Are you ready to become the technical heartbeat of motion capture for the studio that defines the visual effects industry? Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), a division of Lucasfilm and The Walt Disney Company, is seeking a Lead Motion Editor to join our team at the Lacon House studio in London. This is more than a data management role; it is a leadership position where you will act as the primary point of contact for performance capture excellence. You will guide the next generation of cinematic movement, ensuring that the nuances of an actor's performance are translated seamlessly into the digital world. At ILM, you aren't just editing motion; you are refining the soul of the characters that populate the most iconic film franchises in history. Position Overview: Lead Motion Editor Category Details Company Name Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) / The Walt Disney Company Job Title Lead Motion Editor Job Type Full-Time / Permanent Location London, United Kingdom (Lacon House, Holborn) Work Mode Hybrid (Minimum 2 days on-site per week) Estimated Salary £75,000 - £105,000 (Based on seniority, tenure, and project scope) Primary Software Maya, MotionBuilder, Vicon Shogun, Blender, Nuance Department Motion Edit / Animation Key Focus Retargeting, Motion Blending, Team Mentorship Job Summary The Lead Motion Editor is a pivotal role within the ILM London pipeline, collaborating directly with the Motion Edit Supervisor to ensure the department operates with surgical precision. Your primary objective is to execute non destructive retargeting and refinement of realistic motion capture data. You will take the raw energy of a performance and polish it until it meets the "ILM Standard"-the highest quality benchmark in global VFX. While the focus remains predominantly on human characters and digital doubles, your expertise will extend to props, bipedal creatures, and occasionally quadrupeds. Beyond the technical execution, you will be the "driving spirit" of the team, fostering a culture of mentorship and continuous skill development for our junior and mid level artists. Expert Retargeting: Take full responsibility for transferring complex motion from one skeletal hierarchy to another with total proficiency, ensuring that the original intent of the performance is preserved. Performance Refinement: Adhere strictly to the actor's performance while enhancing it in a non destructive manner. This includes adding finger, toe, and tail animation, and adjusting body posture, gesture, and weight to ground the character in its environment. Motion Blending: Utilize a sharp eye and deep technical understanding of motion workflows to create fluid, believable transitions between distinct animation clips. Leadership & Mentorship: Lead the team on major projects, providing expert troubleshooting and proactive mentorship to junior members. You will be responsible for ensuring technical excellence across the board. Workflow Innovation: Develop new methodologies and refactor existing workflows to increase efficiency. You will stay ahead of the curve by identifying and troubleshooting technical bottlenecks before they impact production. Supervisory Support: Take charge of "dailies" and technical requests when the Supervisor is unavailable, ensuring the project remains on schedule without a drop in quality. What We're Looking For: Qualifications VFX Pedigree: Proven professional experience in high end feature film VFX. We require an up-to-date showreel that demonstrates a mastery of realistic motion. Technical Mastery: Proficient knowledge of retargeting and blending techniques. You should be an expert in Maya and MotionBuilder, with additional experience in Blender or Nuance being highly desirable. Anatomical Eye: A sharp eye for motion, timing, and posture. You understand the physics of movement and how weight distribution affects the realism of a digital asset. Problem Solving: A proactive attitude toward identifying and resolving technical issues within a Linux based environment. Communication: Exceptional collaborative skills. You must be able to translate complex technical needs into actionable creative feedback for your team and show supervisors. Preferred Skills & Bonus Experience Background in using Vicon Shogun Post. Experience working within a Linux environment. A foundational understanding of the principles of traditional animation to better inform motion capture cleanup. Previous experience leading small teams or acting as a "Key" artist on major sequences. Industry Statistics & Diversity Data As part of our commitment to transparency and the evolution of the VFX industry, we track the demographics of the UK creative sector to ensure we are fostering an inclusive environment. Gender Representation: In the UK VFX industry, women currently hold approximately 34% of technical and creative roles. ILM is dedicated to closing this gap, particularly in leadership positions like the Lead Motion Editor role. Ethnic Diversity: Recent industry reports indicate that approximately 18% to 20% of the London VFX workforce identifies as Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic (BAME). At ILM, we actively leverage our Employee Resource Groups, such as MOSAIC, to ensure our studio reflects the global audience we serve. Global Talent: Our London studio is a hub for international talent, with over 45 nationalities working together. We provide a culture where diverse perspectives are considered the fuel for our innovation. About Industrial Light & Magic To apply, please submit: 1. A Current Resume: Detailing your experience and software proficiencies. 2. Demo Reel & Shot Breakdown: Specifically showcasing your motion edit, retargeting, and blending work. Please explain your specific role in each shot. ILM (UK) Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, and create the best stories.
