Motion Editor (Performance Capture Animator - All Levels) - ILM London

Motion Editor (Performance Capture Animator - All Levels) - ILM London

London Full-Time 35000 - 45000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
The Walt Disney Company

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Edit and retarget motion-capture performances for high-quality animations.
  • Company: Join the iconic ILM London team at Lacon House.
  • Benefits: Flexible hybrid work, competitive pay, and opportunities to grow your skills.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with mentorship opportunities and a focus on creativity.
  • Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects in the film and gaming industry.
  • Qualifications: Experience with MotionBuilder, Blender, or Maya; strong eye for detail.

The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.

ILM London is looking for Motion Editor (Performance Capture Animator – 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 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.

Hybrid Work Arrangement: This role is Hybrid; the employee will be encouraged to work 2 days on‐site per week at a company‐designated location, and occasionally from home.

Equal Opportunity Employer: ILM (UK) Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, colour, religion or belief, sex, nationality, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, disability or pregnancy or maternity.

Motion Editor (Performance Capture Animator - All Levels) - ILM London employer: The Walt Disney Company

At ILM London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that encourages creativity and collaboration among our Motion Editors. Located in the vibrant city of London, our studio offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in the film and video game industry, with ample room for professional growth and mentorship. With a hybrid work arrangement and a commitment to equal opportunity, we ensure that every team member can thrive while contributing to high-quality animations that captivate audiences worldwide.

The Walt Disney Company

Contact Details:

The Walt Disney Company Recruitment Team

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

Motion Editing
Performance Capture Animation
Retargeting Techniques
Animation Principles
MotionBuilder
Blender
Nuance