Lead Animator (3D Character)

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Generous vacation

Career growth Cape Town

Creative environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Lead Animator specializing in 3D character animation to guide a talented team and elevate character performances across projects.

You will set animation quality standards, mentor artists, and influence both technical and artistic direction within a leading entertainment studio in Cape Town.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in 3D character animation with leadership exposure.
• Portfolio demonstrating high-quality character performances.
• Strong knowledge of animation principles and pipelines.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of 3D character animators with feedback and guidance.
• Maintain high standards for animation quality, performance and style.
• Oversee the animation pipeline for timely asset delivery.
• Collaborate with art directors, designers, and engineers on character behavior.
• Develop rigs, tools, and systems to boost productivity and creativity.
• Review work, identify improvements, and implement solutions.

Skills

8+ years experience

3D character animation

Leadership

Maya/Blender/3ds Max

Tools

Maya

Blender

3ds Max

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Animator specializing in 3D Character Animation to join their acclaimed studio in Cape Town . This leadership role is crucial for guiding the animation team to deliver exceptional character performances that bring virtual worlds to life. You will be responsible for setting the animation quality bar, mentoring artists, and ensuring the technical and artistic vision for character movement is realized across ambitious projects. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a passionate animator to influence the creative output of a leading entertainment studio in a beautiful city.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of 3D character animators, providing constructive feedback and technical guidance.
• Set and maintain the highest standards for character animation quality, performance, and style.
• Oversee the animation pipeline, ensuring efficient workflow and timely delivery of assets.
• Collaborate with art directors, game designers, and technical artists to achieve desired character behaviors and aesthetics.
• Develop and refine animation systems, rigs, and tools to enhance productivity and creativity.
• Review animation work, identify areas for improvement, and implement solutions.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in 3D character animation , with at least 2 years in a lead or senior capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in animation principles, body mechanics, and character performance.
• Proficiency with industry-standard animation software such as Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max.
• Strong understanding of character rigging and its impact on animation.
• Experience in a leadership role, including team management, feedback, and pipeline development.
• A compelling portfolio showcasing exceptional 3D character animation work.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary with potential for bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous vacation and paid time off policy.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development in Cape Town .
• A dynamic and creative work environment with a focus on innovation.