10/05/2026
Full time
Are you ready to become the technical heartbeat of motion capture for the studio that defines the visual effects industry? Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), a division of Lucasfilm and The Walt Disney Company, is seeking a Lead Motion Editor to join our team at the Lacon House studio in London. This is more than a data management role; it is a leadership position where you will act as the primary point of contact for performance capture excellence. You will guide the next generation of cinematic movement, ensuring that the nuances of an actor's performance are translated seamlessly into the digital world. At ILM, you aren't just editing motion; you are refining the soul of the characters that populate the most iconic film franchises in history. Position Overview: Lead Motion Editor Category Details Company Name Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) / The Walt Disney Company Job Title Lead Motion Editor Job Type Full-Time / Permanent Location London, United Kingdom (Lacon House, Holborn) Work Mode Hybrid (Minimum 2 days on-site per week) Estimated Salary £75,000 - £105,000 (Based on seniority, tenure, and project scope) Primary Software Maya, MotionBuilder, Vicon Shogun, Blender, Nuance Department Motion Edit / Animation Key Focus Retargeting, Motion Blending, Team Mentorship Job Summary The Lead Motion Editor is a pivotal role within the ILM London pipeline, collaborating directly with the Motion Edit Supervisor to ensure the department operates with surgical precision. Your primary objective is to execute non destructive retargeting and refinement of realistic motion capture data. You will take the raw energy of a performance and polish it until it meets the "ILM Standard"-the highest quality benchmark in global VFX. While the focus remains predominantly on human characters and digital doubles, your expertise will extend to props, bipedal creatures, and occasionally quadrupeds. Beyond the technical execution, you will be the "driving spirit" of the team, fostering a culture of mentorship and continuous skill development for our junior and mid level artists. Expert Retargeting: Take full responsibility for transferring complex motion from one skeletal hierarchy to another with total proficiency, ensuring that the original intent of the performance is preserved. Performance Refinement: Adhere strictly to the actor's performance while enhancing it in a non destructive manner. This includes adding finger, toe, and tail animation, and adjusting body posture, gesture, and weight to ground the character in its environment. Motion Blending: Utilize a sharp eye and deep technical understanding of motion workflows to create fluid, believable transitions between distinct animation clips. Leadership & Mentorship: Lead the team on major projects, providing expert troubleshooting and proactive mentorship to junior members. You will be responsible for ensuring technical excellence across the board. Workflow Innovation: Develop new methodologies and refactor existing workflows to increase efficiency. You will stay ahead of the curve by identifying and troubleshooting technical bottlenecks before they impact production. Supervisory Support: Take charge of "dailies" and technical requests when the Supervisor is unavailable, ensuring the project remains on schedule without a drop in quality. What We're Looking For: Qualifications VFX Pedigree: Proven professional experience in high end feature film VFX. We require an up-to-date showreel that demonstrates a mastery of realistic motion. Technical Mastery: Proficient knowledge of retargeting and blending techniques. You should be an expert in Maya and MotionBuilder, with additional experience in Blender or Nuance being highly desirable. Anatomical Eye: A sharp eye for motion, timing, and posture. You understand the physics of movement and how weight distribution affects the realism of a digital asset. Problem Solving: A proactive attitude toward identifying and resolving technical issues within a Linux based environment. Communication: Exceptional collaborative skills. You must be able to translate complex technical needs into actionable creative feedback for your team and show supervisors. Preferred Skills & Bonus Experience Background in using Vicon Shogun Post. Experience working within a Linux environment. A foundational understanding of the principles of traditional animation to better inform motion capture cleanup. Previous experience leading small teams or acting as a "Key" artist on major sequences. Industry Statistics & Diversity Data As part of our commitment to transparency and the evolution of the VFX industry, we track the demographics of the UK creative sector to ensure we are fostering an inclusive environment. Gender Representation: In the UK VFX industry, women currently hold approximately 34% of technical and creative roles. ILM is dedicated to closing this gap, particularly in leadership positions like the Lead Motion Editor role. Ethnic Diversity: Recent industry reports indicate that approximately 18% to 20% of the London VFX workforce identifies as Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic (BAME). At ILM, we actively leverage our Employee Resource Groups, such as MOSAIC, to ensure our studio reflects the global audience we serve. Global Talent: Our London studio is a hub for international talent, with over 45 nationalities working together. We provide a culture where diverse perspectives are considered the fuel for our innovation. About Industrial Light & Magic To apply, please submit: 1. A Current Resume: Detailing your experience and software proficiencies. 2. Demo Reel & Shot Breakdown: Specifically showcasing your motion edit, retargeting, and blending work. Please explain your specific role in each shot. ILM (UK) Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer. We foster a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, and create the best stories.
