Senior 3D Modeler

Overview

Flying Bark Productions is a dynamic and innovative animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of character animation and storytelling. We are working on projects including Avatar: The Last Airbender feature film, Netflix's Ghostbusters animated series, Stranger Things animated series, and 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.*

About the role

- Construct organic and hard surface models which convey the intent of art department reference and are faithful to the style of the production.
- Define the three-dimensional form and two-dimensional silhouette of all models as briefed and resolve unspecified details as required.
- Follow guidance from the program’s creative and technical leaders to realize the Director’s vision.
- Reconcile the technical requirements of motion picture quality works including efficient use of geometry; an appropriate level of geometric detail; topology suitable for deformation, UV layout and rendering.
- Create, revise and maintain digital character, prop and environment assets and support end users (as required), responding to guidance and review notes from the Director as well as creative and technical supervisors.
- Construct the shapes of 3D digital character, prop and environment models in Maya, with a strong working knowledge of UV layout techniques.
- Have solid knowledge of digital sculpting in ZBrush and/or Mudbox and be self-sufficient in maintaining the workflows between Maya and these packages.
- Ensure that digital assets meet the studio standards, specifications and conventions with respect to appearance and aesthetics, user friendliness, performance, data integrity, and robustness.
- Support and maintain dialogue with other crew members, including Technical Directors, Riggers and Animators, who make use of the digital assets as required.
- Ensure that weekly modelling department milestones and production deadlines are met, and communicate any issues that may impact delivery to production.

About you

- Senior level candidates with production experience in animated features/animated episodic; (7+ yrs) (not live action).
- Portfolios with mature, graphic stylization of reality preferred, in the vein of Spider-Verse, Enter Galactic, Arcane and The Witness [Love, Death & Robots].
- Demo reels focusing on character and modelling.
- Experience in Houdini procedural modelling preferred.
- Solid knowledge of digital sculpting in ZBrush and/or Mudbox and be self-sufficient in maintaining the workflows between Maya and these packages.
- Ability to construct the shapes of 3D digital environments and/or prop models in Maya, with a strong working knowledge of UV layout techniques.
- Solid knowledge of modelling and rigging workflows.
- Ability to consistently meet deadlines.
- Solid experience and understanding of Maya in a production-based environment.
- Good sense of traditional anatomy and proportion.
- Excellent communication skills and willingness to share information in a team environment.
- Ability to take direction and be flexible and responsive to change.
- Ability to work independently as well as under direct supervision.
- A passion for modelling and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.

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 exciting projects — check out our website: https://www.flyingbark.com.au/
- We have an industry-leading studio space in Alexandria, 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 coordinating our busy social calendar.
- The Barkers support charities through Paws for a Cause (Beyond Blue, RSPCA, Cancer Council).
- We love dogs and you may see our regular fluffy companions in the studio.
- We offer a hybrid work approach with flexible work-from-home days.
- Career development is important, with training and support opportunities whenever possible.
- Our employees say our culture is the best they’ve experienced — everyone is welcome and celebrated.
- You’ll have access to mental health resources and free counselling via our Employee Assistance Provider, Support Act.

Flying Bark Productions is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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