Job Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Job Location | Hybrid/Flexible, Vancouver |
| Job Type | 2 month contract |
| Union Status | Union position (terms covered by a collective agreement) |
| Required Experience | 3+ years in animation or film industry |
| Experience Level | Senior |
Executive Summary and Role Overview ::
WildBrain Studios, a global leader in award-winning animation and family content , is announcing a significant hiring drive for Senior Lighter/Compositor Artists (Gaffers) to join our highly creative team. We are actively recruiting for multiple two-month contract positions, with the anticipated start date in early February 2026 . This is a senior-level opportunity that demands a minimum of three years of experience in the animation or film industry. The role is based in Vancouver, offering a Hybrid/Flexible work arrangement , and is covered by a collective bargaining agreement
The Senior Lighter/Compositor will report directly to the Producer and collaborate closely with the Lighting/Comp Supervisor. This pivotal position requires a broad range of lighting abilities to conceptualize and establish the overall look, style, and attitude of both characters and environments within the production. The artist will be expected to work collaboratively with the entire lighting and compositing team, delivering both aesthetically superior and technically sound work. At WildBrain, we strive for quality content and an artist-centric culture that invests in professional growth and a healthy work-life balance
Core Responsibilities and Technical Leadership
As a Senior Lighter/Compositor, you will serve as a technical and creative leader within your assigned sequences. Your primary functions will focus on establishing the highest quality standards and ensuring efficient workflow across the team:
| Key Shot Development: | Light sequence key shots based on established art direction and templates set up by leads. |
| Quality and Timeliness: | Deliver all key shots on time and maintain the expected quality standards for cinematic output. |
| Reference and Guidance: | Act as the main point of contact and reference for the lighting of assigned sequences. |
| Team Enablement: | Ensure the rest of the lighting/compositing team can work efficiently using the setups you create. |
| Mentorship and Training: | Train and advise other lighters and compositors on the most efficient methods to propagate your key shots lighting to their subsequent shots. |
| Pipeline Management: | Work proficiently within the established lighting and rendering pipeline, demonstrating the ability to troubleshoot common technical issues as they arise. |
| Communication: | Maintain regular and effective communication with team members and the Production staff. |
| Proactive Issue Reporting: | Identify and promptly report any technical or creative issues that could potentially affect delivery schedules or timelines. |
Essential Qualifications and Skillset
WildBrain Studios is seeking highly skilled professionals whose experience will immediately contribute to complex animated projects. Successful applicants will need to demonstrate both technical mastery and strong collaboration skills:
- Professional Experience:
- A minimum of three (3) years of experience is required within the film or animation industry.
- Software Proficiency:
- Mandatory experience with Gaffer, or node-based software such as Katana/Solaris, combined with expertise in Nuke.
- Production Background:
- Proven previous experience in lighting and compositing roles on animated feature films or episodic series is essential.
- VFX Workflow Comprehension:
- A comprehensive and good understanding of the entire 3D pipeline, including modeling, texturing, shading, lighting, compositing, and rendering workflows, is necessary.
- Teamwork and Communication:
- The ability to take direction effectively, collaborate successfully, and communicate creative and technical thoughts in a positive and professional manner are critical requirements.
- Work Ethic:
- Demonstrated capacity to multitask, prioritize duties, and manage time efficiently, working effectively both independently and collaboratively, often under deadline pressure.
- Adaptability:
- Must possess an encouraging attitude towards feedback, new initiatives , and demonstrate the flexibility required to adapt to multiple show styles and embrace change.
- Desirable Skills:
- Knowledge of Flow Production Tracking software is considered a valuable asset.
Compensation and Studio Environment
| Compensation: | The advertised pay range for this 40-hour work week position is $1390–$1950 CAD per week. The specific compensation offered will be based on the individual’s level, experience, skills, and the responsibilities and expectations of the role, in consideration of internal equity. |
| Benefits and Perks: | Employees are provided with a comprehensive benefits package, including RRSP matching, multi-tiered benefits for personalized coverage, and access to free mental health resources. The company also organizes regular events for virtual and in-person team connection. Further details on benefits can be found via the IATSE Local 938 site. |
| Location and Culture: | While the custom-built studio is located in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia , WildBrain supports a flexible workforce across BC, Canada, and internationally. The company fosters a creative, artist-centric culture providing training, growth opportunities, and fun activities. |
| Commitment to Inclusion: | WildBrain Studios actively promotes inclusion, equity, and diversity, offering an environment free from barriers. The studio ensures a supportive culture that welcomes equal opportunities for all and accommodates people with disabilities throughout the selection process. |