Company: LAIKA Studios

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: Stop Motion Animation Intern Job Type: Internship (Temporary) Location: Hillsboro, OR, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Current Junior/Senior or Recent Graduate (within 12 months) Salary Range: $20.00 per hour (Set rate, non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to Animation Supervisor Industry: Motion Pictures / Feature Film Animation Application Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026, by 6:00 PM PDT Company Overview: The Art and Science of LAIKA LAIKA Studios is not merely an animation studio; it is a world-class community of creators, innovators, and boundary-pushers located in Hillsboro, Oregon. For nearly two decades, LAIKA has redefined the medium of stop motion by seamlessly blending the hand-drawn, the handcrafted, and the high-tech. From the Academy Award-nominated Coraline and Kubo and the Two Strings to our most recent ambitious features, LAIKA is committed to telling stories that are as visually stunning as they are emotionally profound. At LAIKA Studios, every frame is an intentional act of artistry. LAIKA Studios is a place where traditional puppet-making meets 3D printing, and where physical sets coexist with digital world-building. We believe that “Impossible” is just a starting point. By joining LAIKA as an intern, you are entering an environment that values curiosity, meticulous precision, and the courage to take creative risks. You will be part of a workforce that respects every thumbprint on a character’s face as a testament to the human soul behind the craft. Role Overview The Stop Motion Animation Intern position at LAIKA Studios is a premier opportunity for emerging artists to gain hands-on production experience within a high-stakes, professional feature film environment. This is not a passive observation role; it is an active immersion into the rigors of stop motion performance. Under the guidance of LAIKA Studios’s renowned animation team, you will be supported and challenged to breathe life into inanimate puppets. You will learn the delicate balance between technical physics—such as weight, momentum, and resistance—and the nuanced acting required to define a character’s personality and emotion. This internship is designed for individuals who possess a deep-seated passion for the tactile nature of stop motion and a relentless drive for perfection in every frame. Key Responsibilities I. Performance Development & Animation Exercises Staging & Tests: Work on dedicated test stages to execute specific animated performances. These exercises focus on the “bread and butter” of animation: walk cycles, weight shifts, and the interaction between puppets and physical objects. Emotional Nuance: Learn to translate abstract emotions into physical gestures. You will assist in defining how a character “thinks” and “feels” through subtle micro-movements of the eyes, hands, and posture. Frame-by-Frame Execution: Master the capture software and physical manipulation techniques required to maintain a consistent, high-fidelity performance throughout a sequence. II. Technical Precision & Production Support Repetitive Excellence: Perform finely detailed animation tasks with unwavering precision for extended periods. Stop motion requires a high degree of mental and physical stamina; you will be expected to maintain focus over long shoot days. Stage Maintenance: Assist in the general organization and upkeep of work areas and animation stages. This includes ensuring that sets are clean, tools are accounted for, and puppets are handled with extreme care. Problem Solving: Identify mechanical issues with rigs or puppets during a shoot and work collaboratively with the puppet hospital or rigging teams to find swift solutions. III. Collaboration & Professional Growth Mentorship Engagement: Actively participate in reviews and dailies. You must be able to take constructive criticism from Animation Supervisors and apply technical and creative notes immediately. Team Synergy: Work effectively alongside other animators, set dressers, and camera technicians to ensure the overall production workflow remains efficient. Prioritization: Manage multiple tasks and deadlines, demonstrating an ability to work both independently and as part of a larger unit. Required and Preferred Qualifications Academic & Eligibility Requirements Academic Standing: Currently enrolled as a Junior or Senior in a college or university program, or a recent graduate who has completed their degree within the last 12 months. Focus of Study: A strong emphasis in Animation, Fine Arts, Illustration, or a related creative field that demonstrates an understanding of movement and composition. Legal Authorization: Must be able to work on-site in Hillsboro, OR. Core Artistic & Technical Skills Artistic Eye: A strong creative background with high aesthetic sensibilities. You should understand the principles of animation (squash and stretch, anticipation, timing) and how they apply to a physical 3D space. Attention to Detail: The ability to spot a 1mm deviation in a puppet’s position that could cause a “pop” in the final animation. Manual Dexterity: Excellent fine motor skills are required to manipulate delicate armatures and face plates without damaging the asset. Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for collaborating within LAIKA’s multi-departmental ecosystem. Physical Demands Stamina & Focus: Capability to stand or sit in constrained positions for several hours while manipulating sets and puppets. Visual Acuity: Ability to handle close-range vision tasks, distance vision, and frequent focus adjustments. Lifting: Ability to lift and/or move production equipment up to 15 pounds. Technical Tools & Software While the role is centered on physical performance, familiarity with the following tools is highly beneficial: Dragonframe: The industry standard for stop motion capture. Photography & Lighting: A foundational understanding of DSLR cameras and how light interacts with physical textures. Sculpting/Fabrication: A background in traditional sculpture or model-making to better understand the internal mechanics of a puppet. The LAIKA Internship Experience Interns at LAIKA Studios are not just “helpers”; they are valued members of the creative process. Renowned Expertise: You will benefit from the mentorship of artists who have won Emmy, Annie, and Academy Awards. Tactile Innovation: Access to a studio that is constantly innovating at the intersection of handmade art and digital technology. Fixed Compensation: A transparent, non-negotiable hourly rate of $20.00, providing a professional wage for your contributions to our production. Application Process & Portfolio Requirements Important Note: Applications without relevant samples/portfolios/reels will not be considered. LAIKA looks for candidates who can demonstrate a … Read more

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: RP 3D Printing Texture Intern Job Type: Internship (Full-Time / Temporary) Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Junior/Senior University Standing or Recent Graduate (within 12 months) Salary Range: USD $20.00 per hour (Fixed / Non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to RP Texture Lead / Digital Fabrication Supervisor Industry: Animation, Motion Pictures, and Additive Manufacturing Company Overview: The Fusion of Art and Technology LAIKA Studios is a world-renowned leader in the field of feature animation, celebrated for a unique cinematic signature that merges the time-honored tradition of stop-motion with the cutting-edge frontier of digital innovation. Located in Hillsboro, Oregon, we are a community of specialized artists, technologists, and innovators who believe that the best stories are told when hand-crafted artistry is empowered by revolutionary technology. A cornerstone of our production excellence is our Rapid Prototyping (RP) Department. We are pioneers in the use of high-definition 3D color printing to create facial expressions, characters, and environmental elements. Unlike traditional CG pipelines where textures exist only on a screen, our RP Texture team develops “digital paint” that is translated into tangible, physical objects through a complex color printing palette. We foster an environment of radical collaboration, where fine arts sensibilities meet advanced computer graphics to produce the award-winning detail our studio is known for globally. Role Overview The RP 3D Printing Texture Intern is a highly specialized role that sits at the intersection of digital surfacing and physical manufacturing. This internship is designed to provide “hands-on” production experience in the development of surface textures for animated characters, props, and environments specifically designed for 3D color printing. As an Texture intern, you will move beyond standard digital texturing and learn the nuances of subsurface color science and physical material behavior. You will be supported and challenged by industry leaders to take 2D designs and 3D maquettes and translate them into digital texture maps that maintain their aesthetic integrity once printed in 3D. This role is essential for achieving the lifelike detail required for feature-length stop-motion animation, requiring an artist who is as comfortable with a digital stylus as they are with a physical printed asset. Key Responsibilities and Production Duties The RP 3D Printing Texture Intern will be integrated into the daily workflow of the Rapid Prototyping department, contributing to the “look development” of key assets. I. Digital Texture Development Look Development: Work directly from painted physical maquettes or 2D color line-ups to develop the visual identity of characters and props. Texture Mapping: Create complex texture maps using advanced CG tools, specifically optimized for the studio’s proprietary 3D color printing palettes. Scale and Detail: Ensure that surface details—such as skin pores, fabric weaves, or environmental grime—are scaled appropriately to be legible and impactful once printed at puppet scale. II. Evaluation and Iteration Photographic Analysis: Photograph 3D-printed assets under controlled lighting to evaluate color accuracy and surface detail. Map Adjustment: Use photographic feedback to meticulously adjust CG texture maps, compensating for the physical printer’s color gamut to achieve the desired “on-screen” look. Quality Control: Ensure that all assets meet the rigorous standards of the Director and the Visual Development team. III. Post-Processing and Finishing Physical Finishing: Assist in the manual processing of 3D-printed parts, including support removal and the application of surface finishing treatments (sealing, sanding, or specialized coatings). Workshop Upkeep: Aid in the general maintenance and organization of the RP shop to ensure a streamlined production environment. Schedule Management: Meet production deadlines and milestones as established by production management, learning to balance creative excellence with the realities of a feature film schedule. Required and Preferred Qualifications Academic and Professional Standards Educational Status: Currently enrolled as a Junior or Senior in an accredited college or university, or a recent graduate within 12 months of the program start date. Discipline: A focus in Fine Arts, Animation, Computer Graphics, Illustration, or a related area of study. Software Proficiency: Strong foundational experience with Adobe Photoshop. Portfolio Requirement: Applications without relevant samples, portfolios, or reels will not be considered. We