Learn how to create an effective animator resume with 6 real-world examples and a step-by-step writing guide. Discover tips for highlighting your animation skills, experience, and projects to impress employers and increase your chances of getting hired. Use the provided resume templates and samples to build a professional resume that will help you launch your animation career.
A great resume is essential for animators who want to land their dream job. In a field full of talented artists, your resume needs to quickly capture a hiring manager's attention and showcase your unique skills and experience. However, knowing exactly how to put together an impressive animator resume isn't always easy.
That's where this guide comes in. We'll break down the key components every animator's resume should include and share tips for making each section as effective as possible. You'll learn how to craft compelling descriptions of your work experience, highlight your most relevant skills, and select the best projects for your portfolio.
Along with expert advice, we'll provide six real-world examples of animator resumes that get results. By seeing how other successful animators present their credentials, you can get inspired and gather ideas for enhancing your own resume.
Whether you're a fresh graduate looking for your first animation gig or a seasoned pro aiming to take your career to the next level, this article will give you the insights and tools needed to build a standout resume and get noticed by top studios and employers. Let's dive in!
Common Responsibilities Listed on Animator Resumes
Creating and designing characters, environments, and objects using 2D or 3D animation software
Developing storyboards, animatics, and pre-visualization to plan and communicate animation sequences
Collaborating with directors, producers, and other team members to ensure the animation aligns with the project's vision and goals
Animating characters, objects, and environments using keyframe animation, motion capture, or other techniques
Rigging and skinning characters and objects to prepare them for animation
Applying principles of animation, such as timing, spacing, anticipation, and follow-through, to create realistic and engaging animations
Reviewing and refining animations based on feedback from supervisors, clients, or team members
Staying up-to-date with the latest animation techniques, software, and industry trends to continuously improve skills and knowledge
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How to write a Resume Summary
When it comes to writing a successful summary or objective section in your resume, the key is clarity. As an animator, this segment should embody the essence of who you are as a professional and what you bring to the table. It's a statement of your professional intentions, outlining your key skills, experiences, and what you aim to achieve career-wise.
First and foremost, begin by identifying the key skills, experiences, abilities, and qualifications that make you unique as an animator. Next, evaluate how these attributes align with the job description and how they can contribute to the organization's needs.
Your resume's summary isn't the place to fill with technical jargon or animation lingo. Instead, use a direct and straightforward language. Being brief and concise is key. Think of it as an elevator pitch. Within a few seconds, you should be able to convey what you're capable of and what you're looking for in your next role.
Being truthful and realistic about your skills and experiences is crucial. Exaggerating or altering facts can impact your credibility and thereby your rating on the Trustworthiness scale.
Avoid overly used phrases or cliches that may cause your summary to blend in with others. Strive for a distinct narrative that underscores your unique benefits, and encapsulates what it’s like to collaborate with you on animation projects.
Remember, your summary is the cornerstone of your resume. It sets the tone for the reader and piques their interest, inspiring them to read the rest of your resume. So, always keep in mind, the key is to be clear, concise, truthful, and striking. Think of your summary as your direct communication channel with potential employers. Express beyond the technicalities, ensure they get a sense of your passion and dedication towards animation.
Strong Summaries
Experienced Animator with a demonstrated history of working in the animation industry. Skilled in 3D Animation, 2D Animation, Character Animation, and Drawing. Strong arts and design professional with a Bachelor's Degree focused in Animation from California State University-Fullerton.
Award-winning Animator adept at creating high-quality content for a range of media outlets. Over 10 years of experience in gaming, television, and digital platforms. Exceptional proficiency in 3D Modeling, Rigging, Rendering, and Animation with a knack for storytelling and character development.
Dedicated Animator with expertise in 2D, 3D, and stop-motion animation techniques. Known for enhancing immersive experiences in video games and VR. Adept in using software like Adobe Creative Cloud and Autodesk Maya. Constantly exploring innovative techniques to produce compelling visual effects.
