About the role
Project Overview
Join the Stirling Animation Studio team on a Magic Light Pictures' Special. The studio is particularly keen to connect with Scotland-based artists and has a preference for artists based regionally within the UK (outside the M25).
About the Role
The studio is seeking a Lead CG Animator to join at an early stage of an exciting new animated high-end CG TV special. Working in Maya, a significant part of the early role involves rig testing, animation tests, cycle and library development, and production. The Lead will work closely with rigging and creative teams to test characters, identify animation challenges, and establish an animation approach that is practical for production and true to the visual style. Once the team is established, the role transitions to a hands-on leadership position, working alongside Directors to provide creative direction, feedback, and support, while continuing to animate key shots and sequences. The show's animation will be worked on 2s to maintain a stop-motion style within a CG workflow. The role reports to the Animation Director.
Responsibilities
- Join the production during the early development phase and help establish the animation approach and workflow.
- Carry out rig testing and animation tests in Maya, identifying issues and opportunities for improvement.
- Work closely with the rigging team to test character rigs for range of motion, usability, deformation, posing, and animation requirements.
- Develop and produce character cycles, including walks, runs, idles, and other reusable animation assets, establishing the movement language for the production.
- Develop animation tests and style samples to help communicate and define the creative direction.
- Identify potential animation and pipeline issues early and work collaboratively with other departments to resolve them.
- Help establish animation workflows, standards, and best practices for the wider animation team.
- Lead and support a team of CG animators, providing clear creative direction, feedback, and day-to-day guidance.
- Attend all Director reviews and feedback sessions to provide consistent and clear creative direction.
- Animate key shots and sequences to a high standard, leading by example.
- Review animation throughout the production process, providing constructive notes and ensuring work meets creative and technical standards.
- Work primarily on 2s, using timing, spacing, posing, and performance to create an authentic stop-motion feel within a CG pipeline.
- Maintain consistency of character movement, scale, weight, and personality across shots and sequences.
- Collaborate closely with the Animation Director and other departments to develop and deliver sequences.
- Onboard, support, and mentor animators to ensure consistent application of the show's style.
- Communicate clearly with production and other departments regarding progress, priorities, and issues.
- Help ensure animation is delivered on schedule while maintaining a high level of quality.
Requirements
- Proven professional experience as a CG Animator, ideally with experience in a Lead or Senior animation role.
- Experience working on feature animation, TV specials, or other high-quality long-form animation productions.
- Strong portfolio/showreel demonstrating excellent character animation, performance, and understanding of animation principles, particularly in similar styles.
- Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to give clear, constructive feedback.
- A proactive, practical approach to problem-solving, particularly during early production stages.
- Comfortable working collaboratively across departments and helping shape workflows.
- Strong proficiency in Autodesk Maya and a solid understanding of CG animation and production workflows.
- Experience with, or strong understanding of, character rig testing and animation development.
- Experience creating character cycles and reusable animation assets.
- Experience animating primarily on 2s, or a strong understanding of how stepped timing can be used effectively.
- Ability to balance expressive, entertaining animation with believable physicality and weight.
Logistics and Terms
- Location: Fully remote or Scotland-based artists may work hybrid from the studio in Stirling.
- Contract Type: Freelance contract.
- Duration: Early November 2026 until August 2027.
- Hours: Standard studio hours are 7 working hours a day (typically 10am to 6pm), Monday to Friday. Flexible working hours are open for discussion on an individual basis.
- Access Requirements: The studio is committed to an inclusive and accessible working environment and is open to discussing individual access requirements throughout the recruitment process.
Application Requirements
- Provide a CV or LinkedIn profile.
- Include a link to a portfolio/showreel (provide password if required).
- Alternate formats such as video or audio files are accepted (under 2 minutes).
- The studio deletes shared details after 12 months.