are looking for work that demonstrates a high level of aesthetic judgment, color theory, and digital surfacing skills. Technical Skills (The “Plus” Factors) Advanced Texturing: Prior experience with Mari, 3D texture projection, and advanced UV layout/editing is a significant advantage. Traditional Arts: Strong traditional painting skills (oil, acrylic, or watercolor) are highly valued as they inform the digital look development process. Generalist Knowledge: Basic experience in CG modeling and lighting helps in understanding how textures will react to production environments. Physical Demands & Work Environment This position is on-site in Hillsboro, OR, to facilitate the physical evaluation of 3D printed parts. Physical Demands: While performing these duties, the employee is required to walk, stand, and sit for extended periods. Fine motor skills are required to operate standard office equipment and perform physical finishing on small 3D printed parts. Lifting: The ability to lift and/or move materials weighing up to 15 pounds. Vision: Vision abilities including close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus for intricate digital and physical detail. Work Environment: Typical studio and shop conditions with moderate noise levels and variable indoor temperatures. The Internship Experience: Benefits & Perks Mentorship: Work alongside the world’s leading experts in 3D color printing for animation. Cutting-Edge Tech: Gain exposure to proprietary 3D printing workflows and software unavailable anywhere else in the industry. Cross-Departmental Insight: Learn how texture artistry interacts with Puppet Fabrication, Camera, and Animation departments. Professional Development: Build a portfolio that showcases a unique, high-demand skill set at the intersection of VFX and physical manufacturing. Application Process: Join the Evolution Deadline for Submission: Friday, March 27, 2026, by 6:00 PM PDT. To be considered for the Summer 2026 RP Texture Internship, please submit: Resume & Cover Letter: Detail your academic journey and your specific interest in the marriage of 3D printing and animation. Portfolio/Reel: Provide a link to your digital work. Essential Content: Portfolios should ideally show “Before and After” samples of … Read more

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: Storyboard Artist Intern Job Type: Internship (Full-Time / Temporary) Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Senior University Standing or Recent Graduate (within 12 months) Salary Range: USD $20.00 per hour (Fixed / Non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to Director in Development & Lead Storyboard Artist Industry: Motion Pictures, Animation, and Narrative Development Company Overview: The Architecture of Story LAIKA Studios  is a world-renowned pioneer in the field of feature animation, celebrated for a unique cinematic signature that seamlessly blends the tactile beauty of stop-motion with cutting-edge digital innovation. Located in Hillsboro, Oregon, we are a community of specialized artists, technologists, and storytellers dedicated to crafting unconventional narratives that resonate with audiences of all ages. In the Story Department, we are the architects of the film. We believe that a great movie begins with a powerful visual blueprint. LAIKA Studios is responsible for interpreting complex scripts into a visual language that dictates the pacing, emotion, and cinematic scope of our features. We foster an environment of radical collaboration where creative bravery is encouraged, and where every sketch serves a greater narrative purpose. As we embark on the development of our next original feature, we are seeking a Storyboard Artist Intern who is ready to immerse themselves in the rigorous, rewarding world of professional visual storytelling. Role Overview The Storyboard Artist Intern is a high-impact creative role within our development production pipeline. This internship is designed to provide “hands-on” experience in the translation of written word into cinematic imagery. Working under the direct mentorship of a Director in Development and a Lead Storyboard Artist, the intern will be challenged to explore story lines through sketches, thumbnail drawings, and high-fidelity finished storyboard panels. This position is ideal for an aspiring filmmaker-artist who understands that storyboarding is about more than just “drawing well”—it is about acting, cinematography, and editorial pacing. You will be integrated into the creative heart of the studio, contributing to the visual analysis of scripts and helping to develop the character personalities and dramatic beats that define our films. This is an opportunity to learn the specialized nuances of stop-motion storytelling, where every camera angle must be meticulously planned for a physical set. Key Responsibilities and Production Duties The Storyboard Artist Intern will support the Story department through a variety of creative and research-based tasks aimed at refining the narrative vision of our current projects. I. Visual Narrative Creation Thumbnail Exploration: Assist in the rapid generation of quick thumbnail sketches to explore different staging options and narrative flows. Panel Refinement: Progress from rough thumbnails to finished, detailed storyboard panels that clearly convey character action, emotion, and lighting cues. Script Interpretation: Assist in the visual analysis and translation of script pages into compelling story ideas that align with the Director’s vision. Story Invention: Contribute inventive ideas, humor, and creative solutions to a variety of project types, ensuring a high level of entertainment value. II. Cinematic & Performance Excellence Staging and Composition: Utilize foundational filmmaking techniques to ensure effective use