Animated Film Director turned Animator with more than 15 years of experience in creating memorable characters and scenarios. Proven ability to manage large teams and mentor junior animators. Proficient in using a variety of softwares and known for meeting tight deadlines.
Why these are strong?
These are good examples because they provide a quick snapshot of the animator's career highlighting their expertise, software knowledge, and work experience. They mention the specific type of animation they specialize in, providing potential employers an idea of their skillset. They also mention their educational background and achievements, which adds value to their profile. Talking about their ability to manage teams or their experience in different platforms can differentiate them from other animators, making these strong summaries.
Weak Summaries
Worked as an animator. Job involved drawing and making movements.
Animator guy who worked on some projects
Did animation work for a few years. Also did some other stuff
Animation, lots of animation that's what I did. Made things move around and stuff
Animator - I basically do all the things that an animator does
Why these are weak?
The above examples are bad examples of a summary section for an animator because they lack specificity and detail. A summary section of a resume should provide a concise overview of the individual's skills, experiences, and accomplishments. However, these examples fail to do so. They are overly simplistic and vague, offering no real insight into the animator's level of expertise, their particular skills, or the specific projects they have worked on. Additionally, they do not highlight any achievements or impactful contributions, which are crucial for setting oneself apart from other candidates. Lack of professionalism in the tone and language used also makes the summary section seem less serious and unappealing to recruiters. Therefore, these examples demonstrate poor practice in writing a resume summary.
Showcase your Work Experience
The work experience section of an animation resume is crucial in showcasing your abilities and suitability for a potential position. Filled with tailored descriptions of your previous roles, it becomes the highlight reel of your professional journey so far. Working on this part of the resume, however, can sometimes feel quite daunting. So, let's uncover the steps towards crafting a strong work experience segment that vividly portrays your animation expertise.
Essentials of A Work Experience Section
Experience, as an animator, is more than the time spent in front of a computer or sketchpad. It fully involves the projects you've executed, the scopes you've handled, and the transformation you've brought in your past roles. So, in including your job titles, employers, and dates, dive deep into the specific tasks you handled. Be actively concise, avoid lengthy narratives, and maintain a bulleted design listing your duties and achievements.
Showcasing Technical Skills
Animation is a largely technical profession, and your resume's work experience section is the perfect platform to reveal your technical strengths profoundly. Mention the software you have proficiency in, highlight familiar animation techniques, and draw attention to your understanding of color theory, modeling, textures, and so on. This gives a solid representation of your practical skills, making it easier for the employers to assess your suitability for the role.
Expert Tip
Quantify your achievements and impact in each role using specific metrics, percentages, and numbers to demonstrate the value you brought to your previous employers. This helps hiring managers quickly understand the scope and significance of your contributions.
Focusing on Storytelling
Animation is all about narrating stories visually. Hence, your work experience should be a story that provides a clear picture of your evolution as an animator. Starting from your earliest professional engagement to the latest, make sure to highlight the narrative arc of your career. Reflect on how each work experience has been a stepping stone in your career path, honing your skills and broadening your vision as an animator.
Prioritizing Relevance
While relevance may seem obvious, many illustrators overlook this aspect while compiling their work history. Not all your past experiences need to find a place on your resume, especially if they don't pertain directly to the job you're applying for. Select past roles that align closely with the position you want, focusing more on the experiences that evoke your suitability for the particular job.
Quantifiable Achievements
Adding numbers to your achievements can turn a generic statement into a trustable claim. Therefore, don't shy away from incorporating statistics that depict your impact in your past roles. You can talk about the number of projects completed, customer satisfaction scores, workflow efficiencies implemented, or even awards won. These quantifiable results serve as evidence of your capability and proficiency.
Implementing these practices in your resume can depict your story compellingly and effectively, resonating with the employers the capabilities that you bring to their organization. All you need to remember is to be truthful, clear, articulate, and focused. Happy resume writing!
