Layout Modeller, Bad fairies

About Locksmith Animation: 
Locksmith is an independent producer of high-quality animated features and series that entertain global audiences. From comedies, to musicals, to epic sci-fi, we tell contemporary stories that make people laugh, think, and feel. Based in London and Los Angeles, we bring together a team of accomplished industry leaders and world-class creative talent in a filmmaker-led studio. Our debut feature Ron’s Gone Wrong is currently streaming on Disney+. Our second film, That Christmas, based on series of children’s books by writer/director Richard Curtis premiered on Netflix 6 Dec 2024. We are currently in production of our third feature, Bad Fairies.
 
Key purpose of the job
Locksmith Animation is looking for a talented environment modeller to join our growing feature layout team.

In this role, you'll collaborate closely with our development artists and layout team to create and maintain environments and props optimized for rough layout and previs. You’ll be responsible for translating concept art, art models, and environment designs into rough models that can be used effectively by our previs and rough layout teams. These early-stage sets also serve as guides for our partner vendor studio during the asset build phase.

The ideal candidate is a skilled 3D artist with a strong understanding of the asset creation pipeline. You should be comfortable modelling both props and environments, optimised for use by both layout and previs. Your work should reflect a good sense of design, scale, and volume, along with a solid grasp of basic texturing and shading.

A key part of this role is the ability to interpret and simplify complex designs at a high level, producing clean, well-organized assets that are easy for other departments to work with.

 Responsibilities:

• Working with the head of layout & head of pipeline to create and manage the environment and sets in a clean and pipeline efficient manner.
• Working closely with the layout and art department to interpret concepts from the art department.
• Use and knowledge of techniques that are compatible with the rest of the digital film making process. Know how your work will affect other departments, using best practices to ensure clean files and smooth delivery to vendor.

 
Requirements:

• Previous experience as a modelling artist in animation or visual effects.
• Excellent Maya skills.
• Efficient modelling workflows with good understanding of topology and scene management
• Understanding of level of detail and ability to produce clean, efficient assets
• Strong sense of design and appeal
• Be able to successfully take and interpret creative direction
• Be adaptable
• Problem solving skills
• Strong organisational skills

 
Preferred skills:

• Shading and texture abilities
• Basic rigging knowledge
• Zbrush

 
All applications to send: CV and covering letter addressed to Hollie Bell, Layout Department Manager with availability to careers@locksmithanimation.com
 
Please note: This is a UK, hybrid position based in our London studio.