Layout TD

Layout TD

Layout & Previs - Sydney, New South Wales (Hybrid)

Flying Bark Productions is 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.

Prioritising candidates based in Sydney, no remote opportunities available.

The Layout TD supports the Layout department by developing and maintaining tools, troubleshooting workflow issues, and ensuring the seamless technical integration of layout work into the wider production pipeline. Working closely with the Layout Supervisor, Pipeline team and other departments, the Layout TD contributes to efficient camera workflows, clean scene assembly, and robust data handovers between departments.

About the role:

• Works within Autodesk Maya to build, maintain and support tools that assist with camera animation, environment layout, referencing, and scene organisation.
• Supports the Layout team by resolving technical issues, providing solutions for pipeline bottlenecks, and assisting in optimising workflow efficiency.
• Collaborates with the Layout Supervisor to identify technical requirements and deliver practical, scalable toolsets tailored to the show’s needs. Liaises with other departments, such as Animation, Lighting and Compositing, to ensure that layout scenes are technically sound and compatible with downstream processes.
• Maintains clear documentation of tools, scripts, and best practices to ensure consistent technical standards across the department.
• Assists in developing and supporting publishing systems, layout templates, and automation tools to standardise output across sequences and shots.
• May contribute to the onboarding and technical upskilling of junior artists and assist with cross-department troubleshooting as required.

About you:

• Demonstrated experience in a Layout TD or Technical Artist role within animation, visual effects or a similar CG production environment.
• Proficient in Autodesk Maya with strong scripting skills in Python and MEL. Sound understanding of layout workflows, including camera work, scene assembly, referencing, and environment layout.
• A Strong understanding of cinematic language, lensing and composition. Experience using production tracking software such as ShotGrid or equivalent.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to work collaboratively to resolve complex pipeline issues.
• Strong communication skills, both technical and interpersonal, with an ability to work effectively across departments.
• Highly organised with attention to detail and a proactive approach to improving processes.
• Adaptable to changing production needs and committed to supporting efficient, creative storytelling through layout.

What do we do?

Flying Bark Productions is 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.
• Enjoy holistic wellbeing support through discounted health insurance with Bupa, financial wellbeing initiatives from our superannuation partner Media Super, and access to staff qualified in Mental Health First Aid.