Strong Experiences
Delivered key character animations for award-winning short film, which increased viewership by 20%.
Led a team of 5 animators in a high-paced production environment for a full-length animated feature film.
Designed character concepts, storyboards and background art for a local gaming company.
Implemented new animation techniques using software such as Maya and 3ds Max, improving work efficiency by 30%.
Awarded 'Animator of the Year' by the organization in appreciation of the high-quality work delivered.
Why these are strong?
These are good examples as they can help decision-makers understand what the person's real-life experiences and achievements are. They provide specific details rather than general duties, showcasing the individual’s skills and competence. They emphasize accomplishments and measure achievements in a quantifiable way. Good bullet points also illustrate use of key tools in the industry like Maya or 3ds Max, thereby showcasing technical proficiency. Adding recognition or award is a good practice as it demonstrates peer or organization's recognition of candidate's skills.
Weak Experiences
Sketched some stuff.
Drew a lot.
Had a hand in making some animations.
Worked with some cool software.
Did lots of computer things.
Why these are weak?
The given examples are indeed bad practices for bullet points for an Animator's work experience resume section. They are too vague and casual, lacking specific details about the job roles, responsibilities, or accomplishments. Recruiters favor well-structured points depicting particular tasks, the methods/tools used, quantifying the impact, and highlighting achievements. Simply stating 'Sketched some stuff' or 'Did lots of computer things' don't offer meaningful insights into the experiences and skills, it feels more like a casual conversation than a professional resume. Hence, they are bad examples.
Skills, Keywords & ATS Tips
Creating an effective Animator resume isn't all about showcasing your artistic talent. Your hard and soft skills play a crucial role too. Understanding the significance of these skills, and how they link with ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) and keywords, can help your resume shine brighter than others.
###The Backbone: Hard Skills
Hard skills are the technical skills that you learn from education or training. For an Animator, these might include drawing, 3D modeling, and computer proficiency. They act as a backbone, substantiating your practical knowledge in the field. As you list these skills in your resume, remember to match them with the job description. This increases the relevancy of your resume, making it more attractive to potential employers.
###The People Person: Soft Skills
While hard skills showcase your technical competency, soft skills highlight your interpersonal attributes. Communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are typical examples. As an Animator, showcasing such skills can demonstrate your ability to collaborate with others and navigate the ups and downs of creative projects. This can portray you as an all-rounder, adept at both the technical and interpersonal aspects of the job.
###Unlocking the Door: ATS and Keywords
ATSs are systems used by many companies to streamline their hiring process. They scan and sort resumes, looking for specific keywords that match the job description. It's crucial then, to sprinkle relevant keywords throughout your resume. This doesn't just include hard skills, but also specific soft skills mentioned in the job posting. Doing so can increase your chances of getting past the ATS and in front of human eyes.
###The Perfect Partnership: Matching Skills
Lastly, let's touch on the importance of matching skills. Imagine a puzzle; your resume is one piece, the job description another. The better they fit together, the more likely your resume is to catch attention. Take the time to tailor your skills section to each job you apply for. Highlight hard and soft skills that mirror what the employer wants. This will help show you're not only a talented Animator, but also a keen applicant who has taken the time to understand what the job requires.
Top Hard & Soft Skills for Full Stack Developers
Hard Skills
2D Animation
3D Animation
Character Design
Storyboarding
Graphic Design
Illustration
Video Editing
Digital Art
Creative Direction
Visual Effects
Adobe Creative Suite
Motion Graphics
Cinematography
Stop Motion
Texturing
After Effects
Character Animation
Animation Software Mastery
3D Modeling
Lighting
Soft Skills
Creativity
Teamwork
Attention to Detail
Patience
Flexibility
Visual Communication
Time Management
Adaptability
Problem Solving
Collaboration
Artistic Abstract Thinking
Communication
Observation
Adaptability
Perseverance
Visualization
Passion for Art
Open-mindedness
Critical Thinking
Dedication
Top Action Verbs
Use action verbs to highlight achievements and responsibilities on your resume.