A leading visual effects company in London is looking for a Lead Motion Editor to lead performance capture for iconic film franchises. In this pivotal role, you will refine motion-capture data while mentoring junior artists. Your expertise in tools like Maya and MotionBuilder will help maintain the highest quality standards across projects. This position offers a hybrid work model with an estimated salary of £75,000 - £105,000 based on seniority and experience.
10/05/2026
Full time
A leading visual effects company in London is looking for a Lead Motion Editor to lead performance capture for iconic film franchises. In this pivotal role, you will refine motion-capture data while mentoring junior artists. Your expertise in tools like Maya and MotionBuilder will help maintain the highest quality standards across projects. This position offers a hybrid work model with an estimated salary of £75,000 - £105,000 based on seniority and experience.
Rebellion is seeking a highly skilled Senior QA Analyst to join our world-class quality assurance team. This is more than a testing role; we are looking for a "master of game quality" who can anticipate risks, visualize complex system interactions, and lead a squad toward the flawless release of our next generation of titles. As a stalwart of the UK games industry for over 30 years, Rebellion offers an environment where your technical expertise directly impacts millions of players worldwide. Whether you are based in our riverside Oxford HQ or our creative studio in Warwick, you will be part of a team that values independence, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence. Job Overview: Senior QA Analyst Company Name Rebellion Position Title Senior QA Analyst Department Quality Assurance Locations Oxford or Warwick, UK (Hybrid Options Available) Employment Type Full-time Salary Range £42,000 - £55,000 (Commensurate with seniority and experience) Relocation Full Support Package (Moving assistance & temporary accommodation) Work Rights Permanent Right to Work in the UK Required About Rebellion Rebellion is a unique entity in the global creative landscape. Founded by Jason and Chris Kingsley, we have spent three decades as a fiercely independent developer and publisher of legendary video games. However, our reach extends far beyond the digital realm. We own a film studio, produce board games, and through our 2000 AD brand, we publish world-renowned comics and graphic novels, including the iconic Judge Dredd. Our size and stability allow us to maintain complete creative freedom. When you work at Rebellion, you are working for a "Big Indie" that prioritizes its people. We believe that a representative and diverse team creates better products, and we foster an inclusive atmosphere where your talent is supported by a healthy work-life balance. As a Senior QA Analyst, you do not just follow a checklist; you own the quality roadmap. You are expected to see the "whole map," identifying potential traps in game design and technical implementation before they reach production. You will be a systemic thinker who understands that no feature exists in isolation. Your role is to bridge the gap between creative intent and technical execution, ensuring that the final product is stable, polished, and ready for a global audience. Furthermore, you will serve as a beacon for the junior members of the squad, leveling up the team through mentorship and process refinement. Comprehensive Coverage: Architect robust, detailed test plans for every game feature. You must account for all logic paths, edge cases, and "sneaky combos" that could disrupt the player experience. Risk Mitigation: Proactively hunt for risks before they hit production. You are expected to identify where systems might break and advocate for fixes early in the development cycle. Systemic Analysis: Visualize how new features interact across the entire game ecosystem. You will ensure that a change in one area does not cause a cascade of failures in another. Squad Guidance: Lead and mentor a team of QA testers, sharing your deep industry knowledge to help them improve their technical skills. Process Evolution: Constantly look for ways to sharpen our QA processes. You will help implement new tools and methodologies to increase efficiency and accuracy. Knowledge Resource: Serve as the go-to expert for the team on complex technical issues or specific game systems. Cross-Department Liaison: Communicate clearly and professionally with Designers, Developers, and Producers. You must be able to translate complex technical bugs into actionable reports that the dev team can address immediately. Visibility: Ensure that production has a clear view of the "state of the game" at all times, providing honest and data-driven assessments of project