Blue Zoo Animation Studio is looking for a visionary Senior 2D FX Artist to join our award-winning team. This is a unique opportunity for a hand-drawn effects specialist to contribute to a high-profile 2D TV production while working for one of the most ethically recognized studios in the global animation industry.
Job Overview : Senior 2D FX Artist
| Feature | Details |
| Company Name | Blue Zoo Animation Studio |
| Job Title | Senior 2D FX Artist |
| Salary | Competitive (Based on Seniority & Portfolio) |
| Job Type | Short-Term Contract (Approx. 6 Weeks) |
| Start Date | 11th May 2026 |
| Location | Regional UK Only (Must be based outside the M25) |
| Software Focus | Toon Boom Harmony |
| Studio Status | B Corp Certified |
About the Role as 2D FX Artist
As a Senior 2D FX Artist at Blue Zoo Animation, you are the master of the elements. Your role is to bridge the gap between character animation and the environment, adding the layers of polish that make a scene feel alive. Whether it is a subtle dust mote, a raging magical fire, or complex liquid splashes, your work provides the physical weight and energy that defines the show’s visual language.
This position requires a “pro-active creator” mindset. You aren’t just following a brief; you are looking for ways to elevate the storytelling through effects. You will be working within a tight-knit team where communication is as important as technical skill. Because this is a short-term, 6-week sprint, we need an artist who can hit the ground running on day one, maintaining a high level of output without sacrificing the “Blue Zoo” standard of excellence.
Primary Responsibilities as 2D FX Artist
- Hand-Animated Excellence: You will hand-animate custom 2D FX for various scenes, ensuring that the style perfectly matches the established aesthetic of the show. This involves a deep understanding of timing, spacing, and the “physics” of 2D animation.
- Library Management: You will be responsible for managing and maintaining the FX stock material library. This involves organizing assets so the wider FX team can work efficiently, ensuring consistency across the entire production.
- Toon Boom Harmony Integration: Beyond hand-drawing, you will create and implement particle systems directly within Toon Boom Harmony. You must understand how to integrate these systems into the production pipeline so they are ready for the compositing stage.
- Cross-Departmental Collaboration: You will liaise directly with the compositing team to resolve technical issues, ensuring that your FX layers are optimized for the final render.
- Precision Timing: You must match the timing and movement of your FX to the existing character animation in a scene, ensuring a cohesive and grounded look.
About You: Technical & Creative Requirements
Blue Zoo Animation is looking for a specialist. The ideal candidate has spent years refining the craft of 2D effects and understands the delicate balance between technical software knowledge and classical art principles.
Technical “Must-Haves”
- Toon Boom Harmony Mastery: You should know this software inside and out, specifically its drawing tools and particle generators.
- Classical Principles: A rock-solid understanding of the 12 principles of animation. You know how to apply squash, stretch, and anticipation to non-human elements like smoke, water, and fire.
- Pipeline Awareness: You have a thorough understanding of the 2D TV production pipeline, from layout to final composite.
- Design Sensibility: You possess strong drawing skills and can design FX that feel “on-model” for the specific series.
Soft Skills & Workflow
- Self-Motivation: In a fast-paced 6-week contract, you need to manage your own time and hit milestones independently.
- Receptive to Feedback: You view constructive criticism as a tool for growth and can pivot your designs quickly based on Director feedback.
- Collaborative Spirit: Even in a regional/remote capacity, you must be a clear and active communicator with your colleagues.
Bonus Qualifications
- Previous experience specifically on a 2D TV Series production.
- Technical knowledge of the Compositing phase (After Effects or Harmony Compositing), which helps in delivering “render-ready” assets.
Location & Eligibility: The Regional Requirement
Please Note: This is a Regional-specific vacancy. To meet our client requirements, we are only able to accept applications from talent currently residing in the United Kingdom, outside of the M25 motorway.
This initiative is part of our commitment to supporting the flourishing animation hubs across the UK regions (such as Manchester, Bristol, Cardiff, Belfast, and Scotland) and ensuring that high-level industry opportunities are accessible to artists outside of the London metropolitan area.
About Blue Zoo: A Different Kind of Studio
Blue Zoo Animation is not just another animation house; we are a community. Established in London in 2000, we have grown into the UK’s leading CG and 2D animation studio. Our shelves are lined with BAFTAs, Annies, and Emmys, but we are most proud of our B Corp Certification.
What is a B Corp Animation Studio?
Blue Zoo Animation is the first major animation studio in the world to receive this certification. It means we have been independently verified by B Lab to meet the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
- We prioritize the wellbeing of our staff over hollow corporate gestures.
- We invest in inclusive self-funded shorts, allowing our artists to explore their personal creative voices.
- We foster a culture where you can “bring your whole self” to work.
The “Blue Zoo Animation” Benefit Package
Even on a short-term contract, you are part of the family. Our culture includes:
- Award-Winning Workplace: Voted “Best Places to Work in TV” for six years running (2019-2026).
- Wellbeing Support: Access to our online wellbeing and mental health programmes.
- Social Engagement: Regular remote and in-person social events to keep the team connected across the UK.
- Diversity & Inclusion: We are committed to building a studio that reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We encourage applications from all backgrounds.
How to Apply
Due to the high demand for roles at Blue Zoo Animation and the specific 6-week window for this project, this vacancy may close early if we find the right candidate. We recommend applying as soon as possible.
Requirements for Application:
- Updated CV: Highlighting your experience with Toon Boom Harmony and 2D TV productions.
- Portfolio/Showreel: A link to your latest work, specifically showcasing your hand-animated 2D effects (explosions, liquids, magic, etc.).
- Location Confirmation: Please confirm you are based in the UK outside of the M25.
Join us in making work that makes the world a little bit happier. We look forward to seeing your reel!
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