Illustrated
Animated
Designed
Created
Developed
Drafted
Realized
Conceived
Directed
Sculpted
Visualized
Storyboarded
Rendered
Integrated
Invoked
Collaborated
Innovated
Experimented
Modeled
Imagined
Produced
Finished
Devised
Drew
Transformed
Mastered
Conveyed
Refined
Modernized
Interpreted
Optimized
Prioritized
Enhanced
Education & Certifications
Adding your education or certificates to your resume as an animator can be quite straightforward. Begin by creating a dedicated section titled "Education" or "Certifications". Then, list your qualifications in a reverse chronological order. Include the name of the institution, the degree or certification obtained, and the dates of completion. Make sure to highlight any specialized courses or trainings relevant to animation. Lastly, always ensure your entries are neat, concise and free from errors to give a professional impression.
Some of the most important certifications for Animators
Validates skills in using Blender, a free and open-source 3D creation suite, for modeling, animation, and rendering.
Resume FAQs for Animators
question
What is the best format for an animator resume?
Answer
The best format for an animator resume is a reverse-chronological format, which highlights your most recent experience and accomplishments first. This format is preferred by most employers and is easy to read and understand.
question
How long should an animator resume be?
Answer
An animator resume should typically be one to two pages long, depending on your level of experience. If you have less than 10 years of experience, aim for a one-page resume. If you have more than 10 years of experience, a two-page resume is acceptable.
question
What should I include in my animator resume's skills section?
Answer
In your animator resume's skills section, include a mix of technical skills (such as proficiency in animation software like Maya, 3ds Max, or Blender) and soft skills (such as creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills). Tailor your skills section to the specific job description and requirements.
question
How can I make my animator resume stand out?
Answer
To make your animator resume stand out, focus on highlighting your unique accomplishments and projects. Use specific examples and quantify your achievements whenever possible. Additionally, customize your resume for each job application, using keywords from the job description to demonstrate your relevance and fit for the role.
Animator Resume Example
Animators bring characters and stories to life through digital and hand-drawn animation for films, TV shows, video games, and other media. Key duties include conceptualizing ideas, drawing storyboards, designing characters and scenes, animating using software like Maya, Adobe After Effects, and Toon Boom. Required skills: strong artistic abilities, creativity, attention to detail, proficiency in animation/editing software.
When writing an animator resume, include an online portfolio showcasing your best animation reels and samples. Highlight relevant internships, freelance projects, and coursework demonstrating your animation skills. Mention the specific software you've mastered and any specialties like 3D modeling, motion capture, or VFX. Animators with a strong narrative visual style and technical expertise are in high demand.
Judy Ray
judy.ray@example.com
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(390) 398-4615
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linkedin.com/in/judy.ray
Animator
Creative and detail-oriented animator with a passion for bringing characters and stories to life. Skilled in traditional and digital animation techniques, with a strong foundation in storytelling and visual communication. Dedicated to collaborating with teams to deliver high-quality, engaging animated content for a variety of mediums.
