Brown Bag Films, one of the world’s most exciting and creatively driven animation studios, is seeking a Senior Character Modeller to join its elite CG team in Dublin. Known for the motto “We Love Animation™,” Brown Bag Films places artists at the core of its operations, producing award-winning content for global audiences.

As a Senior Character Modeller, you are responsible for the physical realization of a project’s artistic vision. You will transform 2D concepts and Art Director feedback into high-quality, stylized 3D maquettes. This role requires a master-level balance of aesthetic “appeal” and technical “rigidity,” ensuring that every character not only looks stunning but is also perfectly optimized for the riggers and animators who follow in the pipeline.

Detailed Role Responsibilities

The Senior Character Modeller acts as a bridge between the Art Department and the Technical Animation pipeline. Your daily workflow will involve a mix of high-fidelity sculpting, technical optimization, and leadership through feedback.

1. Digital Sculpting & Asset Creation

• Stylized Maquettes: Create 3D characters that capture the specific “appeal” and personality of the show’s style. You must be able to interpret 2D designs and translate them into balanced 3D forms.
• Asset Assembly: Beyond characters, you will model assembly assets and environments that match the character’s stylistic language.
• Blend Shape Sets: Design and execute complex facial blend shape sets. These must be artistically appealing while providing the functional range of motion required for expressive acting and lip-sync.

2. Technical Excellence & Optimization

• Advanced Retopology: Clean, efficient topology is non-negotiable. You will retopologize high-res sculpts into production-ready assets that deform perfectly during animation.
• Pipeline Adherence: Ensure all models meet the strict naming conventions and technical standards of the Brown Bag Films pipeline to prevent downstream errors.
• Technical Auditing: Review models and blend shapes delivered from external partners to ensure they meet the studio’s internal quality bar.

3. Leadership & External Management

• Outsource Direction: Provide clear, actionable “launch notes” and sculpt-overs to external studios. You will act as a mentor and director for off-site modeling teams.
• Artistic Collaboration: Work closely with Art Directors to establish the “look” of new productions and maintain that visual consistency throughout the character’s development.
• Strategic Reporting: Keep the Production team and the Head of Characters informed regarding any workflow bottlenecks or scheduling risks.

Candidate Requirements

Technical Proficiencies

• Software Mastery: Expert-level capabilities in Autodesk Maya and ZBrush are mandatory. You should be able to move fluidly between these programs to create both organic and hard-surface assets.
• Topology Logic: A thorough understanding of how edge flow affects rigging and animation. You must know where to place loops to support complex joint deformations.
• Specialized Knowledge: Experience with hair, fur, or cloth simulation setup is highly desirable and will set a candidate apart.

Experience & Background

• Senior-Level Pedigree: Proven experience in a high-volume studio environment, preferably within the kids’ and family entertainment sector.
• Remote/Outsource Management: Experience managing or reviewing the work of external vendors is a significant advantage.
• Studio Practice: A disciplined approach to file management, version control, and team communication.

Working at Brown Bag Films: Dublin Studio

The Hybrid Model

In 2026, Brown Bag Films continues to value the creative energy of in-person collaboration while offering the flexibility of remote work. The Dublin studio operates on a hybrid model, requiring a minimum of two days per week on-site. This allows artists to brainstorm in the studio while enjoying the focus time provided by working from home.

The Creative Culture

Dublin is the heart of Brown Bag’s creative operations. Joining this team means working alongside some of the industry’s most talented directors, designers, and technicians. The studio is famous for its inclusive culture and its commitment to “Artist-First” production management.

Salary & Contract Specifics

• Compensation: The salary range for this position is €42,785.00 – €51,000.00. Please note that as this is a 6-week fixed-term contract, the salary is calculated on a pro-rata basis.
• Duration: This is a focused, 6-week intensive contract. It is an excellent opportunity for a high-level freelancer to contribute to a major production or for an artist looking to transition into the Dublin animation scene.
• Eligibility: Candidates must have the legal right to work in Ireland. The studio cannot provide visa sponsorship for this specific short-term contract.

The Brown Bag Legacy

From its humble beginnings in 1994 to becoming a powerhouse in global animation, Brown Bag Films has produced some of the world’s most-watched children’s shows. By joining the team as a Senior Character Modeller, you become part of a legacy that includes multiple Emmy® and Academy Award® nominations. Whether the project is a 3D feature or a high-end episodic series, your work will be seen by millions of families worldwide.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare the following for submission:

1. Digital Portfolio/Showreel: Showcase your best-stylized character work. Include wireframe overlays to demonstrate your topology skills and examples of facial blend shapes.
2. Updated CV: Highlighting your experience with Maya, ZBrush, and any previous senior or lead-level responsibilities.
3. Cover Letter: Briefly explain your passion for stylized character modeling and your availability for the 6-week contract window.

Brown Bag Films is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.