of the 1.85 or 2.39 frame, focusing on camera placement and character blocking. Character Acting: Assist in the development of character personality through dramatic and comedic action, ensuring that every pose conveys a specific internal thought or emotion. Animation Principles: Apply the core principles of animation—weight, anticipation, and follow-through—to storyboard drawings to ensure they are “animatable” for the production team. III. Research & Collaboration Background Research: Perform deep-dive visual and thematic research to inform the world-building and story process. Note Incorporation: Participate in regular story review sessions. You must demonstrate the ability to take professional direction and incorporate complex director notes quickly and efficiently. Workflow Management: Effectively prioritize assigned tasks and meet strict deadlines within the production schedule. Required and Preferred Qualifications Academic and Professional Standards Educational Standing: Currently enrolled as a Senior at an accredited college or university, or a recent graduate within 12 months of the program start date. Field of Study: A major or concentration in Animation, Film, Illustration, Fine Arts, or a related narrative field. Artistic Excellence: Superior drawing skills with a mastery of anatomy, perspective, and character-driven performance. Portfolio Requirement: Applications without relevant samples, portfolios, or reels will not be considered. We are looking for work that shows a clear understanding of cinematic storytelling, not just pin-up illustrations. Technical & Soft Skills Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop. Hardware: Prior experience with a Wacom Cintiq drawing tablet is highly preferred. Principles of Design: A strong understanding of the principles of animation, acting, and movement. Communication: Detail-oriented with excellent verbal and written communication skills. Collaboration: The ability to work both independently on deep-focus assignments and collaboratively within a high-pressure team environment. Physical Demands & Work Environment This is an on-site position in Hillsboro, OR, designed to facilitate the high level of collaborative feedback inherent in story development. Physical Demands: Standard digital studio tasks, including sitting for extended periods and using hands to operate standard office and digital drawing equipment. Vision: Vision abilities including close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus for intricate drawing tasks. Lifting: Ability to lift and/or move materials weighing up to 15 pounds. Environment: Typical studio conditions with moderate noise levels and variable indoor temperatures. Benefits and Perks Direct Mentorship: Work alongside industry-leading Directors and Lead Story Artists who have shaped the landscape of modern animation. Production Immersion: See how your storyboards inform the work of Puppet Fabrication, Camera, and Animation departments. Professional Growth: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the development process within an Academy Award-winning studio environment. Community: Join a cohort of interns and professionals who are as passionate about cinema as they are about the craft of animation. Application Process: How to Apply Deadline for Submission: Friday, March 27, 2026, by 6:00 PM PDT. To be considered for the Summer 2026 Storyboard Internship, please submit: Resume & Cover Letter: Detail your academic background and narrative influences. Portfolio/Reel: Provide a link to a digital … Read more

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: Software Developer Intern Job Type: Internship (Temporary / Full-Time) Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Junior/Senior Standing, Recent Graduate, or Certified Professional Salary Range: USD $20.00 per hour (Fixed / Non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to Core Technology Lead / Senior Software Engineer Industry: Animation, Feature Film, and Information Technology Company Overview: Engineering the Imagination LAIKA Studios is a world leader in stop-motion and CG hybrid animation, globally recognized for pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the big screen. Based in Hillsboro, Oregon, we are a collective of artists, technologists, and innovators who believe that the best storytelling is supported by robust, cutting-edge technology. At the heart of our LAIKA Studios lies the Core Technology Department. While our audiences see beautiful puppets and sweeping digital landscapes, our developers see the complex data structures, deployment pipelines, and custom applications that make those visuals possible. We operate in a highly dynamic production environment where software isn’t just a utility—it is the engine of creativity. We pride ourselves on a culture of excellence, where transparency and collaborative problem-solving lead to the development of tools used by the world’s most talented artists. Role Overview The Software Developer Intern is an immersive technical role designed to bridge the gap between academic computer science and production-grade software engineering. As an intern within our Core Technology team, you will move beyond theoretical exercises to work on high-stakes systems and tools used to build and deploy custom applications for feature film production. This position offers a rare opportunity to see how software impacts the creative pipeline in real-time. You will be supported and challenged by a team of skilled professionals, gaining hands-on experience in a full-stack environment that values clean code, efficient algorithms, and scalable architecture. This is a role for a curious, logic-driven individual who is passionate about both technology and the cinematic arts. Key Responsibilities & Production