At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and create props for exciting animation projects, from concept to final approval.
- Company: Join Blue Zoo, a leading UK animation studio with a world-class reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Work in an inclusive environment that values diversity and promotes well-being.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team making impactful animations that resonate with audiences.
- Qualifications: Strong design skills, creativity, and experience in prop design are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
About The Role
As Senior Prop Designer you will be producing designs for props based on the style of the show.
Working from rough concept to final approved designs under the Art Director’s supervision.
You will explore and deliver final concepts based on relevant references, story and staging needs and work within the boundaries of a given brief.
You are always striving to improve your skills and are happy to support other members of the team.
We are very happy to discuss flexible, hybrid and remote working options for all our vacancies.
This role is due to start in Mid August 2026, on a fixed term contract (PAYE) until February 2027.
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
- Researching and providing exploratory sketches for props based on the approved brief with a focus on story and staging requirements
- Produce detailed drawings at correct scale, detailing any prop specifications within the set
- Collaborate/communicate with the Design and Asset Departments
- Working as part of a team to interpret assigned concepts and supporting other members of your team when required
- Managing your assets and time efficiently to meet deadlines
- Responding positively to notes and feedback
About You
- Must Have
- Strong aesthetic judgement with strong skills in drawing, painting and attention to detail
- Adaptable to different design requirements of the show – organic to mechanical etc
- A portfolio that demonstrates a variety of prop design options that fit into a story/world
- Be able to present work in a clear and concise manner that demonstrates thought process and purpose
- Strong knowledge of tools and software such as Cintiq, Photoshop, or other applicable design software
- Creative flair
- Good understanding of colour, lighting and value structure
- Strong understanding of volumes, turnarounds and spatial planning
- Able to visually develop and design props for 3D production through sophisticated exploratory designs.
- Being a team player and great collaborator
- Creative problem solving
- Able to give and receive design related feedback
- Excellent time management skills in meeting design deadlines from concept to final deliverables
- Bonus Points
- Understanding of 3D design and modelling workflow
- Good skills in graphic design and stylized textures is a plus
- A passion for cinematography or video games
- Knowledge of 3D animation workflow
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 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.
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UK ONLY | Experienced 3D Prop Designer employer: Blue Zoo Animation Studio
Blue Zoo Animation Studio is an exceptional employer that fosters a creative and collaborative work environment, perfect for aspiring artists looking to make their mark in the animation industry. With flexible hybrid and remote working options, employees enjoy a healthy work-life balance while having access to continuous growth opportunities through mentorship and hands-on experience with industry professionals. Join us to be part of a vibrant team where your artistic talents can flourish and contribute to captivating animated stories.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land UK ONLY | Experienced 3D Prop Designer
✨Get Your Portfolio Sparkling
For a temporary graphic design role, your portfolio is EVERYTHING! Make sure it showcases your best work, but also tailor it to include pieces that reflect the type of projects Blue Zoo Animation Studio might need. Consider creating a section dedicated to quick turnaround projects to highlight your ability to deliver under tight deadlines.
✨Tap into Local Creative Networks
Join local design groups or attend creative meetups in your area. These events are a goldmine for finding out about temporary opportunities. You might even meet someone from Blue Zoo Animation Studio or learn about upcoming gigs that aren't advertised online!
✨Social Media: Your Design Playground
Use platforms like Instagram or Behance to share your designs and connect with the design community. Tagging companies like Blue Zoo Animation Studio in your posts can grab their attention and show off your flair! Keep an eye on their social channels too; temporary roles often pop up there first.
✨Apply Early, Apply Often
Temporary roles can fill up fast, so don’t wait around! Check Blue Zoo Animation Studio’s careers page frequently and set up alerts if you can. If you see a position for a temporary graphic designer, jump on it! Remember, we’re here to support your journey, so use our website to help streamline your applications.
We think you need these skills to ace UK ONLY | Experienced 3D Prop Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Best Work:For a graphic design role like UK ONLY | Experienced 3D Prop Designer at Blue Zoo Animation Studio, your portfolio is everything! Make sure to include a variety of your designs that highlight your skills and creativity. Tailor it to reflect the style that resonates with Blue Zoo Animation Studio’s brand. Don’t forget to include any relevant temporary projects or collaborations – they show adaptability!
Emphasise Design Thinking:In your written application, focus on your design thinking process. Share how you approach a brief, from brainstorming to final execution. If you’ve taken any courses or received certifications related to graphic design, mention those too. This shows you're committed to the craft and eager to grow!
Tailor Your CV for Design:When crafting your CV for a temporary role, highlight specific design software you're proficient in – think Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma, etc. Be sure to include any freelance work or internships that demonstrate your relevant skills, as showcasing project diversity can make you stand out in a short-term role.
Express Your Availability:Since the role is temporary, it's crucial to mention your availability clearly in your cover letter. Let Blue Zoo Animation Studio know when you can start and how flexible you are with hours. Being upfront can help them see you as an ideal candidate who’s ready to jump right in!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Zoo Animation Studio
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Let’s be honest, in graphic design, your portfolio is your magic wand! Make sure to curate a selection of your best work that aligns with the style and needs of Blue Zoo Animation Studio. Bring physical copies if possible or have a tablet ready to show off your designs in action.
✨Familiarise with Design Tools
Be prepared to chat about the design tools you’re comfortable with, like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma. As it’s a temporary role, demonstrating your flexibility with various tools can give you an edge—don’t forget to mention any previous projects where you've used these skills!
✨Understand the Brand's Aesthetic
Take a good look at Blue Zoo Animation Studio’s branding before the interview. Understanding their visual identity and being ready to discuss how you can contribute to or enhance it will not only show that you’re interested, but also give you plenty to talk about during the interview!
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary gig, make sure to emphasise your adaptability and ability to work under tight deadlines. Share examples from past experiences where you've jumped in on projects quickly and delivered quality work—a must-have in the fast-paced world of graphic design!
