Senior Animator

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Hybrid work model

Continuous learning opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, is seeking a Senior Animator to lead high-quality 2D/3D animation across features, shorts, and games. You will shape motion, timing, and storytelling, collaborating with directors and peers to realize artistic visions.

The role requires a strong portfolio, proficiency in industry tools, and the ability to mentor juniors while delivering on tight production timelines. Hybrid work setup supports balance and creative collaboration.

Qualifications

• Proven professional experience as an Animator with a strong portfolio.
• Proficiency in Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, Toon Boom Harmony, or Adobe Animate.
• Solid understanding of animation principles: timing, spacing, squash and stretch, anticipation.
• Experience with rigging, character setup, and possibly motion capture cleanup.
• Strong artistic foundation in drawing, anatomy and perspective.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills and ability to take direction.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet production deadlines.
• Bachelor's degree in Animation, Fine Arts, Computer Graphics, or related field, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

• Create high-quality 2D and/or 3D animations for features, shorts, games, or other entertainment productions.
• Animate characters, objects, and environments with a strong understanding of motion, timing, and physics.
• Collaborate with directors, art leads, and other animators to achieve the desired artistic vision.
• Develop and refine animation techniques and workflows.
• Provide constructive feedback to junior animators and contribute to team-wide skill development.
• Ensure animation assets meet technical requirements for integration into the production pipeline.
• Troubleshoot and solve animation-related technical challenges.
• Contribute to the storyboarding and pre-visualization process when required.
• Maintain a high level of artistic quality and consistency throughout projects.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in animation software and techniques.

Skills

Character animation

Storytelling

Animation software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Animation or related field

Tools

Maya

Blender

3ds Max

Toon Boom Harmony

Adobe Animate

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the arts and entertainment industry, is seeking an exceptionally talented Senior Animator to join their prestigious studio in Welkom, Free State . This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced animator to contribute their skills to cutting-edge projects, bringing characters and stories to life with breathtaking visuals. We are looking for a creative individual with a keen eye for movement, form, and storytelling. You will work alongside a team of dedicated artists, pushing the boundaries of animated artistry. If you are passionate about creating dynamic and engaging animated content and thrive in a collaborative environment. Your work in Welkom will play a crucial role in captivating audiences worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Create high-quality 2D and/or 3D animations for features, shorts, games, or other entertainment productions.
• Animate characters, objects, and environments with a strong understanding of motion, timing, and physics.
• Collaborate with directors, art leads, and other animators to achieve the desired artistic vision.
• Develop and refine animation techniques and workflows.
• Provide constructive feedback to junior animators and contribute to team-wide skill development.
• Ensure animation assets meet technical requirements for integration into the production pipeline.
• Troubleshoot and solve animation-related technical challenges.
• Contribute to the storyboarding and pre-visualization process when required.
• Maintain a high level of artistic quality and consistency throughout projects.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in animation software and techniques.

Requirements

• Proven professional experience as an Animator, with a strong portfolio showcasing excellent character animation and storytelling skills.
• Proficiency in industry-standard animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender, 3ds Max, Toon Boom Harmony, Adobe Animate).
• Solid understanding of animation principles, including timing, spacing, squash and stretch, and anticipation.
• Experience with rigging, character setup, and potentially motion capture data cleanup is a plus.
• Strong artistic foundation, including drawing, anatomy, and perspective.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to take direction and provide constructive feedback.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet production deadlines.
• A passion for animation and the broader arts and entertainment industry.
• Bachelor's degree in Animation, Fine Arts, Computer Graphics, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and generous paid time off. Employees have access to continuous learning and development opportunities, including workshops and industry conferences. You will work in a state-of-the-art facility in Welkom , surrounded by a talented and supportive team. This hybrid role allows for a flexible work-life balance. We foster a creative and inspiring work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized. Join our client and be part of creating visually stunning entertainment experiences.