Lead Animator
- newcastle upon tyne, tyne and wear, NE1 4AG, United Kingdom
- Permanent·On-site
- Full time
- £60,000 - £60,000 Per Annum
Job Description
About the Role
Our client, a renowned studio in Newcastle upon Tyne , is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Animator to spearhead their animation department. You will be responsible for guiding a team of talented animators, setting the animation quality bar, and ensuring the artistic and technical excellence of all animated content for upcoming projects. This pivotal role requires a strong understanding of animation principles, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for bringing characters and worlds to life with breathtaking visual fidelity. You will play a critical part in defining the animation style and pipeline, working collaboratively to achieve project milestones.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct and mentor a team of animators, providing clear feedback and fostering a productive work environment.
- Establish and enforce animation quality standards and best practices for all projects.
- Oversee the animation pipeline, from initial blocking to final polish, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality assets.
- Collaborate with directors and art leads to define character performances and visual storytelling through animation.
- Develop and implement innovative animation techniques and workflows to enhance efficiency and creative output.
- Conduct animation reviews and provide constructive critique to support team growth.
Requirements
- Minimum 7 years of professional animation experience, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.
- Expertise in character animation, including rigging, keyframing, and motion capture cleanup.
- Proficiency with industry-standard animation software such as Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max.
- A strong understanding of anatomy, physics, and timing to create believable and engaging performances.
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- A portfolio demonstrating outstanding animation quality and character performance across various styles.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous holiday allowance and company sick pay.
- Opportunities for career advancement and professional development within a growing studio.
- Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates moving to Newcastle upon Tyne .
- A dynamic and collaborative work atmosphere with regular team events.


