
• Proven experience in leading and motivating creative teams, providing clear direction and constructive feedback.
• Excellent understanding of the entire animation pipeline, from modeling and rigging to final rendering.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a keen eye for detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate creative ideas and technical feedback.
• Experience with hybrid work models and effective remote collaboration tools.
• Bachelor's degree in Animation, Fine Arts, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and leadership skills.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between Welkom studio and remote work.
• Opportunity to work on exciting, high-profile animated features.
• Access to cutting-edge animation technology and software.
• Professional development and growth opportunities within a leading studio.
• Collaborative and creative work environment.
• Regular performance feedback and career pathing discussions.