Duties The Software Developer Intern will be fully integrated into the software development life cycle (SDLC), contributing to the stability and evolution of our studio’s technical ecosystem. I. Full-Cycle Software Development Application Engineering: Participate in all phases of the SDLC, including requirements gathering from artists and technical directors, software design, rapid prototyping, development, testing, and eventual deployment. Code Refactoring: Work with senior engineers to identify and refactor existing code bases to improve performance, maintainability, and scalability. Unit Testing: Develop and maintain comprehensive unit tests to ensure the reliability of custom production tools and prevent regressions in a fast-paced environment. II. Systems & Tool Management Configuration & Dependency Management: Learn the intricacies of managing software dependencies and configurations within a complex, multi-platform production environment. Third-Party Integration: Lead independent projects involving the research, testing, and integration of new 3rd-party software tools and APIs into our existing pipeline. Technical Documentation: Maintain high standards of documentation for all code, ensuring that tools are accessible and maintainable for current and future team members. III. Collaboration & Professionalism Best Practices: Adhere to industry-standard best practices, including rigorous use of style guides and participation in peer code reviews. Cross-Departmental Support: Work closely with Technical Directors to understand the specific needs of the animation and fabrication departments, translating those needs into technical requirements. Required and Preferred Qualifications at LAIKA Studios Academic and Certification Standards Educational Status: Currently enrolled as a Junior or Senior in an accredited college or university, or a recent graduate within the last 12 months. Field of Study: A focus in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field. Alternative Paths: We also accept candidates who have recently completed intensive Computer Science or Engineering-related certificates from reputable non-degree programs. Technical Skills & Competencies Programming Proficiency: Proficiency in at least one major programming language such as Python, C++, or Node.js. Foundational Knowledge: A strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming (OOP) principles. Graphics Exposure: Prior experience or a strong interest in 3D graphics, rendering, visual effects (VFX), or video encoding is highly desirable. Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, specifically the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Physical Demands & Work Environment This position is on-site at our Hillsboro studio to ensure direct collaboration with our engineering team and access to our secure production servers. Physical Demands: Standard office tasks including the use of computers and standard office equipment. The role involves walking, standing, and sitting for extended periods. Visual Acuity: Close vision and the ability to adjust focus are required for extensive coding and debugging tasks. Work Environment: Typical professional office conditions with quiet to moderate noise levels and variable indoor temperatures. Benefits and Perks Mentorship: Work directly with Senior Software Engineers who are leaders in the field of animation technology. Cutting-Edge Stack: Gain exposure to proprietary tools and industry-standard software used in Academy Award-winning productions. Studio Culture: Access to exclusive screenings, guest speakers, and a collaborative environment where art and technology collide. Professional Growth: Opportunities to own independent research projects that contribute directly to the studio’s technical roadmap. Application Process & Deadlines Deadline for Submission: Friday, March 27, 2026, by 6:00 PM PDT. To be considered for the Summer 2026 Software Developer Internship, please submit a professional resume highlighting your programming projects, GitHub repository links (if applicable), and any relevant coursework or certifications. Note on Compensation: This position is paid at a set, non-negotiable rate of $20.00 per hour.

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: Puppet Fabrication CG Modeling Intern Job Type: Internship (Temporary / Full-Time) Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Junior/Senior Standing or Recent Graduate (within 12 months) Salary Range: USD $20.00 per hour (Fixed / Non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to Digital Fabrication Lead / Puppet Fabrication Supervisor Industry: Animation, Motion Pictures, and Rapid Prototyping Company Overview: Where Digital Meets Tangible LAIKA Studios stands as a global vanguard of stop-motion animation, celebrated for a unique cinematic signature that marries hand-crafted artistry with state-of-the-art digital innovation. Based in Hillsboro, Oregon, we are an academy of creators—artists, scientists, and engineers—who believe that the tactile nature of stop-motion provides an emotional resonance unlike any other medium. In the Puppet Fabrication department, we bridge the gap between the virtual and the physical. LAIKA Studios leverage high-end CG modeling and rapid prototyping to create the physical characters that populate our miniature worlds. Our culture is one of extreme precision, where the “digital” is never an end in itself, but rather a sophisticated tool used to realize physical excellence. As we prepare for our upcoming feature-length project, we are seeking a Puppet Fabrication CG Modeling Intern who is eager to master the complexities of a hybrid digital-to-physical production pipeline. Role Overview The Puppet Fabrication CG Modeling Intern is a highly specialized technical-artistic role. While