Blue Zoo animation Jobs Overview

• Company: Blue Zoo Animation Studio, a premier B Corp-certified, BAFTA-winning CG studio.
• Role: Lead 3D Character Animator overseeing team performance, comedic timing, and acting quality.
• Location: London, UK, offering Hybrid/Flexible work (must be UK-based with Right to Work).
• Salary: Competitive range of £42,000 – £84,000 depending on experience and portfolio.
• Job Type: Fixed Term Contract within the 3D Animation and Advertising departments.
• Core Tech: Expert-level Maya proficiency; knowledge of Shotgrid, FTrack, and Python/MEL is a plus.
• Leadership: Responsible for mentoring artists, conducting daily catch-ups, and managing production deadlines.
• Artistic Focus: High-end body mechanics, characterful performances, and expert-level storytelling.
• Collaboration: Working closely with the Head of Animation and Directors to maintain high artistic standards.
• Culture: Join a studio voted “Best Place to Work in TV” multiple times with profit-sharing perks.

Are you a master storyteller with a flair for comedic timing and a passion for leading creative teams? Blue Zoo Animation Studio, the UK’s first B Corp-certified major animation studio, is looking for a Lead 3D Character Animator to join our award-winning team. This is your chance to work at the largest dedicated CG animation studio in the UK, a place where “Blue Zoo animation Jobs” represent the pinnacle of character-driven storytelling and technical excellence.

At Blue Zoo, we don’t just make cartoons; we create joy. From the BAFTA-winning Numberblocks to the charming Adventures of Paddington, our work is defined by high-quality performance and a “heart-first” approach to production. As a Lead, you will be the bridge between the Director’s vision and the technical execution of your team, ensuring every frame pushes the boundaries of TV animation.

The Blue Zoo Vision: Animation as a Force for Good

Founded in 2000, Blue Zoo has spent over two decades building a world-class reputation for bold, fun, and characterful animation. We are proud to be a Certified B Corporation, meaning we meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

When you look for Blue Zoo animation Jobs, you are looking for a studio that prioritizes:

• The Workforce: Independently verified metrics ensure we improve the lives of our employees through fair pay and career development.

• Creative Excellence: Our shelves are full of BAFTAs, Annies, and Emmys, proving that ethical business practices and world-class art go hand-in-hand.

• A Brighter World: We use the power of animation to educate and entertain, making a tangible positive impact on audiences worldwide.

Detailed Responsibilities

As a Lead 3D Character Animator, your role is split between high-level artistic performance and strategic team management.

1. Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Direct Management: Lead a dedicated team of animators, acting as a role model for quality and professional conduct.

• Growth & Coaching: Mentor junior and mid-level artists, helping them achieve their career goals while providing clear, actionable direction in line with the Animation Director’s vision.

• Daily Synergy: Arrange and lead daily “catch-ups” to ensure the team is motivated, on track, and aware of upcoming milestones.

2. Artistic Mastery & Production

• Character Performance: Deliver expert-level comedic timing and charming acting choices that align with the project brief.

• Storytelling: Ensure that your team’s work communicates story beats and acting choices clearly, from the initial blocking phase through to the final polish.

• Efficiency: Manage your own shot load while overseeing the team’s output, ensuring all deadlines are met without compromising on quality.

3. Pipeline & Communication

• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Talk “up and down” the pipeline, working with Supervisors and Leads in other departments to troubleshoot technical issues and smooth out the production flow.

• Stakeholder Reporting: Keep the Head of Animation and Production informed of any potential risks to deadlines or team wellbeing.

• Feedback Integration: Respond positively to Director and Client notes, integrating changes swiftly and teaching your team how to do the same.

Requirements & Qualifications

We are looking for a veteran animator who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced TV production environment.

Must-Have Skills

• Artistic Excellence: An advanced understanding of body mechanics, posing, and performance. You should know how to squeeze every bit of personality out of a character rig.

• Software Proficiency: Expert knowledge of Maya.

• Leadership Track Record: Demonstrable experience as a team player and collaborator who can motivate others during tight deadlines.

• Time Management: Exceptional ability to prioritize tasks for both yourself and your direct reports.

• UK-Based: You must have the right to work in the UK and be based in the UK for the duration of the contract.

Bonus Points (The Competitive Edge)

• Technical Savvy: Knowledge of Python or MEL scripting to help automate tasks or improve tools.

• Production Tools: Familiarity with Shotgrid (Shotgun) or FTrack for asset and task management.

• Additional Creative Flair: Skills in drawing, acting, or dance that inform your animation choices.

• Industry Context: A deep understanding of the 3D production pipeline for episodic TV or high-end advertising.

Why Blue Zoo? (Benefits & Perks)

Working at Blue Zoo means joining a community that values your “whole self.” We have been named one of the “Best Places to Work in TV” multiple times (2019, 2020, 2022, 2024, and 2025).

• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and Profit Share (for employees with 2+ years of service).

• Flexibility: We offer genuine hybrid and flexible working options to support a healthy work-life balance.

• Creative Freedom: Participate in our inclusive self-funded shorts programme, where you can bring your own original ideas to life.

• Community & Fun: From remote social events to in-person parties and a bi-monthly employee engagement programme, we make sure our “Zoo” is a happy one.

• Support: Access to an online wellbeing programme and a culture that celebrates diversity and fresh perspectives.

Important Application Details

Blue Zoo is committed to building a diverse and inclusive studio. We invite everyone to “bring their whole selves” to work.

Pro-Tip: This vacancy may close early if we receive a high volume of applications. If you are a talented storyteller with a passion for leadership, do not wait—apply today to secure your place in our award-winning animation family.