Work Experience
Lead Animator
06/2020 - Present
Dreamworks Animation
Managed a team of 15 animators to deliver high-quality character animations for feature films and short projects
Collaborated with directors and producers to develop and refine character designs, personalities, and movements
Implemented new animation techniques and tools to improve workflow efficiency and quality, resulting in a 20% reduction in production time
Mentored junior animators, providing guidance and feedback to help them develop their skills and advance their careers
Contributed to the successful release of critically acclaimed animated films, including 'The Hidden Realm' and 'Moonrise Adventures'
Senior Animator
02/2017 - 05/2020
Industrial Light & Magic
Created complex character animations for high-profile films and TV shows, including 'Galactic Frontier' and 'Heroes United'
Developed and implemented advanced rigging systems to enhance character performance and flexibility
Collaborated with VFX supervisors and technical directors to integrate animated characters seamlessly into live-action footage
Provided guidance and mentorship to junior animators, fostering a positive and collaborative team environment
Participated in animation festivals and conferences, presenting work and sharing knowledge with industry professionals
3D Animator
09/2014 - 01/2017
Pixar Animation Studios
Animated characters and creatures for feature films and short projects using Maya and proprietary Pixar software
Collaborated with modelers, riggers, and texture artists to ensure seamless integration of animated elements
Participated in daily reviews and feedback sessions to refine animations and ensure they met the director's vision
Contributed to the development of new animation tools and techniques to enhance efficiency and quality
Assisted in the successful release of the Academy Award-winning animated film 'Heart of the Forest'
Skills
Traditional animation
3D animation
Character design
Storyboarding
Rigging
Motion capture
Lip sync animation
Facial animation
Action animation
Creature animation
Maya
Blender
Toon Boom Harmony
Adobe Creative Suite
Unreal Engine
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
09/2010 - 05/2014
Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA
2D Animator Resume Example
A 2D Animator is responsible for bringing illustrations and characters to life through digital 2D animations for films, video games, TV shows, and other multimedia projects. Key responsibilities involve designing storyboards, manipulating character/object movements frame-by-frame, and ensuring seamless animations. Essential skills include creativity, attention to detail, and proficiency in animation software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom, or Flash.
When crafting a resume for a 2D Animator role, highlight your animation skills and educational background relevant to the field. Showcase your best work by including a link to an online portfolio demonstrating your animation capabilities. Emphasize any prior experience in 2D animation, whether through internships, freelance projects, or previous roles. Use keywords related to 2D animation techniques and software throughout your resume.
Veronica Robertson
veronica.robertson@example.com
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(584) 614-3380
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linkedin.com/in/veronica.robertson
2D Animator
Highly creative and talented 2D Animator with a passion for crafting captivating visuals that bring characters and stories to life. Skilled in utilizing industry-standard software to create dynamic animations for diverse projects, from feature films to video games. Adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, engaging content within tight deadlines.
Work Experience
Lead 2D Animator
06/2021 - Present
Dreamworks Animation
Spearheaded the animation team for a critically acclaimed animated feature film, overseeing the creation of complex character animations and ensuring consistency across scenes.
Collaborated closely with the director and art department to develop and refine character designs, resulting in memorable and iconic characters that resonated with audiences.
Mentored and trained junior animators, fostering a supportive and creative work environment that encouraged skill development and innovation.
Implemented advanced rigging techniques to streamline the animation process, reducing production time by 20% without compromising quality.
Contributed to the development of new animation tools and workflows, enhancing the studio's capabilities and efficiency.
Senior 2D Animator
02/2018 - 05/2021
Walt Disney Animation Studios
Animated key characters for multiple high-profile animated series, consistently delivering expressive and engaging performances that elevated the storytelling.
Collaborated with the storyboard team to develop and refine character poses and expressions, ensuring seamless integration with the narrative.
Created detailed character turnarounds and expression sheets, providing a comprehensive reference for the animation team and maintaining visual consistency throughout production.
Participated in regular animation dailies, offering constructive feedback and guidance to peers to maintain high standards of quality and creativity.
Contributed to the successful launch of several animated series, which garnered critical acclaim and strong viewership.
2D Animator
09/2015 - 01/2018
Bardel Entertainment
Animated characters for a diverse range of projects, including TV series, commercials, and video games, demonstrating versatility and adaptability.
Collaborated with the animation supervisor to ensure that character animations aligned with the established style and vision of each project.
Worked closely with the rigging department to identify and resolve technical issues, optimizing character rigs for efficient animation.
Contributed to the development of an in-house animation library, creating reusable assets that streamlined production and maintained consistency across projects.
Participated in animation workshops and training sessions, continuously improving skills and staying up-to-date with industry trends and techniques.
