Experienced 2D Environment Designer (Animation)

TL;DR

Experienced 2D Environment Designer (Animation): Designing environments for a new 2.5D production, from concept to final artwork, under the supervision of the Art Director. Focus on visual idea development, composition, and conveying story through art, while conducting research and spatial planning within project briefs.

Location: Flexible, hybrid, and remote working options are available, but candidates must be based in the UK and have the right to work in the UK.

Company

Blue Zoo is a leading, BAFTA, Annie, and Emmy award-winning animation studio in the UK, known for creating bold, fun, and characterful animation, and is the first major animation studio in the world to receive B Corp certification.

What you will do

• Contribute to the creative briefing process and bring new ideas in line with specified briefs.
• Create loose design ideas and develop compositional elements during the exploration stage, producing rough sketches.
• Detail concept work through review stages and multiple passes, ensuring final approved artwork.
• Research and provide exploratory sketches for interior and exterior sets, based on approved briefs.
• Produce detailed drawings at correct scale with prop callouts, detailing any prop specifications.
• Collaborate with other designers and the Art Director to elevate aesthetic and visual development.

Requirements

• Good drawing skills, including perspective and understanding of volumes.
• High level of skill in digital mediums, specifically Photoshop.
• Strong understanding of the scope required for a 2D TV show.
• Excellent communication skills and aesthetic judgment with attention to detail.
• Ability to produce a final layout for sets and stage actions within them.
• Able to work autonomously, manage time well, prioritize tasks, and take creative direction and feedback.

Nice to have

• Understanding of 3D design and modeling workflow.
• Good skills in graphic design and stylized textures.
• Knowledge of the animation pipeline and process beyond the Art Department.
• Experience using Ftrack.

Culture & Benefits

• Winner of Broadcast Best Places to Work in TV multiple times.
• Inclusive self-funded shorts programme.
• Many fun in-person and remote social events throughout the year.
• Bi-monthly employee feedback and engagement programme.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including discounts and offers.
• Online wellbeing programme and profit share for long-term employees.