Junior CG 3D Layout Artist job | Atomic Cartoons

Atomic Cartoons, a premier subsidiary of Blue Ant Studios, is currently seeking a motivated and talented Junior CG Layout Artist to join our world-class production team in Vancouver. This is a unique opportunity for an entry-level professional to dive into the heart of high-end animation, working on globally recognized IPs and original content. As a B Corp certified organization and a BC Benefit Company, Atomic Cartoons is dedicated to maintaining an artist-driven culture that balances creative excellence with social responsibility.

The Junior CG Layout Artist plays a pivotal role in the animation pipeline, bridging the gap between 2D storyboards and 3D production. You will be responsible for translating narrative beats into cinematic sequences, ensuring that every camera angle and character movement serves the story’s emotional and technical requirements.

Job Overview: CG Layout 3D Artist

Compensation and Benefits Structure

Atomic Cartoons utilizes a transparent pay scale based on British Columbia’s economic standards and industry benchmarks. We believe in rewarding talent while providing a comprehensive safety net for our artists.

Salary Table (Weekly Rates)

Comprehensive Benefits Package

In addition to competitive weekly wages, successful candidates are eligible for a robust suite of benefits designed to support long-term well-being:

• Health & Wellness: Company-sponsored medical and dental insurance.

• Financial Security: Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (GRSP) matching.

• Time Off: Accrued vacation pay, paid holiday break (winter closure), and various paid leave options.

• Perks: Access to exclusive industry discounts, professional development workshops, and studio-wide social events.

Detailed Job Responsibilities

The Junior CG Layout Artist is the “cinematographer” of the 3D world. Your primary objective is to set the stage for the animators and lighting artists.

1. Cinematic Execution and Shot Composition

You will create sequences of shots that effectively convey the story. This involves a deep understanding of traditional filmmaking principles—such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and depth of field—and applying them within a 3D software environment. You must ensure that the “lens” choice reflects the mood of the scene.

2. Character Blocking and Camera Animation

You are responsible for the initial placement of characters (blocking) to establish spatial relationships within a set. Furthermore, you will animate the camera’s physical movement, whether it’s a subtle handheld jitter for realism, a sweeping crane shot for scale, or a precise rack focus to shift viewer attention.

3. Storyboard Interpretation and Enhancement

Working closely with the Storyboard Department, you will translate 2D panels into 3D space. While the storyboard provides the blueprint, the Layout Artist often finds opportunities to enhance the story through creative camera placement that might not have been apparent in two dimensions.

4. Collaborative Workflow

Layout does not exist in a vacuum. You will work under the guidance of the Layout Supervisor to ensure all work aligns with the Director’s vision. You will also coordinate with the Asset and Rigging departments if technical adjustments are needed for a specific shot to function correctly.

5. Technical Upkeep

The animation industry moves fast. You are expected to stay updated on the latest software plugins, Maya updates, and virtual cinematography techniques to keep Atomic at the forefront of the industry.

Candidate Qualifications

We are looking for a blend of technical proficiency and artistic intuition.

• Artistic Skills: Strong foundation in layout, traditional animation principles, and cinematography. You should have an “eye” for what makes a shot look professional and engaging.

• Storytelling: The ability to interpret a storyboard and understand the “why” behind a scene, not just the “how.”

• Technical Proficiency: While this is a junior role, experience with Autodesk Maya is highly desirable. Familiarity with other 3D packages (Houdini, Blender) is also an asset.

• Secondary Knowledge: A basic understanding of character posing, lighting, modeling, and texturing will help you troubleshoot shots and understand the needs of the departments following you in the pipeline.

• Soft Skills: You must be a collaborative team player who views feedback as a tool for growth. High attention to detail is non-negotiable, as layout errors can ripple throughout the entire production.

The Atomic Culture and Diversity Commitment

About Atomic Cartoons

Since its inception, Atomic Cartoons has built a reputation for excellence. By joining our team, you contribute to a legacy that includes work on massive global brands like LEGO, Star Wars, and My Little Pony, as well as critically acclaimed originals like The Last Kids on Earth. Our B Corp certification reflects our commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

Atomic Cartoons and Blue Ant Studios are Equal Opportunity Employers. We recognize that our strength lies in the diversity of our artists. We actively work to remove barriers for:

• Women and Non-Binary Individuals

• Indigenous Peoples

• Visible Minorities

• Persons with Disabilities

• Members of the LGBTQ2S+ Community

We are dedicated to building a workplace that reflects the diverse world we live in. We provide accommodations upon request for all candidates throughout the recruitment process. If you require specific support, please reach out to our recruitment team at recruitment@atomiccartoons.com.

Industry Context: The Vancouver Animation Market

To provide a broader perspective for applicants, it is helpful to look at the current state of the industry. Vancouver remains one of the world’s largest hubs for animation and Visual Effects (VFX).

Market Statistics and Demographics (Estimates 2024-2025)

The animation sector in British Columbia is a significant driver of the local economy. According to industry reports:

• Workforce Size: The BC digital media and animation sector employs over 16,000 professionals.

• Economic Impact: The industry contributes over $1 billion annually to the provincial GDP.

• Diversity Trends: While historically male-dominated, the industry has seen a shift. Current estimates suggest that women make up approximately 35-40% of the animation workforce in Vancouver, with concerted efforts (like those at Atomic) to reach 50%.

• Representation: Visible minorities constitute roughly 30% of the creative workforce in Vancouver’s tech and film sectors, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the city. Atomic Cartoons is a leader in ensuring these statistics translate into leadership roles, not just entry-level positions.

How to Apply

If you are a passionate storyteller with a drive to create world-class animation, we want to hear from you.

1. Portfolio/Reel: Ensure your reel demonstrates a clear understanding of 3D space, camera movement, and composition.

2. Residency Proof: Be prepared to provide documentation proving BC residency as of December 31, 2025.

3. Submission: Apply through our official careers portal.

Note: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview. We appreciate the time and effort every artist puts into their application.