Underdogz is looking for Senior Layout Artist, ROSSOMAN
Underdogz is currently in an urgent hiring phase for their upcoming production, “ROSSOMAN.” They are looking for a Senior Layout Artist—someone who acts as the bridge between the storyboard and the final animation. This role is about more than just drawing; it is about setting the stage, defining the cinematography, and ensuring the characters live naturally within their environment. Job Overview Company: Underdogz Project: ROSSOMAN by Underdogz Job Titile: Senior Layout Artist Start Date: March 23, 2026 (Urgent Hire) Location: Senigallia, Italy Work Option: Remote possible, but Relocation Preferred What the Role Requires Being a “Senior” artist means the studio expects you to hit the ground running. Here is a deeper look at the core requirements: 1. Professional Pedigree You need a minimum of 5 years of experience specifically within the pipeline of animated TV series or short films. The studio is looking for a “production-hardened” artist who understands the workflow, from receiving storyboards to handing off assets to the background and animation teams. 2. Mastery of Staging and Composition A Senior Layout Artist is essentially the “Director of Photography” for a 2D or 3D scene. You must understand: Camera Angles: How to use high, low, or Dutch angles to convey emotion. Depth: Creating a sense of three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional plane. Dynamics: Making sure the “shot” feels alive and guides the viewer’s eye to the most important action. 3. Staying “On Model” One of the biggest challenges in layout is maintaining the integrity of the character designs. Underdogz emphasizes excellent precision. You must be able to draw the characters in complex perspectives while ensuring they still look exactly like the official model sheets. If a character looks “off” in the layout, it creates massive problems for the animators later. 4. Storyboard Translation Storyboards are often loose or gestural. Your job is to take those rough ideas and “finalize” the blueprint. This means: Defining the exact field of view. Establishing the correct scale between characters and their environment. Setting up the “poses” that animators will use as their foundation. The Benefits of Relocation While the job description notes that this is not strictly an on-site position, there is a clear nudge toward Senigallia, Italy. Why consider relocating? Priority Status: In a competitive hiring pool, being “boots on the ground” often makes you a more attractive hire for senior roles where communication is key. The Environment: Senigallia is a beautiful coastal town in the Marche region. Working in a studio environment often fosters better creative collaboration and faster problem-solving than working across different time zones. Production Integration: Being physically present for the March 23 start date allows you to integrate more deeply into the Underdogz culture and the specific “look” of “ROSSOMAN.” Application Strategy: Making the Cut Because applications are being reviewed urgently, you don’t have time for a cluttered resume. Here is how to organize your submission: Your Portfolio/Reel Your reel should not just show pretty pictures; it should show process. Include: Side-by-Side Comparisons: Show the original storyboard panel next to your finished layout. Technical Sheets: Show layouts that include camera movements (pans, trucks, zooms). Draftsmanship: Include examples of complex architectural or natural environments that show your grasp of perspective. The Application Form The prompt mentions a specific Form to complete. When filling this out: Be Direct: Highlight your 5+ years of experience in the first sentence. Mention “ROSSOMAN”: Show you’ve done your homework. If you can find the art style of the studio online, mention why your personal style or professional experience aligns with it. Availability: Confirm you are ready to start by March 23. Why This Role Matters In the pipeline of an animated series, the Layout Artist is the “unsung hero.” Without a strong layout, the animation lacks structure, and the backgrounds feel disconnected from the characters. By joining Underdogz for “ROSSOMAN,” you are taking on a leadership role in defining the visual language of a new production. The studio is looking for someone who doesn’t just “do the work” but someone who contributes to the craft. They want an artist who is passionate about the tiny details—the way a shadow falls, the way a character’s feet plant on the ground, and the way a camera lens choice changes the mood of a scene. Final Checklist for Candidates Before you hit “Submit” on that form, ask yourself: [ ] Is my reel up to date with my most recent senior-level work? [ ] Can I realistically start by March 23? [ ] Have I clearly stated whether I am willing to relocate to Italy? [ ] Does my portfolio prove I can keep characters “on model” in difficult poses? Good luck! This is a high-quality production, and for the right artist, it represents a fantastic opportunity to leave a mark on a professional animated series.