3D Animation Lead

A dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on exciting projects such as Avatar: The Last Airbender feature film, Netflix's Ghostbusters animated series and Stranger Things animated series, as well as our production Tales From Outer Suburbia by Shaun Tan.

*Please note that this is an Expression of Interest for roles starting early 2026 - must be open to relocate to Sydney, no remote opportunities available.*

This role involves managing and guiding a team of animators on a show, acting as the main contact between production and supervisors, and ensuring smooth communication and workflow. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical knowledge of animation tools (especially Maya), and the ability to solve creative and technical challenges while meeting deadlines. The lead also coaches junior artists, collaborates with other departments, and supports production needs to maintain high-quality animation output.

About the role:

• Lead a team of animators on a show
• Be the key contact for production and supervisor/s. Maintain clear communication, deal with creative challenges, provide solutions and adapt to changes in production & scheduling
• Set and manage team assignments in collaboration with the animation supervisor
• Have a good understanding of the animation tasks the team will be working on and the potential technical and creative challenges involved
• Be prepared to deputise for the animation supervisor if necessary
• Be aware of workflow templates, methodology and documentation; provide to the team where necessary
• Work with technology teams to ensure that department tools are available for the team and properly set up for the show
• Inform supervisors and Head of Department (HOD) of any advances made on a project for integration into other shows
• May be required to work with HOD and supervisors on bids when requested
• Effectively manage team to avoid potential conflict or disagreement
• Maintain positive relationships with all other departments and address any issues promptly
• Attend dailies and present the work of your team; guide artists on how to present their work
• Coach, share knowledge and assume some responsibility for the progression of more junior members of the team
• Provide regular feedback to the team to ensure that work is always delivered on time to the highest possible standard
• Work with the technical animators to ensure that show wikis are kept up to date

About you:

• Previous experience mentoring or leading a team
• Thorough knowledge of Maya
• An understanding of physical motion, weight, balance, texture and form
• An understanding of rigs and typical rigging set-ups, animation pipelines and transferring data between tools
• The proven ability to work under pressure
• Being open to direction and able to embrace change
• Attention to detail
• Reliable, with good time keeping and the ability to meet deadlines
• Excellent organisation, communication and interpersonal skills
• A demonstrable commitment to creative collaboration within a team and with other departments
• Adaptability and the willingness to learn new processes and technical skills
• Working knowledge of modelling, rigging and Mel/Python scripting
• Knowledge of human and animal anatomy as well as life drawing skills

What do we do?

A renowned independent producer of family-focused animation entertainment. For over 50 years, our 2D and 3D production facility has created award-winning feature films and TV series.

Why work with us?

• We work on some pretty cool projects - check out our website: https://www.flyingbark.com.au/
• We have an industry leading studio space in Alexandria, complete with a cinema, quiet room, Zen Garden, games room, and state of the art animation facilities.
• Breakfast is served daily - on us!
• We have cake days, movie nights, wrap parties & a culture club dedicated to coordinating our busy social calendar!
• The Barkers have big hearts too, with our Paws for a Cause fundraising arm raising much needed funds for charities such as Beyond Blue, RSPCA and the Cancer Council.
• We love dogs and you will often see some of our regular fluffy companions in the studio.
• We have a hybrid approach to work with flexible work from home days on offer.
• Career development is important to us so we offer training and support opportunities whenever possible.
• Our employees say our culture is the best they've ever experienced - everyone is welcome and celebrated!
• You'll have access to mental health resources and free counselling via our Employee Assistance Provider, Support Act.

Proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.