stability. Professional Requirements (About You) Technical & Experience Profile: Industry Veteran: You have a proven track record of QA experience specifically within the video games industry. Autonomous Architect: You can craft high-level test plans from scratch without needing a pre-defined guide or template. Analytical Mindset: You think beyond the "golden path." You naturally search for edge cases and potential system failures. Mentorship History: You have experience guiding others and a passion for helping a team reach its full potential. Soft Skills: Confident Communicator: The ability to explain "the why" behind a bug or risk to stakeholders of all technical levels. Team-Centric: A collaborative spirit that thrives in an open-plan, innovative environment. Passion for Quality: A genuine desire to ship games that are not just functional, but exceptional. We offer a comprehensive package designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health. Benefit Category Details Paid Time Off 22 days + Christmas Closure + Bank Holidays. Increases annually after 5 years up to 31 days. Health & Vision Private Medical Insurance, healthcare cash plan, dental, and vision coverage. Financial Protection Life Assurance, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Cover. Family & Loans Enhanced Family Leave and Interest-Free/Tax-Free loans. Retirement Enhanced Pension Scheme for long-term security. Wellbeing Access to EAP (Employee Assistance Program) and mental health support. Perks Social events, tuck shop, free hot drinks, and a wide range of local discounts. Life at Our Studios Oxford HQ: Our riverside office is a short walk from the city center, offering a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. Excellent rail links connect you to London, Birmingham, and Manchester, and we offer free on-site parking. Warwick Studio: A creative hub nestled in a historic town, providing a relaxed yet highly productive atmosphere for our development teams. Hybrid Flexibility: While we value face-to-face collaboration to drive innovation, we are open to discussing hybrid work arrangements to suit your individual needs. Rebellion is an equal opportunity employer. We are actively recruiting for a diverse team because we know that representative demographics make for better products. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including neurodivergent individuals and those from underrepresented groups. Right to Work: Please note that this role is only open to applicants with the permanent right to work in the UK. Rebellion is unable to provide or take over visa sponsorship at this time.
10/05/2026
Full time
Rebellion is seeking a highly skilled Senior QA Analyst to join our world-class quality assurance team. This is more than a testing role; we are looking for a "master of game quality" who can anticipate risks, visualize complex system interactions, and lead a squad toward the flawless release of our next generation of titles. As a stalwart of the UK games industry for over 30 years, Rebellion offers an environment where your technical expertise directly impacts millions of players worldwide. Whether you are based in our riverside Oxford HQ or our creative studio in Warwick, you will be part of a team that values independence, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence. Job Overview: Senior QA Analyst Company Name Rebellion Position Title Senior QA Analyst Department Quality Assurance Locations Oxford or Warwick, UK (Hybrid Options Available) Employment Type Full-time Salary Range £42,000 - £55,000 (Commensurate with seniority and experience) Relocation Full Support Package (Moving assistance & temporary accommodation) Work Rights Permanent Right to Work in the UK Required About Rebellion Rebellion is a unique entity in the global creative landscape. Founded by Jason and Chris Kingsley, we have spent three decades as a fiercely independent developer and publisher of legendary video games. However, our reach extends far beyond the digital realm. We own a film studio, produce board games, and through our 2000 AD brand, we publish world-renowned comics and graphic novels, including the iconic Judge Dredd. Our size and stability allow us to maintain complete creative freedom. When you work at Rebellion, you are working for a "Big Indie" that prioritizes its people. We believe that a representative and diverse team creates better products, and we foster an inclusive atmosphere where your talent is supported by a healthy work-life balance. As a Senior QA Analyst, you do not just follow a checklist; you own the quality roadmap. You are expected to see the "whole map," identifying potential traps in game design and technical implementation before they reach production. You will be a systemic thinker