At a Glance
- Tasks: Bring characters to life through engaging animations and storytelling.
- Company: Join Blue Zoo, a leading animation studio known for creativity and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Be part of a fun, inclusive culture with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in animation while learning from industry experts.
- Qualifications: Strong understanding of character performance and knowledge of 3D software.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Blue Zoo Animation Studio is looking for entry-level 3D Character Animators who can bring characters to life through expressive and engaging performances. As a Junior Animator, you’ll contribute to projects filled with personality, humor, and heart — supporting the Director’s creative vision and delivering to client expectations. Your day-to-day will involve crafting characterful performances with great timing, charm, and storytelling clarity. You’ll work collaboratively within the animation team, taking direction, applying feedback, and continuously developing your craft.
Start Dates: December 2025 & January 2026. We’re open to flexible, hybrid, and remote working arrangements. However, applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK and ideally live within commuting distance of our Brighton Zoo studio. Please note — applications may close early if we receive a large volume of candidates.
Key Responsibilities
- Work collaboratively with other animators, Team Leads, and the Animation Director.
- Deliver expressive, story-driven animations that align with the project’s tone and narrative.
- Manage time efficiently to meet shot deadlines and production schedules.
- Clearly communicate story ideas and acting choices from blocking to final polish.
- Take feedback constructively and implement notes effectively.
About You
Must Have:
- Strong understanding of body mechanics, posing, and character performance.
- Solid working knowledge of Autodesk Maya (or similar 3D software).
- Openness to feedback and strong communication skills.
- Excellent time management and prioritization abilities.
- A collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
- Creative problem-solving skills and eagerness to learn.
Bonus Skills:
- Basic Python or MEL scripting knowledge.
- Drawing, acting, or dance skills that enhance performance understanding.
- Familiarity with FTrack or similar production tracking tools.
About Blue Zoo Animation Studio
Founded in 2000, Blue Zoo is one of the UK’s leading animation studios — home to award-winning CG projects and celebrated for its bold, characterful storytelling. Over the years, we’ve earned multiple BAFTAs, an Annie Award, and an Emmy, building a reputation for creative excellence and a people-first culture. We’re proud to be the first major animation studio in the world to achieve B Corp certification, recognizing our ongoing efforts to improve the wellbeing of our employees, industry, and community. As we continue to grow, we’re building a studio filled with talented, happy artists who love what they do and contribute to making the world a little brighter through their work.
Recognized as one of Broadcast’s Best Places to Work in TV (2019, 2020, 2022, 2024, 2025). Inclusive, self-funded shorts programme. Fun, regular in-person and virtual social events. Bi-monthly employee feedback sessions and engagement programs. Comprehensive benefits package, including discounts and wellbeing initiatives. Profit share for long-term employees (2+ years). A culture built on inclusion, respect, and creativity.
At Blue Zoo, we’re committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong. We celebrate individuality and encourage every team member to bring their full selves to work. If you’re an enthusiastic, creative, and motivated animator ready to learn and grow with one of the UK’s most respected studios — we’d love to hear from you. Join Blue Zoo and help us create animation that makes the world smile.
Blue Zoo Animation Studio – 3D Character Animator (Entry Level) in Brighton employer: Festybay
At King, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. As a Principal VFX Artist in our New Games Studio, you'll have the opportunity to lead innovative projects while benefiting from our commitment to employee growth, competitive compensation, and a supportive environment that encourages work-life balance. Located in dynamic cities like London, our studios are designed to inspire, providing you with the resources and community to push the boundaries of mobile gaming.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Blue Zoo Animation Studio – 3D Character Animator (Entry Level) in Brighton
✨Join Design Communities
Get involved in online platforms like Behance or Dribbble, where designers showcase their work. These communities often have job boards or contests that can help you land that entry-level graphic design gig we’re all after!
✨Attend Local Design Meetups
Check out local design meetups or workshops in your area. They’re fantastic for networking, and who knows? You might meet someone from Festybay looking for fresh talent like you to join their team!
✨Build Your Portfolio
We can't stress this enough—having a strong portfolio is key! Even if you lack professional experience, use class projects or personal work to showcase your skills. Make sure to include it in your application when you apply at Festybay.
✨Apply Through Our Website!
Don’t forget to send your application directly through our website! It shows you’re proactive and really interested in the position. Plus, it helps us keep track of applicants much more efficiently!
We think you need these skills to ace Blue Zoo Animation Studio – 3D Character Animator (Entry Level) in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio:As a graphic designer, your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure to showcase your best work, including any projects from school or personal endeavours. We want to see your creativity in action, so highlight different styles and techniques that represent your unique flair.
Tailor Your CV for Design Roles:When you're putting together your CV, lean into the graphic design lingo. List relevant skills like software proficiency (think Adobe Creative Suite) and any design techniques you're familiar with. Since it's entry-level, don’t sweat too much about experience – showcase your passion for design instead!
Craft a Design-Savvy Cover Letter:Your cover letter shouldn't just be text on a page; it’s your chance to show your design skills! Use layout and typography to create something eye-catching while keeping it professional. Talk about why you're interested in Festybay and the role of Blue Zoo Animation Studio – 3D Character Animator (Entry Level) – we love seeing enthusiasm!
Be Ready to Discuss Your Design Process:In addition to your written application, be prepared to discuss your design process in interviews. Whether it's how you come up with ideas or the steps you take to finalise a project, being able to articulate your approach impressively shows your depth as a designer and will set you apart!
How to prepare for a job interview at Festybay
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a slick, well-organised portfolio showcasing your best graphic design work. Include a variety of projects that highlight different skills—think branding, digital design, and print. Be ready to discuss your creative process and the tools you used, like Adobe Creative Suite.
✨Know Your Design Principles
Brush up on fundamental design principles like typography, colour theory, and composition. You might get asked about how these concepts influence your work or even face some design-based challenges. Keep it fresh, and be prepared to chat about why you made certain creative choices in your projects.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As it’s an entry-level role, emphasize your eagerness to learn and grow. Talk about any relevant coursework, internships, or personal projects you've taken on that reflect your passion and adaptability in a fast-evolving field like graphic design. This will resonate with Festybay as they look for fresh talent with potential.
✨Prepare for Feedback Questions
Expect questions about how you handle feedback—it's a big part of design work. Be ready to share specific examples of when you received constructive criticism on your designs and how you implemented it to improve your work. This shows that you're open to collaboration and iteration, which is key in graphic design.
