Pixal Zoo Studios Hiring- 3D Animator (Mid/Senior)

At Pixel Zoo , we don’t just create animation; we breathe life into digital worlds. Our studio, nestled in the vibrant North Lakes area of Brisbane, is a sanctuary for storytellers, technicians, and artists who share a singular, driving obsession: to create world-class animated content that lingers in the minds of our audiences long after the credits roll.

We are currently on the hunt for a talented 3D Animator to join our growing team. As a 3D Animator at Pixel Zoo, you won’t just be moving digital puppets—you will be the heartbeat of our narratives. You will be the one responsible for the nuanced flick of an eye, the weight of a footfall, and the subtle emotional shifts that turn a 3D model into a character that audiences truly care about. If you are a 3D Animator who believes that animation is the ultimate intersection of technical discipline and pure artistic expression, we want to hear from you.

Job Overview : 3D Animator

Details

Pixel Zoo

3D Animator

North Lakes, Brisbane (Northern Suburb), Australia

Animation & VFX

Autodesk Maya

Character animation, performance, & storytelling

The Role: What Does a 3D Animator Do at Pixel Zoo?

The role of a 3D Animator at our studio is dynamic, challenging, and immensely rewarding. We operate in a fast-paced production environment where quality is paramount, and the ability to adapt is a superpower. As a 3D Animator , you will play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between static geometry and living, breathing performance.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Bringing Characters to Life: You will utilize your deep expertise in the twelve principles of animation to craft realistic, expressive, and seamless character performances. Whether it is a whimsical creature for an episodic series or a highly complex character for a feature film, your work as a 3D Animator ensures that every movement feels grounded and intentional.

• Production Rigor: We understand that animation is a team sport. You will be expected to adhere strictly to project timelines and production schedules. Excellence at Pixel Zoo means delivering high-quality animations that not only look fantastic but also fit perfectly within the broader artistic vision of our directors.

• Collaborative Troubleshooting: You won’t be working in a vacuum. A great 3D Animator knows how to partner with our rigging and modeling departments. You will provide critical feedback on character rigs, helping to optimize assets for animation and troubleshooting technical hurdles before they become roadblocks.

• The Feedback Loop: We foster an environment of continuous growth. As a 3D Animator , you will collaborate closely with directors and fellow animators, engaging in creative discussions and, most importantly, demonstrating the maturity to receive and implement constructive feedback. We believe that your best work is born from a collaborative, iterative process.

• Studio Integrity: Like every member of our “Zoo” family, you will ensure that your workflow and file management follow our established studio policies and guidelines, ensuring that our downstream pipeline remains efficient for lighters and compositors.

Who You Are: The Ideal 3D Animator

We are looking for a 3D Animator who is more than just a skilled technician; we are looking for a storyteller. While we appreciate formal experience, we believe that talent speaks for itself. If your demo reel proves that you understand the mechanics of movement and the nuance of character performance, we want to talk to you.

• Technical Proficiency: A demonstrated ability to animate in Autodesk Maya is essential. You should be comfortable with keyframing, motion paths, graph editor management, and the complexities of human or creature locomotion.
• Artistic Foundation: You understand that a great 3D Animator knows the difference between “moving” a character and “acting” through a character. You have a passion for creating memorable, emotionally resonant visual experiences.
• Adaptability: Animation pipelines can be unpredictable. You are a 3D Animator who can handle the pressure of tight deadlines without sacrificing the quality of your performance. You remain calm under pressure and are always looking for the most efficient way to achieve a high-quality result.
• Soft Skills: Communication is everything. You are someone who can effectively describe a technical animation problem to a rigger or discuss a character’s motivation with a director. You are a team-oriented person who values the success of the project above individual ego.
• Continuous Learning: You are a 3D Animator who never stops learning. Whether it’s studying new animation techniques, watching classic films to understand timing, or exploring the latest developments in animation software, you are driven to grow your craft.

Life at Pixel Zoo: Why “Join the Zoo”?

We are often asked what makes Pixel Zoo different. The answer is our culture. We believe that if you provide talented people with a supportive, warm, and fun environment, the work will take care of itself.

• The Studio Environment: Our studio is based in North Lakes, a beautiful northern suburb of Brisbane. We have specifically designed our space to be welcoming and comfortable, with ready access to public transport to make your commute a breeze.
• The “Zoo” Culture: We are a team that genuinely likes each other. We organize frequent company and team events, ranging from social gatherings to creative workshops, all aimed at building strong, lasting connections. When you join as a 3D Animator , you aren’t just an employee number; you are a vital part of our creative pack.
• Professional Growth: We don’t just hire a 3D Animator —we invest in a creative partner. We encourage our artists to take on new challenges, learn from our directors, and participate in projects that span the entire spectrum of high-end animation production.
• The Future: We have a packed slate of exciting projects, and we need a 3D Animator who is ready to jump in and make a mark. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an emerging talent with an exceptional reel, there is a place for you to grow here.

How to Apply: Take the First Step

If you believe you are a good fit for us—and that we are the right studio for you—let us know! We are currently opening our doors to the right candidate, and we are eager to see what you can bring to the team.

To apply for the 3D Animator position, please include the following:

1. Your CV/Resume: Tell us about your background, your previous work experience, and your journey as an artist.

2. Your Portfolio or Showreel: As a 3D Animator , your work is your voice. Please send us a link to a high-quality reel that showcases your character performance, your understanding of weight and timing, and your proficiency in Maya. We love to see breakdowns or sketches if you have them!

3. Relevant Information: If there is anything else you think we should know about you—be it personal projects, a specific interest in our previous work, or a unique skill—please include it.

Have Questions? Choosing a new creative home is a major decision. If you have any questions about the 3D Animator role, the specific project needs, or the day-to-day life at Pixel Zoo, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We would love to chat!