who understands that no feature exists in isolation. Your role is to bridge the gap between creative intent and technical execution, ensuring that the final product is stable, polished, and ready for a global audience. Furthermore, you will serve as a beacon for the junior members of the squad, leveling up the team through mentorship and process refinement. Comprehensive Coverage: Architect robust, detailed test plans for every game feature. You must account for all logic paths, edge cases, and "sneaky combos" that could disrupt the player experience. Risk Mitigation: Proactively hunt for risks before they hit production. You are expected to identify where systems might break and advocate for fixes early in the development cycle. Systemic Analysis: Visualize how new features interact across the entire game ecosystem. You will ensure that a change in one area does not cause a cascade of failures in another. Squad Guidance: Lead and mentor a team of QA testers, sharing your deep industry knowledge to help them improve their technical skills. Process Evolution: Constantly look for ways to sharpen our QA processes. You will help implement new tools and methodologies to increase efficiency and accuracy. Knowledge Resource: Serve as the go-to expert for the team on complex technical issues or specific game systems. Cross-Department Liaison: Communicate clearly and professionally with Designers, Developers, and Producers. You must be able to translate complex technical bugs into actionable reports that the dev team can address immediately. Visibility: Ensure that production has a clear view of the "state of the game" at all times, providing honest and data-driven assessments of project stability. Professional Requirements (About You) Technical & Experience Profile: Industry Veteran: You have a proven track record of QA experience specifically within the video games industry. Autonomous Architect: You can craft high-level test plans from scratch without needing a pre-defined guide or template. Analytical Mindset: You think beyond the "golden path." You naturally search for edge cases and potential system failures. Mentorship History: You have experience guiding others and a passion for helping a team reach its full potential. Soft Skills: Confident Communicator: The ability to explain "the why" behind a bug or risk to stakeholders of all technical levels. Team-Centric: A collaborative spirit that thrives in an open-plan, innovative environment. Passion for Quality: A genuine desire to ship games that are not just functional, but exceptional. We offer a comprehensive package designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health. Benefit Category Details Paid Time Off 22 days + Christmas Closure + Bank Holidays. Increases annually after 5 years up to 31 days. Health & Vision Private Medical Insurance, healthcare cash plan, dental, and vision coverage. Financial Protection Life Assurance, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Cover. Family & Loans Enhanced Family Leave and Interest-Free/Tax-Free loans. Retirement Enhanced Pension Scheme for long-term security. Wellbeing Access to EAP (Employee Assistance Program) and mental health support. Perks Social events, tuck shop, free hot drinks, and a wide range of local discounts. Life at Our Studios Oxford HQ: Our riverside office is a short walk from the city center, offering a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. Excellent rail links connect you to London, Birmingham, and Manchester, and we offer free on-site parking. Warwick Studio: A creative hub nestled in a historic town, providing a relaxed yet highly productive atmosphere for our development teams. Hybrid Flexibility: While we value face-to-face collaboration to drive innovation, we are open to discussing hybrid work arrangements to suit your individual needs. Rebellion is an equal opportunity employer. We are actively recruiting for a diverse team because we know that representative demographics make for better products. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including neurodivergent individuals and those from underrepresented groups. Right to Work: Please note that this role is only open to applicants with the permanent right to work in the UK. Rebellion is unable to provide or take over visa sponsorship at this time.
A leading game development company in Oxford is seeking a highly skilled Senior QA Analyst to join their quality assurance team. The role involves architecting detailed test plans, mentoring QA testers, and ensuring game stability before release. Candidates should have a strong background in video game QA, excellent communication skills, and the ability to lead a team effectively. The position offers a competitive salary and hybrid working arrangements.
