Animator at Crafty Apes
Company: Crafty Apes
Location: Los Angeles (El Segundo), California, United States
Job Type: Contract (6 Months, Remote within Los Angeles)
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
About the Company
Crafty Apes is a full-service global visual effects company with studios across Canada, the UK, and the United States. Known for delivering high-quality VFX work on blockbuster films, independent projects, and premium television, the company brings together award-winning artists and technical experts. The Los Angeles studio plays a key role in its global operations and supports flexible remote working.
Job Overview
Crafty Apes is seeking Mid to Senior Animators to join its Los Angeles team. This role focuses on creating expressive, high-quality animation for characters and creatures across film and television projects. Candidates should have strong animation fundamentals, technical expertise, and the ability to deliver high-quality work within production timelines.
Key Responsibilities
- Create high-quality keyframe animation that meets artistic and technical standards.
- Collaborate with Animation Directors, Designers, and Technical Artists.
- Ensure animations integrate seamlessly into final production pipelines.
- Contribute to the development of animation tools, workflows, and best practices.
- Mentor junior animators and provide constructive feedback.
- Participate in motion capture direction, cleanup, and implementation.
- Iterate quickly based on feedback from dailies, reviews, and playtesting.
Qualifications
Mid-Level Requirements:
- 3+ years of professional animation experience in film or episodic projects.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating animation principles such as timing, weight, and appeal.
- Proficiency in industry-standard 3D animation software.
- Experience with production tools like ShotGrid.
Senior-Level Requirements:
- 5+ years of experience with ownership of major animation sequences or features.
- Advanced keyframe animation skills and deep understanding of character performance.
- Ability to manage tasks independently and meet tight deadlines.
- Experience with scripting (Python, MEL), rigging, or technical animation is a plus.
- Leadership or mentorship experience within animation teams.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Animation, Visual Effects, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience and skill level.
- 100% remote work flexibility within Los Angeles.
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment.
- Opportunity to work on high-profile film and television projects.
How to Apply
Please send your application to our HR department:
Required: Attach your resume, cover letter, and a link to your animation reel. Ensure your work samples are recent and representative of your skills.