Animation Artist Freelance

Rodeo FX • Dennis, MA

1d

About The Position

Rodeo FX is hiring freelance Animation Artists for multiple positions, with an immediate start and temporary contracts ending around December 18, 2026. The Animation Artist delivers high-end, hyper-realistic performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects, bringing life and credibility to realistic or stylized assets. Working closely with the Animation Lead and Supervisor, the artist contributes creatively and technically to each shot while following the project’s artistic vision, technical specifications, and deadlines.

The role involves producing polished, technically sound animation for downstream departments; interpreting creative direction and reference materials; developing expressive performances; and addressing scene or rigging issues with technical teams. Artists communicate estimates and risks, collaborate across departments, participate in dailies and reviews, and share knowledge with peers while continuing to develop their craft.

Requirements

• At least 6 years of experience in a VFX or animation studio environment.
• Strong proficiency in Maya.
• Solid understanding of body mechanics and facial animation.
• Ability to animate from reference and create compelling acting performances.
• High attention to detail, autonomy, and ability to manage deadlines effectively.
• Positive, collaborative mindset and strong communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with ShotGrid or other production tracking tools.
• Knowledge of rigging fundamentals or custom tool development.
• Experience with other animation tools.

Responsibilities

• Deliver polished animation that meets creative intent and production specifications.
• Apply animation principles such as timing, weight, arcs, and posing across different performance styles.
• Adapt animation approaches to realistic creatures, mechanical objects, and stylized characters.
• Interpret creative direction and reference materials to create nuanced, expressive performances.
• Propose ideas and motion choices that strengthen storytelling and shot impact.
• Incorporate feedback constructively to improve animation quality.
• Ensure animation is clean, functional, and ready for export to downstream departments.
• Anticipate and troubleshoot rigging or scene-related issues in collaboration with technical teams.
• Follow pipeline standards for naming conventions, file structures, and technical requirements.
• Provide realistic time estimates and promptly communicate issues or potential delays.
• Work with production to adjust priorities when needed and maintain communication with leads and adjacent departments.
• Proactively flag roadblocks and propose practical solutions to technical or creative issues.
• Participate in dailies and reviews, present work clearly, and respond to notes.
• Share tools, tips, and approaches with peers and take part in learning, studio initiatives, or internal mentorship.
• Keep current with software, animation trends, and methodologies.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed