Lead Animator (3D)

Placements24; Benoni; Hybride; ZAR 700 000 - 1 000 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Career development

Résumé du poste

Placements24's client, a cutting-edge animation studio in Benoni, seeks an exceptionally talented Lead Animator (3D) to guide a creative team and bring characters to life with dynamic motion for films, TV, and games.

You will set the animation quality bar, mentor juniors, oversee the pipeline from blocking to polish, and collaborate with directors to realize the artistic vision in a hybrid Benoni studio.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animation or related field.
• 8+ years of 3D character animation experience, with leadership exposure.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating weight, timing and performance.

Responsabilités

• Lead a team of 3D animators with clear direction and feedback.
• Define and maintain animation style and quality standards.
• Oversee animation pipeline from blocking to final polish and integration.
• Collaborate with directors and department leads to achieve the creative vision.
• Mentor junior animators and drive skill development.
• Ensure on-time delivery of high-quality animation sequences.

Connaissances

3D character animation

Leadership

Maya/Blender/3ds Max

Hybrid work

Formation

Bachelor's in Animation

Outils

Maya

Blender

3ds Max

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge animation studio located in Benoni , is seeking an exceptionally talented Lead Animator (3D) to guide and inspire their creative team. This role is instrumental in bringing characters and environments to life with dynamic and believable motion for various projects, including feature films, television series, and video games. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of animation principles, exceptional artistic skill, and strong leadership qualities. You will be responsible for setting the animation quality bar, mentoring junior animators, and ensuring the timely delivery of high‑quality animated sequences. Join our client and play a key role in shaping visually stunning narratives within the thriving entertainment industry of Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 3D animators, providing clear direction, feedback, and technical support to ensure high-quality animation output.
• Define and maintain the animation style and quality standards for projects in accordance with artistic direction.
• Oversee the entire animation pipeline, from blocking and splining to final polish and integration.
• Collaborate closely with directors, art directors, and other department leads to achieve the creative vision.
• Develop and implement animation techniques and workflows to improve efficiency and quality.
• Review and approve animation shots, providing constructive criticism and guidance to animators.
• Troubleshoot complex animation challenges and develop innovative solutions.
• Mentor and train junior animators, fostering their skill development and career growth.
• Ensure animation is delivered on schedule and meets project deadlines.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in 3D animation software, techniques, and industry trends.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Animation, Fine Arts, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in 3D character animation, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• A strong portfolio showcasing exceptional character animation skills, demonstrating a deep understanding of weight, timing, and performance.
• Proficiency in industry-standard 3D animation software such as Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max.
• Experience with motion capture cleanup and integration is a plus.
• Excellent understanding of anatomy, physics, and acting principles as applied to animation.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to provide clear and constructive feedback to a team.
• Proven problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Must be able to work effectively in a hybrid environment, with regular attendance required at the Benoni studio.
• A passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits plan. This position provides the opportunity to lead exciting projects and shape the visual output of a leading animation studio. You will work in a creative and collaborative environment with state-of-the-art technology. Enjoy opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the company. Be part of a team that creates engaging and memorable animated content enjoyed by audiences worldwide, located conveniently in Benoni .