many modeling positions focus on assets for a screen, this internship focuses on assets for the real world. You will work within our Digital Fabrication team to create the 3D components required to manufacture puppet bodies, internal structures, and complex molds. This role provides a rare, hands-on opportunity to see your digital sculpts transformed into physical objects via advanced 3D printing and mold-making processes. You will be challenged to balance artistic organic modeling with the rigid requirements of mechanical engineering and manufacturing tolerances. Under the mentorship of our seasoned professionals, you will gain “renowned stop-motion expertise” that exists at the intersection of VFX and traditional sculpture. Key Responsibilities & Production Duties The Puppet Fabrication CG Modeling Intern will be expected to support the Puppet Fabrication pipeline through the following core functions: I. Digital Sculpting & Template Creation Character Realization: Assist in creating digital puppet sculpts that are perfectly on-scale and on-model with the physical character maquettes provided by the design team. Armature Integration: Provide digital 3D templates of puppets to the Armature department to ensure the internal mechanical skeletons fit perfectly within the exterior “skin.” Asset Libraries: Assist in the creation and maintenance of an asset library of joint arrays and mechanical components to be used across various characters. II. Digital Mold Design & Manufacturing Prep Precision Mold Making: Create highly precise digital molds and specialized mold components designed specifically for 3D printing. This requires an understanding of draft angles, parting lines, and material thickness. Technical Reductions: Perform model reductions and “grip block” creation to facilitate the handling of puppets during the animation process. Print Preparation: Manage the file preparation for rapid prototyping, ensuring all geometry is manifold and optimized for high-resolution 3D prints. III. Physical Assembly & Collaboration Practical Implementation: Beyond the screen, you will practically assemble printed molds and components to verify fit and function before handing them off to downstream departments like Casting or Paint. Inter-Departmental Support: Collaborate with various production wings to address digital needs, ensuring that the CG modeling supports the overarching goals of the puppet build. Production Standards: Execute the duties of a Junior Digital Fabricator, maintaining a high standard of visual and technical quality while adhering to the rigorous production schedule. Required and Preferred Qualifications Minimum Academic & Technical Requirements Educational Status: Currently enrolled as a Junior or Senior in a college or university, or a recent graduate within the last 12 months. Artistic/Technical Core: Basic knowledge of Autodesk Maya, ZBrush, and Adobe Photoshop. Organic Modeling: A fundamental understanding of organic 3D modeling, with an eye for anatomy, form, and silhouette. Documentation: Applications without relevant samples/portfolios/reels will not be considered. Portfolios should showcase clean topology and high-resolution digital sculpts. Preferred Skills (The “Competitive Edge”) Rigging: A basic understanding of rigging within Maya to help predict how a digital model will move when translated into a physical puppet. Scripting: Basic knowledge of MEL or Python to assist in workflow automation and tool development. Manufacturing Experience: Prior experience with Rapid Prototyping (3D printing) or traditional puppet/mold fabrication is highly valued. Soft Skills: Exceptional attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a high-functioning team. Physical Demands & Work Environment This role is on-site in Hillsboro to facilitate the physical assembly and collaboration required for fabrication. Physical Demands: Standard office tasks combined with the physical assembly of printed parts. The role involves walking, standing, and manual dexterity for operating equipment and assembling small components. Lifting: Ability to lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Vision: Vision abilities including close vision and the ability to adjust focus for intricate digital and physical work. Environment: Typical studio/office conditions with moderate noise levels and variable indoor temperatures. Application Process & Deadlines Deadline for Submission: Friday, March 27, 2026, by 6:00 PM PDT. To be considered, candidates must: Submit a Portfolio: Provide a digital link showcasing 3D modeling and sculpting work. Highlight any work that involves 3D printing or mechanical integration. Verify Qualifications: Carefully review the technical requirements to ensure your software skills align with Maya and ZBrush expectations. Note on Salary: This position is paid at a set rate of $20.00 per hour, which is non-negotiable.

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: Costume Fabrication Intern Job Type: Internship (Temporary) Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Junior/Senior Standing or Recent Graduate (within 12 months) Salary Range: USD $20.00 per hour (Fixed / Non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to Costume Fabrication Lead / Shop Supervisor Industry: Motion Pictures, Animation, and Textile Arts Company Overview: Crafting the Miniature World LAIKA Studios is a world-renowned leader in the art of stop-motion animation, dedicated to the belief that hand-crafted stories possess a unique soul and enduring magic. Located in Hillsboro, Oregon, LAIKA Studios operate at the cutting edge of cinematic innovation, merging centuries-old artisanal techniques with state-of-the-art technology. Every character we create is a masterpiece of engineering and artistry, designed to perform under