10/05/2026
Full time
A leading game development company in Oxford is seeking a highly skilled Senior QA Analyst to join their quality assurance team. The role involves architecting detailed test plans, mentoring QA testers, and ensuring game stability before release. Candidates should have a strong background in video game QA, excellent communication skills, and the ability to lead a team effectively. The position offers a competitive salary and hybrid working arrangements.
Blue Zoo Animation Studio is seeking a visually gifted and technically proficient 3D Layout Artist to join our team for an expansive and high-end CG TV series. This role is a perfect match for a digital cinematographer who lives for visual storytelling, camera choreography, and the art of the perfect frame. At Blue Zoo, you won't just be placing assets; you will be the architect of the viewer's perspective, bridging the gap between storyboards and final animation. As a B Corp certified studio, we offer a unique environment where your creative growth is balanced with a genuine commitment to ethical standards and employee well-being. This position is a UK-based opportunity, welcoming talent from across the country to join our London hub or work remotely via our flexible hybrid model. Job Overview : 3D Layout Artist Entity Details Company Name Blue Zoo Animation Studio Position 3D Layout Artist Vacancy Type Fixed Term Contract Location London / Hybrid / UK Remote Salary Range £35,000 - £50,000 Per Annum (Pro-rata; DOE) Eligibility Must have Right to Work in the UK Primary Software Autodesk Maya & Adobe Photoshop Studio Status B Corp Certified & Multi-BAFTA Winning The Mission: Visual Storytelling & Previsualisation The 3D Layout Artist is a pivotal role in our pipeline. You are the first to translate 2D vision into 3D space. Working alongside the Director and Animation Supervisor, you will take episodic animatics and breathe life into them through rough and polished layouts. You are responsible for the staging, blocking, and cinematography that define the series' visual language. You will navigate the intersection of technical pipeline management and high-level artistic composition. Your goal is to create scene setups that are not only visually stunning but also technically "clean" and ready for our animators to take to the finish line. Key Responsibilities & Day-to-Day Impact Scene Assembly: Build comprehensive scene setups in Maya, aligning with approved client Animatics. You will collaborate with the Art Director and CG Supervisors to ensure environments and assets are placed correctly for the camera. Initial Staging: Define the initial character staging and blocking. You ensure that the spatial relationships between characters and their environment support the narrative beats of the script. Rough to Polished Layouts: Create rough layouts for timing and composition, then refine them into polished shots that incorporate 3D assets, lighting cues, and final camera movements. Camera Choreography: Refine final camera movements to achieve the desired cinematic feel. This includes managing lens choices, camera depth of field, and dynamic movements (pans, tilts, tracks). Feedback Integration: Adapt and iterate on camera setups based on Director critiques. You must be able to translate abstract creative notes into precise technical adjustments. 2D/3D Integration: Assemble hybrid layouts using 2D color cards and graphics to represent background elements or special visual cues, ensuring the Director's vision is clear even in the pre-viz stage. Department Liaison: Work closely with Storyboard artists to interpret their vision and with the Animation department to ensure the layouts you provide are technically sound and efficient for their workflow. Workflow Maintenance: Ensure all scenes function within the required pipeline setups, managing asset layers and references to prevent downstream technical issues. Candidate Profile: What We Are Looking For 3D Layout Artist Blue Zoo Animation Studio is looking for an artist who watches films with an eye for the "how" and "why" behind every shot. You should have a deep-rooted passion for filmmaking and a portfolio that demonstrates a mastery of the digital camera. Core Requirements (Must Have) Technical Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Autodesk Maya for scene setup and Adobe Photoshop for asset preparation and color-card creation. Cinematic Intuition: A robust understanding of cinematography, including composition, perspective, lens kits, and the "rule of thirds." You know how to use the camera to create atmosphere and emotion. Animation Timing: A keen sense of pacing and timing. You understand how the rhythm of the camera interacts with character performance. Pipeline Knowledge: Familiarity with the CG animation pipeline. You know how data flows from Assets to Layout and finally to Animation and Lighting. Professionalism: The ability to work independently and manage your own schedule while remaining a proactive, communicative team player. You stay calm under pressure and respond