UK only | 3D Layout Artist

We are looking for an experienced 3D Layout Artist who is interested in cinematography and animation to join us for an exciting new production at Blue Zoo! The successful candidate will need to be based in the UK and will require the right to work in the UK. We are very happy to discuss flexible, hybrid and remote working options for all our vacancies. Please note that this vacancy can close early if we receive a high number of applications.

Day To Day

• Working with the Director, Art Director, CG, Asset and Animation Supervisors to build scene set ups in line with approved client Animatics.
• Create rough layouts, defining the initial character staging and cameras within a scene, as well as refining and polishing shots provided by 3D Assets.
• Make sure all scenes are working within the required pipeline set up to be delivered to the animation department.
• Adapt and refine cameras based on Director critiques and changes.
• Liaise with the Storyboard, Assets and Animation departments to create layouts that work towards the Directors intended vision, this will involve assembling some new layouts using 2D colourcards and potentially 2D graphics.

About You

Must Have:

• Good knowledge of Photoshop and Maya to clean scene set ups.
• Possess a strong sense of animation timing.
• Good understanding of cinematography, pacing, timing and general filmmaking concepts.
• Knowledge of CG Animation techniques and of CG pipeline.
• Can manage their time and work independently, but also work well in a team.
• Self-motivated and able to work calmly under pressure, responding well to feedback.
• Very strong communication skills and the initiative to liaise with other departments.
• Demonstrable artistic skills including a strong sense of composition and perspective, the ability to create atmosphere and a good understanding of editing.

Bonus Points:

• A passion for cinematography or video games.
• Knowledge of basic compositing in Nuke or After Effects.

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 who award the B Corp certification. 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 & 2026.
• 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.