Motion Editor (All Levels) - ILM London

Motion Editor (All Levels) - ILM London

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Industrial Light & Magic

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Edit and retarget motion-capture performances for high-quality animations.
  • Company: Join the creative team at ILM London, a leader in visual effects.
  • Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive pay, and opportunities for career growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with mentorship opportunities for all levels.
  • Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects and enhance your animation skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in VFX or gaming, with a strong showreel and knowledge of animation software.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

ILM London is looking for Motion Editors (all levels) to join our team based in our Lacon House studio. The Motion Editor's main responsibility will be to retarget and edit the body motion of realistic motion-capture-based performances in a non-destructive way. We also seek candidates who have a good eye and an understanding of motion blending to create fluid, believable transitions. The work will focus predominantly on humans, props and bipedal characters, extending to quadrupeds when required. The ideal person for this role thrives in a collaborative environment and consistently strives to deliver animations to high-quality standards. We are offering various contract lengths with opportunities commencing from Summer 2026.

What you’ll do:

  • Transfer motion from one hierarchy to another (retargeting) independently and proficiently.
  • Subtly enhance the nuances of a performance while maintaining its original intent, delivering seamless, high-quality results without compromising the source data.
  • Adjust interaction and contacts between characters, props, the environment, and terrain.
  • Improve the performance by adding fingers, toe, and tail animation, as well as making body adjustments that enhance posture, gesture, and weight.
  • Blend motions to create fluid, believable transitions between distinct animation clips.
  • For senior-level roles, support and mentor more junior members of the team, troubleshoot, teach techniques, and push the quality and standard.

What we’re looking for:

  • Proven experience in the high end film VFX or video game industry, along with an up-to-date showreel.
  • Previous background and experience using MotionBuilder, Blender, Nuance, and/or Maya with motion-captured performances.
  • An understanding of retargeting techniques and the principles of animation.
  • Sharp eyes for motion, timing, and posture.
  • A proactive approach to problem solving, with a keen eye to catch, analyze, and identify technical issues.
  • Attention to detail and communication skills, coupled with excellent collaborative skills.
  • An eagerness to learn and develop.
  • A background in using Linux and Vicon Shogun Post is a plus.

As part of your application please submit a demo reel, shot breakdown, or equivalent showcasing your work. A current resume is required. This role is Hybrid, which means the employee will be encouraged to work 2 days on-site per week at a Company designated location, and occasionally from home.

Motion Editor (All Levels) - ILM London employer: Industrial Light & Magic

ILM London is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and creative work culture, perfect for Motion Editors at all levels. With opportunities for professional growth and mentorship, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while working on high-quality projects in the heart of London. The hybrid work model allows for flexibility, ensuring a balanced approach to work and life, making it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.

Industrial Light & Magic

Contact Details:

Industrial Light & Magic Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Motion Editor (All Levels) - ILM London

Tip Number 1

Get your showreel sorted! Make sure it highlights your best work, especially any motion-capture projects. We want to see your skills in action, so keep it fresh and relevant to the Motion Editor role.

Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend events, or join online forums. We’re all about collaboration, so making connections can really help you land that dream job with us at ILM.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical skills. Be ready to discuss retargeting techniques and animation principles. We love candidates who can talk shop and show they know their stuff!

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to learn and grow with us at ILM.

We think you need these skills to ace Motion Editor (All Levels) - ILM London

Motion Editing
Retargeting Techniques
Animation Principles
MotionBuilder
Blender
Nuance
Maya

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Skills:Make sure to include a demo reel that highlights your best work. We want to see your motion editing skills in action, so pick clips that showcase your ability to retarget and enhance performances.

Tailor Your Resume:Your resume should reflect your experience in the VFX or video game industry. Highlight any relevant projects and tools you've used, like MotionBuilder or Blender, to show us you’re the right fit for the role.

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your points are easy to understand and directly related to the job description.

Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position.

How to prepare for a job interview at Industrial Light & Magic

Showcase Your Showreel

Make sure to bring your A-game with your showreel! Highlight your best work that aligns with the role of a Motion Editor. Focus on projects that demonstrate your skills in retargeting and motion blending, as these are key aspects of the job.

Know Your Tools

Familiarise yourself with the software mentioned in the job description, like MotionBuilder, Blender, and Maya. Be ready to discuss your experience with these tools and how you've used them to solve problems or enhance performances in past projects.

Demonstrate Collaboration Skills

Since this role thrives in a collaborative environment, be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Talk about any mentoring experiences you have, especially if you're applying for a senior position, as this will show your leadership potential.

Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare some thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, project expectations, or the creative process at ILM. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company culture is the right fit for you.