Skills
2D Animation
Character Animation
Storyboarding
Character Design
Toon Boom Harmony
Adobe Animate
Adobe After Effects
Adobe Photoshop
TVPaint
Rigging
Lip Sync Animation
Timing and Spacing
Gesture Drawing
Collaborative Teamwork
Creative Problem-Solving
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
09/2011 - 05/2015
Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA
Junior Animator Resume Example
A Junior Animator breathes life into characters and worlds through skillful animation. This entry-level role involves using specialized software to create stunning 2D or 3D animations for video games, films, and other multimedia projects. Artistic abilities like drawing, modeling, and a keen sense of timing are essential, complemented by technical expertise in animation tools and software. When crafting a resume, be sure to spotlight an impressive animation portfolio showcasing your best work. Highlight relevant coursework, internships, and both creative and technical competencies that make you an asset for dynamic animation roles.
Daisy Griffin
daisy.griffin@example.com
•
(939) 469-1144
•
linkedin.com/in/daisy.griffin
Junior Animator
Creative and ambitious Junior Animator with a passion for storytelling through vivid visuals. Skilled in utilizing industry-standard software to bring characters and scenes to life. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and adapt quickly to new challenges. Committed to continuous learning and growth in the field of animation.
Work Experience
Junior Animator
06/2022 - Present
Dreamworks Animation
Collaborated with a team of animators to create high-quality character animations for feature films and short projects
Utilized advanced rigging techniques to enhance character performance and believability
Participated in daily reviews and implemented feedback from lead animators and directors to improve animation quality
Assisted in the development of new animation tools and workflows to optimize production efficiency
Contributed to the successful completion of two animated feature films within tight deadlines
Animation Intern
06/2021 - 12/2021
Walt Disney Animation Studios
Worked closely with experienced animators to learn advanced animation techniques and industry best practices
Assisted in the creation of character animations for a variety of projects, including feature films and short films
Participated in animation dailies and received constructive feedback to improve animation skills
Collaborated with other interns on a short animated project, which was showcased at the end of the internship
Gained valuable insights into the animation pipeline and production process at a major studio
Freelance Animator
01/2020 - 05/2022
Self-employed
Created custom character animations for a variety of clients, including indie game developers and small businesses
Developed a strong understanding of the principles of animation and how to apply them effectively in different contexts
Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction
Continuously improved animation skills through self-study and experimentation with new techniques and software
Built a strong portfolio of work demonstrating versatility and creativity in character animation
Skills
2D Animation
3D Animation
Character Animation
Rigging
Storyboarding
Visual Development
Autodesk Maya
Adobe Animate
Toon Boom Harmony
After Effects
Photoshop
Illustrator
Unreal Engine
Unity
Teamwork
Communication
Time Management
Adaptability
Creativity
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
09/2016 - 05/2020
California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA
3D Animator Resume Example
A 3D Animator breathes life into digital characters and worlds through computer-generated animation. This creative yet highly technical role demands a unique blend of artistic vision and technical mastery. 3D Animators model objects, rigs characters for movement, and time animations for realism and emotional impact across movies, games, and other visual media.
When crafting your resume, highlight your animation portfolio, proficiency in industry-standard 3D software, and meticulous attention to detail in animating nuanced movements and expressions. Relevant degrees like computer animation or graphic design, coupled with a standout reel showcasing your 3D artistry, are essential for landing this dynamic role.
Florence Harris
florence.harris@example.com
•
(705) 532-9196
•
linkedin.com/in/florence.harris
3D Animator
Dynamic and creative 3D Animator with a passion for bringing characters and worlds to life. Skilled in utilizing industry-standard software to create captivating animations for films, video games, and interactive experiences. Collaborative team player with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work on tight deadlines.
Work Experience
Lead 3D Animator
06/2021 - Present
Dreamworks Animation
Spearheaded the animation team for a major feature film, overseeing the creation of complex character animations and ensuring consistency across scenes.
