[Hiring] Senior 3D Animator @Big Happy

Role Description

We are looking for an experienced Senior 3D Animator to join our fast-paced creative team to lead animation quality across multiple advertising and digital media projects. In addition to creating production-ready animation, you will mentor junior animators, review animation quality, develop animation rigs, and help maintain consistency across the animation team. This role combines technical expertise, artistic leadership, and hands-on production within a fast-paced creative environment.

NOTE: Candidates must be open to work within USA time zones EST/EDT and PST/PDT hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Create high-quality character, product, and environment animations.
• Build, modify, and optimize production-ready rigs when required.
• Ensure rigs are suitable for animation and compatible with production workflows.
• Review junior animators' work daily and provide constructive feedback.
• Mentor junior animators and support their technical development.
• Troubleshoot animation and rigging challenges independently.
• Maintain consistency across all animation deliverables.
• Collaborate with Artists, Designers, Developers, and Leads.
• Improve animation workflows and contribute to studio best practices.
• Deliver production-ready animation while meeting project deadlines.

Qualifications

• 3-7 years of experience as a Senior 3D Animator with a strong portfolio.
• Advanced proficiency in Blender, Autodesk Maya, or similar software.
• Excellent understanding of animation principles.
• Strong rigging knowledge including constraints and deformation workflows.
• Experience creating animator-friendly rigs.
• Strong problem-solving abilities.
• Experience mentoring junior team members.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications (Bonus)

• Experience with Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Motion Capture cleanup and retargeting.
• Experience with Cascadeur or Houdini.
• Cinematic camera animation.
• Basic lighting and compositing knowledge.

Benefits

• Flexible Time-Off: At BIG Happy, we believe that great work comes from a well-balanced life. Our flexible time-off policy empowers employees to manage their schedules effectively, recharge when needed, and maintain a healthy work-life balance without compromising productivity.
• Comprehensive Health & Family Support: We prioritize the well-being of our team and their families. Our plans provide health support policies, including maternity benefits, ensuring that employees feel supported during important life stages.
• Performance-Driven Rewards & Growth: We recognize and reward impact. Through performance bonuses and incentive programs, employees are acknowledged for their contributions and achievements, fostering a motivating environment that supports both personal and professional growth.
• Relocation & Seamless Transition Support: Joining us from a different location? We’ve got you covered. Our relocation support and reimbursement policies are designed to make your transition smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on settling into your role and new environment.
• Inclusive Culture & Collaborative Environment: Our workplace thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and engagement. From cross-functional 1:1s to team building activities like movie outings, events, and office get-togethers, we ensure every team member feels connected, valued, and empowered to contribute meaningfully.