the intense scrutiny of the camera lens. Inside LAIKA Studios Costume Fabrication department, we don’t just “make clothes”; we engineer miniature garments that must withstand the rigors of frame-by-frame animation while maintaining perfect scale, silhouette, and movement. We are a community of specialized creators—tailors, painters, and engineers—who thrive on precision and creative problem-solving. As we move forward with our latest feature-length production, we are seeking a Costume Fabrication Intern who shares our obsession with detail and our passion for the textile arts. Role Overview The Costume Fabrication Intern is an immersive production role designed for an emerging artist with a strong foundation in garment construction and a keen interest in the specialized world of stop-motion puppets. Unlike traditional fashion or theatrical costuming, stop-motion costume fabrication requires an understanding of how fabrics behave at a 1:5 or 1:6 scale. As an intern, you will work alongside some of the industry’s most skilled professionals, gaining “hands-on” experience in every facet of the fabrication process. You will be challenged to adapt your existing sewing and patterning skills to the unique demands of animation—where a costume must not only look beautiful but also hide complex mechanical armatures and support the specific, repetitive movements of an animator. This role offers a rare glimpse into the “renowned stop-motion expertise” that defines our studio’s visual identity. Key Responsibilities & Production Duties The successful intern will be integrated into the workshop workflow, assisting with both the creative and technical aspects of costume development. I. Patterning and Construction Technical Fabrication: Follow complex reference images, character designs, and construction notes to fabricate costumes and individual costume elements with extreme precision. Pattern Manipulation: Assist in patterning garments using various techniques, including draping on miniature forms and flat pattern manipulation. Intricate Assembly: Execute extremely fine hand sewing, cutting, fusing, and gluing. The scale of our puppets requires a level of detail that traditional garment construction rarely demands. Understructures: Assist in the creation of support structures (both hard and soft). This includes integrating wires and rigid forms to manage fabric “memory,” as well as foam and fabric linings that enhance character performance. II. Textile Artistry & Embellishment Surface Design: Assist with the embellishment of fabrics using techniques such as embroidery and specialized textures while ensuring the fabric remains pliable for animation. Dyeing and Color: Participate in the dyeing and color-mixing process to ensure textile colors match the established character palette under production lighting. III. Documentation & Shop Operations Process Documentation: Help maintain detailed, concise, and easy-to-follow instructions for all patterns and fabrication processes to ensure consistency across multiple versions of a single puppet. Workshop Upkeep: Contribute to the general maintenance and organization of the costume shop, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment for the entire team. Instruction Adherence: Accurately translate verbal instructions and design feedback into physical prototypes. Required and Preferred Qualifications Academic and Professional Requirements Educational Standing: Currently enrolled as a Junior or Senior in an accredited college or university, or a recent graduate (within the last 12 months). Field of Study: A major or concentration in Fine Arts, Film, Fashion Design, Costume Design, or a related field is required. Technical Portfolio: Applications without relevant samples, portfolios, or reels will not be considered. We are looking for work that demonstrates high-level sewing skills and a deep understanding of fabric. Technical Skills & Competencies Garment Construction: A basic but solid understanding of fabric properties, pattern cutting, draping, and professional sewing techniques. Color Theory: Basic knowledge of dyeing techniques and the ability to mix colors accurately. Digital Literacy: Preliminary knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for the purpose of reviewing designs and assisting with digital textile design. Soft Skills: Strong organizational abilities, a collaborative mindset, and excellent communication skills are essential for success in our studio environment. Physical Demands & Work Environment Costume fabrication intern is a physically engaging role that requires a high degree of manual dexterity. Physical Demands: While performing these duties, the employee is required to stand, sit, and use hands to operate specialized equipment. Precision work requires the ability to reach, balance, and stoop. Vision: The role requires exceptional close vision and the ability to adjust focus for finely detailed tasks (e.g., threading needles or micro-stitching). Lifting: Ability to lift and/or move materials weighing up to 15 pounds. Environment: Work is performed on-site in a professional studio workshop with typical office noise levels and variable indoor temperatures. Application Process & Important Deadlines Application Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026, by 6:00 PM PDT. To be considered for the Summer 2026 cohort, please submit the following: Resume & Cover Letter: Detail your relevant experience and your interest in stop-motion. Portfolio: Provide a link to a digital portfolio showcasing your best work in garment construction, embroidery, or textile arts. Accuracy Check: Please read the job description carefully to ensure your materials highlight the qualifications mentioned. Compensation: This position offers a set, non-negotiable rate of $20.00 per hour.

