Regional Only | 3D Character Animator - Entry Level

About the Role

Our junior animators deliver characterful animated performances that support the style and narrative of our projects. Their day‑to‑day focuses on comedic timing, charming acting choices, and production deadlines, whilst meeting the Director’s vision and client briefs. A junior animator at Blue Zoo is keen to learn, motivated, and can work productively, take direction, and be open to receiving feedback. This role is due to start from February/March 2026. This opportunity requires talent to be based regionally – in the UK, outside of the M25 as per client requirements. The successful candidate will need to be based in the UK and will require the right to work in the UK. Please note that this vacancy can close early if we receive a high number of applications.

Day to Day

• Work as part of a team of animators, communicating regularly with your Team Lead and Animation Director.
• Manage your time efficiently to meet the deadlines of your assigned shots.
• Ensure your work communicates the story, ideas and acting choices clearly from blocking through to the final animation.
• Respond positively to, and act on notes and feedback from your Director and Animation Director.

About You

Must have:

• Experience with body mechanics, posing and getting the best performance possible out of a character.
• A solid understanding of Maya or similar software.
• Ability to receive feedback and respond to direction.
• Time management and prioritising skills.
• Ability to share your knowledge and skills with other team members.
• Ability to be a team player and great collaborator.
• Creative problem‑solving skills.

Bonus points:

• Python or MEL script knowledge.
• Good at drawing / additional creative skills (acting / dance).
• Experience working with FTrack.

About Us

Blue Zoo is a leading animation studio in the UK, with a world‑class reputation as the go‑to place for creating bold, fun and characterful animation. Established in London in 2000, the studio has grown to become the largest dedicated CG animation studio in the UK, picking up a shelf full of BAFTAs, an Annie and an Emmy along the way! We couldn’t be prouder that Blue Zoo is the first major animation studio in the world to receive B Corp certification. We’ve been independently certified by B Lab, a non‑profit organisation. The certification verifies companies who are working to improve the lives of employees as well as industries as a whole. The certification process involves over 170 rigorous metrics to improve the lives of our staff, customers, suppliers and the local community, ensuring we are not just saying we are ethical with empty gestures, but independently evidencing it. We are going through an exciting period of growth and are building a studio that is full of amazingly talented, happy artists, making work they are proud of, which in turn makes a small contribution to a happier world. Blue Zoo believes that a healthy balance in our lives – whatever our situation – is key to supporting the wellbeing of our staff. We offer flexible working to support this. We look for people who have expertise, enthusiasm and are motivated to make things better. You’ll work alongside a talented and diverse group of people who respect each other’s differences and seek to understand and embrace fresh perspectives.

What we’ve got for you

• Winner of Broadcast Best Places to Work in TV 2019, 2020, 2022, 2024 & 2025.
• Inclusive self‑funded shorts programme.
• Many fun in person and remote social events throughout the year.
• Bi‑monthly employee feedback and engagement programme.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including loads of discounts and offers.
• Online wellbeing programme.
• Profit share (for employees who have been with us for 2+ years).

Blue Zoo is committed to creating and nurturing an inclusive studio that promotes and values diversity and invites everyone to ‘bring their whole selves’ to work. We believe that companies that truly embrace and value diversity, and create an environment where everyone from any background can do their best work, are better companies. To be engaged our people have to feel included and valued. We work hard to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is embedded in the way we work, not just an initiative. We strive to engender a studio community that feels a deep sense of pride and commitment that transcends any role, department or level and works together to produce excellent and engaging work.