Developed and implemented innovative animation techniques, resulting in a 20% reduction in production time without compromising quality.
Collaborated closely with the director and other department heads to ensure the animation style aligned with the overall vision of the project.
Mentored and trained junior animators, fostering a supportive and creative work environment that encouraged skill development and teamwork.
Contributed to the successful completion of the film, which grossed over $500 million at the box office and received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals.
Senior 3D Animator
02/2018 - 05/2021
Ubisoft
Worked on multiple AAA video game titles, creating complex character animations for gameplay and cinematic sequences.
Collaborated with game designers and programmers to ensure animations were optimized for real-time rendering and responsive to player input.
Developed and maintained animation libraries, ensuring consistent quality and style across multiple projects.
Participated in the development of new animation tools and pipelines, streamlining the animation process and improving overall efficiency.
Received recognition for outstanding contributions to the animation team, including a studio-wide award for excellence in character animation.
3D Animator
08/2015 - 01/2018
Industrial Light & Magic
Worked on a variety of high-profile film projects, creating stunning visual effects and character animations.
Collaborated with senior animators and VFX supervisors to ensure animations met the highest standards of quality and realism.
Developed a keen understanding of human and animal anatomy, using this knowledge to create convincing and lifelike animations.
Participated in the development of new animation tools and techniques, contributing to the studio's reputation for innovation and technical excellence.
Received positive feedback from clients and supervisors for consistently delivering high-quality work on tight deadlines.
Skills
Autodesk Maya
Blender
Unity
Unreal Engine
Motion Capture
Rigging
Character Animation
Creature Animation
Lip Sync Animation
Facial Animation
3D Modeling
Texturing
Lighting
Rendering
Compositing
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
09/2011 - 05/2015
Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA
Character Animator Resume Example
A character animator breathes life into characters through intricate movements and expressive animations. Key responsibilities involve meticulously crafting character gestures, facial expressions, and actions that convey emotions and personality. To land this creative role, your resume should spotlight an outstanding animation portfolio demonstrating a mastery of character movement and acting. Highlight proficiency with industry-standard 2D/3D software like Maya, along with a strong background in drawing, illustration, and traditional animation principles. Include a compelling demo reel that showcases your ability to infuse characters with unique mannerisms and bring their personalities to life through dynamic animation.
Daisy Patterson
daisy.patterson@example.com
•
(989) 518-0203
•
linkedin.com/in/daisy.patterson
Character Animator
Highly creative and skilled Character Animator with a passion for bringing characters to life through engaging and emotive animations. Proficient in using industry-standard software to create compelling animations for various mediums, including film, television, and video games. Collaborates effectively with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, visually stunning projects on time and within budget.
Work Experience
Senior Character Animator
01/2020 - Present
Walt Disney Animation Studios
Lead animator for feature film projects, overseeing a team of 15 animators and ensuring the highest quality of character animation.
Collaborated closely with the director and other department heads to develop and refine character performances, resulting in critically acclaimed animations.
Developed and implemented new animation techniques and workflows, improving efficiency and quality across the department.
Mentored junior animators, providing guidance and feedback to foster their professional growth and contribute to the studio's talent pipeline.
Contributed to the successful release of award-winning animated films, including 'Enchanted Realms' and 'Lumina's Journey'.
Character Animator
06/2017 - 12/2019
Riot Games
Animated engaging and believable characters for the popular video game 'League of Legends', ensuring consistency with established character styles and behaviors.
Collaborated with the game design and VFX teams to create impactful and visually stunning character abilities and interactions.
Developed and maintained character animation rigs, optimizing them for efficiency and ease of use.
Created detailed character animation documentation, facilitating smooth handoffs between the animation and other departments.
Contributed to the successful launch of several high-profile game updates and character releases, helping to maintain 'League of Legends' position as a top-played video game worldwide.
Animation Intern
05/2016 - 08/2016
DreamWorks Animation
Assisted senior animators in creating character animations for the animated feature film 'The Enchanted Forest'.