constructively to feedback. Bonus Points (Standing Out) Gaming Background: Experience in video game cinematography or real-time layout (Unreal/Unity). Post-Production Skills: Basic knowledge of compositing in Nuke or After Effects to help visualize final shot looks. Broad Interests: A genuine passion for the evolution of animation and filmmaking. The Blue Zoo Experience: Why Join Us? Blue Zoo Animation Studio is more than just a studio; it is a community of creators who believe that a happy artist is a productive artist. Our B Corp status means we are legally committed to social and environmental responsibility. Our Culture of Excellence Best Places to Work: We have been recognized by Broadcast as one of the Best Places to Work in TV consistently from 2019 through 2026. B Corp Integrity: We are independently verified by B Lab, ensuring we meet 170+ rigorous metrics regarding the treatment of our staff, our local community, and our environment. The Shorts Programme: Every year, we fund internal short films. This program is open to everyone-not just directors. It's a chance to experiment with new techniques and see your name in the credits of a film that might just win an Annie or a BAFTA. Financial Wellbeing: Participation in our Profit Share scheme (for those with 2+ years of service) and a comprehensive benefits package with various discounts. Mental Health & Wellness: Access to an online wellbeing program and a supportive internal culture that values work-life balance. Engagement: Bi-monthly employee feedback sessions ensure that the studio evolves based on your input. Social Life: We host numerous fun social events, both in-person and digital, to ensure our remote and hybrid staff stay connected. About Blue Zoo Animation Studio Founded in 2000, Blue Zoo has grown from a small group of friends into the UK's leading dedicated CG animation studio. Our work spans from beloved preschool series to high-octane advertising and cinematic short films. We pride ourselves on creating "bold, fun, and characterful" animation. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion means we invite everyone to "bring their whole selves to work," fostering an environment where fresh perspectives are celebrated and respected. How to Apply Please submit your CV and a link to your Layout Showreel. Your reel should clearly demonstrate your ability to handle camera movement, staging, and composition. Please include a breakdown of your work, specifying your contribution to each shot (e.g., staging, camera animation, asset placement). Note: This vacancy may close early if we receive a high number of applications, so early submission is highly encouraged. We look forward to seeing your vision! 3D Layout Artist job at Blue Zoo Animation Studio, UK
06/05/2026
Full time
Blue Zoo Animation Studio is seeking a visually gifted and technically proficient 3D Layout Artist to join our team for an expansive and high-end CG TV series. This role is a perfect match for a digital cinematographer who lives for visual storytelling, camera choreography, and the art of the perfect frame. At Blue Zoo, you won't just be placing assets; you will be the architect of the viewer's perspective, bridging the gap between storyboards and final animation. As a B Corp certified studio, we offer a unique environment where your creative growth is balanced with a genuine commitment to ethical standards and employee well-being. This position is a UK-based opportunity, welcoming talent from across the country to join our London hub or work remotely via our flexible hybrid model. Job Overview : 3D Layout Artist Entity Details Company Name Blue Zoo Animation Studio Position 3D Layout Artist Vacancy Type Fixed Term Contract Location London / Hybrid / UK Remote Salary Range £35,000 - £50,000 Per Annum (Pro-rata; DOE) Eligibility Must have Right to Work in the UK Primary Software Autodesk Maya & Adobe Photoshop Studio Status B Corp Certified & Multi-BAFTA Winning The Mission: Visual Storytelling & Previsualisation The 3D Layout Artist is a pivotal role in our pipeline. You are the first to translate 2D vision into 3D space. Working alongside the Director and Animation Supervisor, you will take episodic animatics and breathe life into them through rough and polished layouts. You are responsible for the staging, blocking, and cinematography that define the series' visual language. You will navigate the intersection of technical pipeline management and high-level artistic composition. Your goal is to create scene setups that are not only visually stunning but also technically "clean" and ready for our animators to take to the finish line. Key Responsibilities & Day-to-Day Impact Scene Assembly: Build comprehensive scene setups in Maya, aligning with approved client Animatics. You will collaborate with the Art Director and CG Supervisors to ensure environments and assets are placed correctly for the camera. Initial Staging: Define the initial character staging and blocking. You ensure that the spatial relationships between characters and their environment support the narrative beats of the script. Rough to Polished Layouts: Create rough layouts for timing and composition, then refine them into polished shots that incorporate 3D assets, lighting cues, and final camera movements. Camera Choreography: Refine final camera movements to achieve the desired cinematic feel. This includes managing lens choices, camera depth of field, and dynamic movements (pans, tilts, tracks). Feedback Integration: Adapt and iterate on camera setups based on Director critiques. You must be able to translate abstract creative notes into precise technical adjustments. 