At a Glance
- Tasks: Create magical 2D effects for an exciting feature film and enhance its visual storytelling.
- Company: Join Skydance Animation, a leader in innovative animated films.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, creative environment, and the chance to work on high-profile projects.
- Other info: Work remotely from select locations and collaborate with talented artists.
- Why this job: Bring your artistic vision to life and shape the film's magical aesthetic.
- Qualifications: 1+ year in 2D animation, strong effects skills, and proficiency in animation software.
The predicted salary is between 11500 - 140000 £ per year.
Skydance Animation is seeking a temporary freelance 2D Effects Animator to explore magical effects for an upcoming feature film. The effects created will help shape the film's visual tone and push its artistic language forward. While the focus will be primarily on magic, there will be additional work in water, fire, smoke, debris, and other elemental effects, all developed to align with the film's artistic aesthetic. You'll work closely with the Visual Development team and report to the Production Designer.
Demo reel or portfolio required, demonstrating a range of 2D effects work. Reels highlighting effects timing, physics, and integration with character performance are strongly preferred over technique reels alone.
Must be in one of the following locations: California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, United Kingdom, or Spain.
Responsibilities- Design 2D effects, both hand-drawn and digitally composited, that elevate character performance and enhance the emotional weight and cinematic quality of every scene.
- Collaborate with the Production Designer, show leadership, and Visual Development artists to iterate on and develop magical effects.
- Brainstorm, define, and help establish the visual language for varying styles of magic across the film.
- Maintain consistency and nuance in effects style and timing across sequences, factoring in weight, physics, and elemental performance within a narrative context.
- Apply core animation principles to ensure fluid, believable motion and clear, readable silhouettes.
- Troubleshoot and problem-solve technical and creative effects challenges within pipeline constraints.
- 1+ year of experience in 2D animation or visual development, with a focus on effects.
- Traditional 2D animation background.
- Proficiency in relevant animation/effects software (e.g., Photoshop, Nuke, After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, TVPaint, or similar).
- Strong grasp of timing, weight, and physics as applied to effects animation.
- Ability to take direction and iterate quickly.
- Creative mindset with the ability to conceptualize ideas and bring them to life.
The compensation range for this non-exempt position in Los Angeles, CA or the Tri-State Area (New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey) is $115,000-140,000 annually. The rate offered may vary based on the candidate’s location, qualifications, experience and relevant expertise, among other factors. The range indicated is for base salary only and does not reflect the total compensation package, including bonus, benefits, etc. This compensation range is not applicable to the United Kingdom and Spain.
2D Effects Artist (Temporary/Freelance) employer: Skydance
Skydance Animation is an exceptional employer that fosters a creative and collaborative work environment, perfect for artists looking to make a significant impact in the animation industry. With opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work alongside talented teams in vibrant locations like California and New York, employees can thrive while contributing to visually stunning projects. The company values innovation and artistic expression, making it an ideal place for passionate 2D Effects Artists to develop their skills and bring magical effects to life.
