Hiring 3D Animator job at SHED

SHED is seeking a visionary 3D Animator to join our elite team of specialists for an upcoming slate of high-end advertising projects. At SHED, we don’t just move objects; we breathe life into stories. We are looking for an artist who understands that animation is the soul of the narrative—someone who can translate storyboards into evocative performances that resonate with audiences on an emotional level.

This is a temporary contract position starting in June 2026, offering the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of global artists in a studio environment that prizes commitment, mutual aid, and direct communication.

Job Overview: 3D Animator

Compensation and Professional Growth

SHED offers a competitive salary structure tailored to the fast-paced world of advertising and high-end visual effects. Final remuneration is determined by the candidate’s portfolio, technical proficiency, and specific experience in cartoon-style or photorealistic animation.

Note: As this is a contract position, specific benefits and project-based bonuses will be discussed during the interview phase based on the duration of the engagement.

The Mission: Your Responsibilities

As a 3D Animator at SHED, you are the primary storyteller. You will be tasked with interpreting the narrative spirit of a shot and conveying it through the nuanced gestures and facial expressions of our characters.

1. Performance and Acting

• Character Artistry: Create compelling character acting and animate 3D objects with a focus on emotion and narrative intent.
• Interpretation: Take static storyboards and transform them into dynamic 3D layout scenes.
• Reference Work: Shoot or research your own animation references to ensure authenticity in movement and weight.

2. Technical Execution

• Pipeline Integration: Export high-quality alembics for the lighting and simulation departments, ensuring a smooth handoff.

• Layout and Composition: Create layout scenes including character, environment, and camera placement to establish the visual foundation of a shot.

• Continuity: Maintain strict continuity of actions and character traits from shot to shot across the entire project.

3. Collaboration and Pipeline Development

• Rigging Liaison: Work closely with the rigging team to provide feedback on character setups and controls.

• Proactive Improvement: Be involved in departmental decisions and recommend continuous improvements to our animation pipeline.

• Progress Reporting: Provide supervisors and producers with clear, analytical progress reports and prepare presentation materials for client approvals.

What We Are Looking For

We want to meet artists who are passionate about the “why” behind a movement. You should be an expert at balancing the technical constraints of a rig with the artistic needs of the script.

• Academic Background: A degree in a 3D animation program is required. A degree in a traditional 2D animation program is considered a significant asset.

• Professional Experience: Proven experience in film, advertising, or television. Specific experience in cartoon-style animation projects is highly valued.

• Core Principles: A masterful understanding of the 12 principles of animation: posing, timing, weight, squash and stretch, and lip sync.

• Technical Knowledge: While Maya and Studio Library are your primary tools, knowledge of Shotgrid and Rigging fundamentals will help you excel in our environment.

• Analytical Approach: The ability to execute corrections requested by supervisors or the director in an analytical and efficient manner.

Environment and Working Conditions

At SHED, you will be part of a specialized group of animation professionals. Depending on the scale of the production, you will either take full responsibility for specific sequences or collaborate with colleagues located around the world.

We believe in a healthy work environment. We value:

• Commitment: Dedication to the craft and the final output.

• Mutual Aid: A culture where artists help each other overcome technical and creative hurdles.

• Direct Communication: Flat hierarchies where your voice matters and your recommendations are heard.

Whether you are looking to sharpen your skills within a specific discipline or are eager to take on new technical challenges, SHED provides the perfect playground for your creativity.

How to Apply

If you are a 3D Animator ready to bring world-class advertising projects to life, we invite you to apply for this June 2026 opening.

Required Application Materials:

1. Portfolio/Demo Reel: Showcasing strong character performance, timing, and weight.

2. Resume: Detailing your experience in advertising or feature film.

3. Shot Breakdown: A clear document explaining your specific contributions to each shot in your reel.

Join SHED and help us define the next generation of visual storytelling.