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- Tasks: Support the Production Team in creating amazing stop-motion animations.
- Company: Join Aardman, a multi-award-winning animation studio known for its creativity.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract with competitive salary and a vibrant work culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a legendary team that brings characters to life on screen.
- Qualifications: Previous Runner/3rd AD experience and good computer skills required.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Start Date: ASAP January 2026
Full Time: 45 hours per week
Contract: Fixed Term Contract until 17th April 2026
Salary: Dependant on experience
Location: Aztec West
The Role: An exciting opportunity to work in the Production dept for a stop frame feature Aardman Animations. 3rd AD is an integral role within the Production Team. The Production Team are responsible for creating a well-motivated and organised working environment to support the creative process. The role requires excellent awareness of the needs of the studio environment; good organizational skills and the ability to ensure tasks are completed efficiently to the required standard in calm and courteous manner.
About You The Candidate: The successful candidate will directly support the 1st and 2nd AD on the studio floor by liaising with all departments to ensure correct assets are on set for frame ups and director visits. You will ensure units are prepped for shooting and animators have everything they need on set to minimise turnaround times. We are looking for someone with previous Runner/3rd AD production experience. Experience using Word and Excel are essential and reasonable computer skills are necessary. Previous stop motion experience is desirable.
Please confirm your salary expectations and availability in your Cover Letter or relevant supporting documents. Closing Date for applications is Thursday 18th December 2025.
About Us About Aardman: Aardman is an independent and multi-Academy Award and BAFTA award winning studio. It produces feature films, series, advertising, games and interactive entertainment. Its productions are global in appeal, novel, entertaining, brilliantly characterised and full of charm reflecting the unique talent, energy and personal commitment of the Aardman team. The studio's work is often imitated, and yet the company continues to lead the field producing a rare brand of visually stunning content for cinema, broadcasters, digital platforms and live experiences around the world. In November 2018, Aardman became an Employee Owned organisation, ensuring that the studio remains independent and securing the creative legacy and culture of the company for the future.
Our Diversity & Inclusion Charter is our commitment to building a workforce that is truly reflective of society, underpinned by the belief that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential in delivering on our mission: to create entertainment for all and to be the most inspirational animation company in the world. We welcome applications from all individuals and are always happy to discuss flexible working needs. We've signed the Age-friendly Employer Pledge, a nationwide programme run by the Centre for Ageing Better to make workplaces age-friendly, and Aardman is also proud to be a Disability Confident Employer.
3rd AD employer: Aardman Animations
Contact Detail:
Aardman Animations Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 3rd AD
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those who have worked at Aardman or similar studios. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for advice or insights. You never know who might help you land that 3rd AD role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous Runner/3rd AD experience. Include any relevant projects, especially if you've dabbled in stop motion. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to Aardman or other studios with a friendly email expressing your interest. Sometimes, opportunities come from simply putting yourself out there!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to tailor your cover letter to highlight your organisational skills and how you can support the production team effectively. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace 3rd AD
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to personalise your cover letter for the 3rd AD role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with what Aardman is looking for. We want to see your passion for stop motion and how you can contribute to our creative environment!
Show Off Your Organisational Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've successfully managed tasks in a busy production setting. We love candidates who can demonstrate their ability to keep things running smoothly, so don’t hold back on sharing your experiences!
Be Clear About Your Availability: Since we’re looking for someone to start ASAP in January 2026, make sure to clearly state your availability in your cover letter. This helps us understand when you can jump into the action and support our team effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aardman Animations
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a 3rd AD and how they fit into the production team. Familiarise yourself with the studio environment and the specific needs of stop motion animation. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples from your previous experience where you successfully managed tasks or supported a team in a busy environment. Highlight your ability to keep things running smoothly, especially under pressure, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Brush Up on Your Tech Skills
Since experience with Word and Excel is essential, make sure you're comfortable using these tools. You might be asked about how you've used them in past roles, so be ready to discuss specific tasks or projects where you utilised these skills effectively.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Teamwork
The role involves liaising with various departments, so be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Share stories that highlight your communication skills and how you’ve contributed to a positive working environment, which aligns with Aardman's values.