2026 INTERNSHIP - 3D Animator in London

Blue Zoo has a worldwide reputation for expertly crafting characterful CG animation. We pride ourselves on creating work that everyone involved with is immensely proud of, in a studio that cultivates friendship and creativity in a positive environment. Over the last 25 years our animations have won many awards, including multiple BAFTAs, but that’s just the start - we have big ambitions for the future!

Our internship programme runs every summer to give an opportunity to those seeking a “foot-in-the-door” into the animation industry. It is ideal for those who have zero professional experience but have entry level knowledge, such as those in their 2nd or 3rd year of university studying animation, who are eager to gain industry experience. These internships are also open to talented artists over the age of 18, who have a real passion for animation and can provide examples of work they have created.

Being an intern means more than just ‘helping out’. This year our interns will be working with Blue Zoo artists on some exciting projects - this is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable production experience with the brightest and best in the industry. The Blue Zoo Internship will give you the opportunity to develop your artistic and creative skills while building direct experience in a professional environment. You’ll work with other roles such as directors, storyboard artists, animators, etc. This will give you the chance to build your network, as well as developing a range of skills and gaining valuable industry experience.

This opportunity is for UK based applicants only and we ask that you are a commutable distance to our London Studio in Camden. This opportunity is full time and in a hybrid capacity, so you will be required to be in our studio at least three days per week. To be considered, candidates will have no previous industry experience - this includes any previous internship and paid experience. If you’ve done voluntary work experience, please state this clearly in your CV so we don’t discount your application. This internship will be paid the London Living Wage of £555 a week.

Applications open: Monday 11th May 2026, 9am
Applications close: Friday 29th May 2026, midnight
All applicants will be updated on their application by: Friday 19th June 2026
Contract Start date: Monday 29th June 2026
Contract End date: Friday 24th July 2026

Day to Day:

• Create animation under the direction of your mentor.
• Participate in team review sessions; you would get a taste of every step of a character animator's role.
• The aim is to get your animation skills up to a point where you are ready for employment on a real production.
• As a studio that focuses on cartoony character animation for TV production, we will teach our workflow on acting, giving characters personality and bringing them to life.
• Taking feedback from leads and the Animation Supervisor on the shots you are working on.

About You:

• Have a basic understanding of animation principles and knowledge of Maya.
• Self-motivated and driven.
• Enjoy working as part of a team.
• Willing to take direction and constructive feedback.
• A love for animation and a passion to learn more!

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 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.