Animator at Steamroller Animation
Company: Steamroller Animation
Location: Mount Dora, Florida, USA
Job Type: Contract (On-Site, 1099)
Salary: Not Disclosed
About Steamroller Animation
Steamroller Animation is a creative studio known for its collaborative culture, passion for animation, and dedication to artistic growth. The studio offers artists the opportunity to work on exciting animation projects while developing their technical and creative skills in a supportive team environment.
Job Overview
Steamroller Animation is seeking a skilled Animator for a high-priority Research & Development service project. This contract role focuses on solving creative animation challenges and advancing character movement techniques within a dedicated R&D environment.
This is a fully on-site position based in Mount Dora, Florida, requiring availability Monday through Friday at the studio. Due to strict NDA requirements, all work must remain in-house.
- Contract duration estimated at 5 to 7 months
- Project start expected in early April
- Focus on character keyframe animation and facial performance
- Opportunity to collaborate closely with animation directors and production teams
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the animation team on intermediate to complex animation tasks across multiple styles
- Create high-quality keyframe, motion capture, and cinematic animations
- Work closely with animation leads and directors to achieve artistic and technical goals
- Communicate performance ideas, technical concerns, and production updates effectively
- Participate in dailies, reviews, and feedback sessions to improve animation quality
- Maintain clear and professional communication regarding creative direction and revisions
- Use production tools efficiently to meet project requirements and deadlines
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 2 years of professional studio production experience
- Strong proficiency in Autodesk Maya
- Excellent understanding of character keyframe animation principles
- Demonstrated expertise in facial animation with strong appeal and graphic shapes
- Ability to use research and reference materials effectively
- Solid understanding of human and animal anatomy
- Strong problem-solving and collaborative skills
- Ability to communicate effectively in English
Preferred Skills
- Experience with 2D animation and traditional animation principles
- Experience communicating directly with clients
- Knowledge of motion capture cleanup and mocap workflows
- Ability to adapt to varied animation styles and creative challenges