2D/3D Integration: Assemble hybrid layouts using 2D color cards and graphics to represent background elements or special visual cues, ensuring the Director's vision is clear even in the pre-viz stage. Department Liaison: Work closely with Storyboard artists to interpret their vision and with the Animation department to ensure the layouts you provide are technically sound and efficient for their workflow. Workflow Maintenance: Ensure all scenes function within the required pipeline setups, managing asset layers and references to prevent downstream technical issues. Candidate Profile: What We Are Looking For 3D Layout Artist Blue Zoo Animation Studio is looking for an artist who watches films with an eye for the "how" and "why" behind every shot. You should have a deep-rooted passion for filmmaking and a portfolio that demonstrates a mastery of the digital camera. Core Requirements (Must Have) Technical Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Autodesk Maya for scene setup and Adobe Photoshop for asset preparation and color-card creation. Cinematic Intuition: A robust understanding of cinematography, including composition, perspective, lens kits, and the "rule of thirds." You know how to use the camera to create atmosphere and emotion. Animation Timing: A keen sense of pacing and timing. You understand how the rhythm of the camera interacts with character performance. Pipeline Knowledge: Familiarity with the CG animation pipeline. You know how data flows from Assets to Layout and finally to Animation and Lighting. Professionalism: The ability to work independently and manage your own schedule while remaining a proactive, communicative team player. You stay calm under pressure and respond constructively to feedback. Bonus Points (Standing Out) Gaming Background: Experience in video game cinematography or real-time layout (Unreal/Unity). Post-Production Skills: Basic knowledge of compositing in Nuke or After Effects to help visualize final shot looks. Broad Interests: A genuine passion for the evolution of animation and filmmaking. The Blue Zoo Experience: Why Join Us? Blue Zoo Animation Studio is more than just a studio; it is a community of creators who believe that a happy artist is a productive artist. Our B Corp status means we are legally committed to social and environmental responsibility. Our Culture of Excellence Best Places to Work: We have been recognized by Broadcast as one of the Best Places to Work in TV consistently from 2019 through 2026. B Corp Integrity: We are independently verified by B Lab, ensuring we meet 170+ rigorous metrics regarding the treatment of our staff, our local community, and our environment. The Shorts Programme: Every year, we fund internal short films. This program is open to everyone-not just directors. It's a chance to experiment with new techniques and see your name in the credits of a film that might just win an Annie or a BAFTA. Financial Wellbeing: Participation in our Profit Share scheme (for those with 2+ years of service) and a comprehensive benefits package with various discounts. Mental Health & Wellness: Access to an online wellbeing program and a supportive internal culture that values work-life balance. Engagement: Bi-monthly employee feedback sessions ensure that the studio evolves based on your input. Social Life: We host numerous fun social events, both in-person and digital, to ensure our remote and hybrid staff stay connected. About Blue Zoo Animation Studio Founded in 2000, Blue Zoo has grown from a small group of friends into the UK's leading dedicated CG animation studio. Our work spans from beloved preschool series to high-octane advertising and cinematic short films. We pride ourselves on creating "bold, fun, and characterful" animation. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion means we invite everyone to "bring their whole selves to work," fostering an environment where fresh perspectives are celebrated and respected. How to Apply Please submit your CV and a link to your Layout Showreel. Your reel should clearly demonstrate your ability to handle camera movement, staging, and composition. Please include a breakdown of your work, specifying your contribution to each shot (e.g., staging, camera animation, asset placement). Note: This vacancy may close early if we receive a high number of applications, so early submission is highly encouraged. We look forward to seeing your vision! 3D Layout Artist job at Blue Zoo Animation Studio, UK