Job Overview Company: LAIKA Studios Job Title: Character Design Intern Job Type: Internship (Full-Time / Temporary) Location: Hillsboro, Oregon, USA Work Model: 100% On-Site Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level Required Experience: Senior University Standing or Recent Graduate (within 12 months) Salary Range: USD $20.00 per hour (Fixed / Non-negotiable) Reporting Structure: Reports to Principal Character Designer Industry: Motion Pictures, Animation, and Visual Arts Company Overview: The Art of Innovation LAIKA Studios is a world leader in the field of feature animation, specifically renowned for pushing the boundaries of stop-motion storytelling. Based in Hillsboro, Oregon, LAIKA Studios is a community of artists, engineers, and dreamers dedicated to the craft of “hand-made” cinema augmented by cutting-edge technology. We believe that every character has a soul and every story deserves a unique visual language. Our films are celebrated for their intricate detail, emotional depth, and bold aesthetic choices. At the heart of this success is our Character Design department—the architects of the heroes, villains, and creatures that inhabit our worlds. We foster an environment of radical collaboration, where tradition meets innovation, and where every member of the team, from interns to principal designers, contributes to a legacy of cinematic excellence. We invite you to join us in our pursuit of creating characters that resonate across generations. Role Overview The Character Design Intern is a pivotal developmental role within our pre-production and production pipeline. This is not a passive learning experience; it is a “hands-on” immersion into the creative heart of a feature-length production. Working under the direct supervision of the Principal Character Designer, the intern will assist in the high-level exploration, iterative design, and technical finalization of characters that will eventually be translated into physical puppets. The primary objective of this internship is to provide a comprehensive look at the life cycle of character creation. You will be tasked with translating abstract narrative concepts into tangible visual designs. This role requires a high degree of artistic flexibility, as you will be expected to adapt to the specific “house style” of a production while injecting your own unique creative perspective. From anatomical research to the creation of expression sheets that inform the facial animation of our puppets, your work will directly impact the visual development of our upcoming projects. Key Responsibilities and Production Tasks The responsibilities of the Character Design Intern are multifaceted, spanning from initial blue-sky research to the final technical deliverables required for the puppet fabrication pipeline. I. Conceptual Exploration & Research Creative Investigation: Conduct deep-dive research into human and animal anatomy, historical costume design, and diverse drawing styles to inform early character concepts. Personality Development: Explore character design elements that define a character’s attitude, personality traits, and psychological depth through silhouette and posture. Iterative Sketching: Generate a high volume of “loose” exploration sketches to help directors and lead designers narrow down the visual direction of a character. II. 2D Design & Technical Specification Character Turnarounds: Assist in the creation of detailed 2D turnarounds (front, back, and profile views) that serve as blueprints for the physical puppet builders. Expression Sheets: Develop comprehensive expression and “mouth-shape” sheets to define the range of emotional performance a character must achieve. Posing & Dynamics: Produce dynamic action poses that showcase how a character moves through space and interacts with their environment. Color Blocking: Assist in the application of color theory to character designs, creating color blocks and digital “character paints” to establish skin tones, textures, and costume palettes. III. Pipeline Collaboration Cross-Departmental Synergy: Create design elements (faces, body shapes, hairstyles, and hands) that provide clear instructions to the Puppet Fabrication and Armature departments. Feedback Integration: Participate in formal review sessions and dailies. You must demonstrate the ability to take critical direction and incorporate director notes with speed and professional grace. Schedule Adherence: Effectively prioritize daily tasks to meet the rigorous deadlines established by the production calendar. Required and Preferred Qualifications Minimum Academic and Professional Standards Educational Status: Currently enrolled as a Senior at an accredited college or university, or a recent graduate within 12 months of the program start date. Discipline: Major or concentration in Animation, Film, Fine Arts, Illustration, or a related creative field. Drawing Excellence: Exceptional foundational drawing skills, with a specific mastery of character construction, weight, and volume. Software Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of Adobe Photoshop as the primary tool for digital design and painting. Core Competencies (The “Soft Skills”) Stylistic Versatility: The ability to move beyond your personal drawing “comfort zone” and adapt to the unique aesthetic requirements of a specific film. Anatomical Foundation: A solid understanding of human and animal anatomy, including facial musculature and skeletal structure. Collaborative Spirit: The ability to work both independently on deep-focus tasks and collaboratively within a high-pressure team environment. Detail Orientation: A meticulous approach to turnarounds and technical drawings where a single misplaced line could impact the practical build of a puppet. Physical Demands & Work Environment The Character Design Intern role is performed on-site at our studio to ensure seamless collaboration with the design and fabrication teams. Physical Activity: While primarily a sedentary design role, the employee will occasionally need to walk, stand, and navigate a bustling studio environment. Equipment Use: Constant use of digital drawing tablets and standard office computer equipment. Visual Acuity: The role requires exceptional close vision and the ability to distinguish subtle color variations and focus adjustments during the design process. Environment: Typical studio/office conditions with moderate noise levels and indoor temperature fluctuations. Benefits and Perks As an Character Design Intern at our Hillsboro Laika studio, you are more than a temporary worker; you are a member of our creative family. Benefits of the program include: Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from some of the industry’s most respected Principal Designers. Portfolio Development: The opportunity to work on high-profile projects that will serve as a cornerstone for your professional portfolio. Studio Access: Exposure to the full “end-to-end” stop-motion process, from the fabrication shops to the animation stages. Networking: Direct interaction with a diverse cohort of interns and professionals across various departments. Application Process: … Read more