Character Lead TD – DNEG Animation

DNEG’s Feature Animation division is seeking a highly skilled Character Lead TD to join our expanding London team. As we continue to collaborate with major Hollywood studios and independent filmmakers to deliver world-class animated features, we are looking for a visionary technical leader to guide our rigging efforts and set the gold standard for character production.

About the Role

DNEG’s Feature Animation division has been steadily growing, collaborating with major Hollywood studios and independent productions to deliver world-class animated features. As we continue to expand, we’re looking for a Character Lead TD to help guide our rigging efforts and ensure the highest standards of quality.

As a Character Lead TD, you will design animation rigs for characters, creatures, props, and vehicles, working closely with Rigging Supervisors and Animation Leads. Beyond technical skills, you’ll play a key leadership role — mentoring junior artists, assigning tasks, and ensuring seamless communication across departments.

Job Summary : Character Lead TD

What We’re Looking For

✅ Proven experience on high-quality character/creature projects
✅ Strong expertise in Maya and rigging workflows
✅ Thorough knowledge of rigging specializations (body, face, mechanical rigs)
✅ Comfortable with both technical & artistic aspects of rigging
✅ Solid understanding of human anatomy, linear algebra, vector math
✅ Skilled in Python (OOP) and scripting for pipeline efficiency
✅ Strong leadership and mentoring abilities

Nice to Have:

• Maya API knowledge
• C++ experience
• QT or PySide knowledge

About You

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Proactive and adaptable problem-solver
• Organized with strong task-management skills
• Clear communicator with excellent time management
• Courteous, approachable, and able to give/receive direction

Qualifications

• Industry Experience: A proven track record of success on high-quality character or creature-based animation projects.
• Technical Expertise: Mastery of Maya and professional rigging workflows, including body, face, and mechanical systems.
• Mathematical Foundation: Strong understanding of linear algebra and vector math, essential for solving complex rigging and deformation challenges.
• Scripting Skills: Proficiency in Python (OOP) is required. Familiarity with Maya API, C++, or QT/PySide is considered a significant asset.
• Soft Skills: A collaborative, team-oriented mindset with excellent task-management and communication skills. You should be proactive, adaptable, and comfortable giving or receiving constructive direction.

Why Join DNEG?

At DNEG, every production is an opportunity to create something extraordinary. With a slate of major animated features in development, you’ll be working with some of the best global talent in the industry to bring iconic characters and worlds to life.

We are one of the world’s leading visual effects and animation companies, employing over 9,000 people across studios in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion — fostering an environment where everyone belongs and can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are happy to provide accommodations throughout the hiring process.

How to Apply

To apply for the Character Lead TD position at DNEG Animation, please follow these steps:

1. Prepare Your Materials: Ensure your CV is up to date and your showreel is ready. Your reel should clearly demonstrate your technical rigging expertise, specifically showcasing:

   • Complex body and facial rigs.

   • Examples of pipeline tools or scripts you have developed in Python.

   • Evidence of character deformation and mechanical rigging skills.

2. Submit Your Application: Visit the DNEG Careers Page to search for the Character Lead TD (Feature Animation) role in the London studio.

3. Application Process: Follow the instructions on the job posting to upload your documents. Ensure your cover letter highlights your leadership experience and your ability to mentor junior artists.