El Guiri Studios hiring Senior 3D Animator (Freelance)

El Guiri Studios is looking for elite Senior 3D Animators to join our Madrid-based creative powerhouse. We are entering an intensive production phase for two high-profile projects launching in April 2026 . This is a unique opportunity to work with a studio known for its distinct artistic vision and high-caliber storytelling.

3D Animator Job Overview

• Company Name: El Guiri Studios
• