We don't just build worlds. We build the teams that build better worlds.From Montreal to Mumbai, London to Los Angeles, we unite diverse talent and experienceacross 10 global studios, delivering stronger, simpler, smarter VFX for episodic television and feature films.For well over a decade, FOLKS artists have come together to create ambitious workwith human-focused collaboration. As part of the Pitch Black network, our teams contribute their distinct creative strengths to a broader community of talent, technology, and expertise around the world.Join us and find your FOLKS.Job DescriptionThe Senior Animation Artist is responsible for delivering animated performances through character and creature animation, performance, and body mechanics. This role focuses on complex shot work, technical leadership, workflow optimisation, and mentoring team members.Working with a high level of autonomy, the Animation Senior Artist provides technical direction and leads by example. Collaborating closely with Layout, Rigging, CFX, Lighting, Production, and Animation teams across multiple locations, this role ensures that work meets creative, technical, and schedule requirements.Shot Work & PerformanceExecute advanced animation work, including hero shots and complex character performancesLead animation on key sequences, establishing performance and quality benchmarksCreate nuanced facial performances and precise lipsync for dialogue-heavy shotsDevelop character explorations and key poses that help define the animation styleDeliver assigned shots on schedule while maintaining a high standard of qualityEnsure animation deliverables meet technical requirements for downstream departmentsTroubleshoot pipeline and workflow issues in collaboration with other departmentsQuality, Continuity & Self-QCElevate performance quality and continuity across sequences while setting benchmarks on key shotsDiagnose complex animation notes and propose solutions that preserve creative intent and production schedulesCoach team members on strong self-QC practices, including arcs, contact, polish, and readability, to reduce iteration timeWorkflow & Continuous ImprovementCollaborate with local and global teams, Supervisors, and Heads of Department to design tools and optimise workflowsSupport global production teams through documentation and technical guidanceContribute to ongoing workflow improvements through technical problem-solving and innovationParticipate in and, when appropriate, lead dailies, presenting work clearly and responding constructively to feedbackCommunicate proactively with Supervisors, Heads of Department, and Production regarding risks, dependencies, and technical constraintsSupport skill development across local and global teams through mentorship and knowledge sharingWork effectively across time zones in a fast-paced production environmentMentor junior and mid-level animators on artistic techniques and production workflowsDemonstrate a proven track record of mentorship and technical leadershipQualificationsSignificant experience in a skilled VFX production environment with a focus on AnimationExpert-level proficiency in Maya and MotionBuilderPreferred QualificationsExperience leading sequences or small teamsExperience collaborating across multiple sites or studiosContributions to R&D or tool development initiativesCore Technical SkillsMaya and MotionBuilder for character and creature animationSoft SkillsClear and effective communication across disciplines and time zonesStrong problem-solving abilities under production pressureCollaborative mindset focused on technical excellence and consistencyHighly organised, proactive, and detail-orientedAdditional InformationNeed Accommodation?We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience.Privacy NoticeYour personal information will be collected, used, and stored for recruitment purposes in accordance with applicable privacy laws.Pitch Black is an Equal Opportunity EmployerAt Pitch Black, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, skills, experience, and business needs. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, colour, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran or military status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, provincial, or local law.

📌 Senior Animation Artist (Freelance) (Vancouver)
🏢 SmartRecruiters
📍 Vancouver