Collaborated with other interns and mentors to complete assigned animation tasks, meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high quality standards.
Participated in animation critiques and feedback sessions, learning valuable insights from experienced industry professionals.
Developed a strong understanding of the animation pipeline and production processes within a major animation studio.
Contributed to the successful completion of several key character animation sequences, earning praise from mentors and supervisors.
Skills
3D Character Animation
2D Character Animation
Autodesk Maya
Adobe Character Animator
Toon Boom Harmony
Rigging
Lip Sync Animation
Facial Animation
Body Mechanics
Performance Capture
Storyboarding
Character Design
Teamwork and Collaboration
Time Management
Problem Solving
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
09/2012 - 05/2016
California Institute of the Arts, Valencia, CA
Creative Animator Resume Example
A Creative Animator conceptualizes and animates captivating characters/visuals by blending artistic flair with technical mastery. Their resume should concisely showcase formal animation training, outstanding portfolio pieces, expertise in industry-standard software like Maya, and prior creative animation roles. A punchy summary highlights their imaginative talents. Streamlined formatting with reverse-chronological Experience and Skills sections appeals to employers.
Morris Myers
morris.myers@example.com
•
(623) 308-5393
•
linkedin.com/in/morris.myers
Creative Animator
Innovative and imaginative Creative Animator with a proven track record of crafting captivating visual narratives that push the boundaries of storytelling. Skilled in leveraging cutting-edge animation techniques to bring characters and worlds to life, delivering immersive experiences that resonate with audiences across diverse platforms.
Work Experience
Lead Animator
01/2019 - Present
Dreamworks Animation
Spearheaded the animation team for a feature film, overseeing the creation of complex character performances and ensuring the highest quality of animation.
Collaborated closely with the director and other department heads to develop and refine the visual style and storytelling elements of the film.
Mentored and guided a team of 20+ animators, fostering a collaborative and creative work environment that encouraged innovation and excellence.
Developed and implemented advanced rigging techniques that streamlined the animation process and enhanced the efficiency of the production pipeline.
Contributed to the film's critical and commercial success, grossing over $500 million worldwide and receiving numerous industry accolades.
Senior Animator
06/2015 - 12/2018
Industrial Light & Magic
Animated complex action sequences and emotional performances for high-profile film and television projects, consistently delivering work that exceeded client expectations.
Collaborated with VFX supervisors and technical directors to integrate animation seamlessly with live-action footage and CGI elements.
Developed and implemented advanced facial rigging systems that enabled more nuanced and expressive character performances.
Provided guidance and mentorship to junior animators, helping to elevate the quality of their work and foster their professional growth.
Contributed to the studio's reputation for excellence, with projects consistently receiving critical acclaim and industry recognition.
Character Animator
09/2012 - 05/2015
Ubisoft Toronto
Animated engaging and expressive character performances for AAA video game titles, ensuring consistency with the established visual style and tone.
Collaborated with game designers and programmers to develop and implement animation systems that enhanced gameplay mechanics and player immersion.
Created and maintained comprehensive character animation libraries, ensuring efficient reuse and consistency across multiple projects.
Participated in motion capture sessions, working closely with actors and directors to capture authentic and nuanced performances.
Contributed to the success of critically acclaimed titles that set new benchmarks for animation quality in the video game industry.
3D Generalist
06/2010 - 08/2012
The Mill
Created high-quality 3D assets, including characters, environments, and props, for a diverse range of commercial and music video projects.
Collaborated with directors and creative teams to develop and refine visual concepts, ensuring alignment with the client's creative vision.
Developed and implemented efficient workflows for modeling, texturing, and rendering, optimizing production pipelines and ensuring timely delivery of assets.
Animated engaging and dynamic character performances that effectively conveyed the desired emotions and storytelling beats.
Contributed to the studio's reputation for delivering cutting-edge and visually stunning work, consistently exceeding client expectations.