Cinematic Animator

Overview

This is a hybrid role in Vancouver.
Pay Range: $60/hr – $65/hr​

We are seeking a highly creative and motivated Cinematic Animator. In this position, you will be expected to work closely with the Animation Lead to deliver high-quality animations. You should be comfortable collaborating with Engineers, Technical Animation and Rigging Directors in the development of our animation tools, pipelines, and systems.
We value candidates who are not only technically skilled but also proactive in identifying and resolving issues before they impact deadlines. The ideal candidate will possess a strongsolid understanding of cinematic camera work, particularly with a handheld visual style, and demonstrate the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Create character/creature motions through a blend of key-frame animation and motion capture.
• Collaborate with the Lead Cinematic Animator to implement the overall creative direction of our product.
• Deliver high-quality body and facial animation assets with speed, precision, and attention to detail.
• Contribute to animation tests, previs, layout, and final shot animation.
• Assist with motion capture shoots and help define technical and creative requirements.
• Actively communicate progress and potential issues, flagging risks ahead of deadlines.

REQUIREMENTS:

• 3–7+ years of experience creating high-quality character and creature animation.
• Proficiency in both key-frame and motion capture animation.
• Proven experience animating realistic humans, with an emphasis on expressive and accurate facial animation.
• Prior experience working with FACS-based rigs for facial animation is a must.
• A keen grasp of body mechanics, timing, weight, and shot composition to deliver believable character performances.
• A solid understanding of cinematic camera work, especially handheld styles used in storytelling and visual exploration.
• Experience using Maya (preferred); MotionBuilder is a plus.
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine, Sequencer, and its interface, with a willingness to problem-solve creatively within the engine environment.
• Ability to work quickly and adaptively, maintaining high quality under tight timelines.
• Proactive communication skills with a team-focused mindset.
• Technical understanding of animation tools, pipelines, and systems is a plus.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to contribute creatively and technically.
• Demoreels that demonstrate experience in the above areas are highly preferred.

The target hiring compensation range for this role is $60/hr – $65/hr. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location. Additional benefits offered may include: https://aquent.com/talent/talent-benefits

Client Description:
You will want to read this fine print. Part of our mission is to take care of you, so we offer the best benefits. Unlike other staffing companies, we provide talent with the same benefits that our CEO gets. This includes:

• A choice of three major medical plans (including vision coverage) plus dental insurance
• Paid sick leave for all hourly talent in the U.S. and Canada
• 401(k) with a match and immediate vesting
• Exclusive employee discounts through Promo Code: Aquent
• Access to hundreds of professional development courses through Aquent Gymnasium
• And much more

Aquent is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. The Company recruits, hires, trains, promotes, compensates, and administers all personnel actions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status of an individual or that individual’s associates or relatives.

We have a simple philosophy at Aquent: to personally place the best creative talent in the best jobs for the best companies. When you work for Aquent, you qualify for medical, dental and vision insurance after working only four consecutive weeks maintaining an average of 20 hours per week. If this job isn’t the right fit for you, but you know someone who is, please pass this job posting on. We have a fantastic referral program that pays out in cash rewards! 

LEARN MORE HERE: http://aquent.com/rewards/

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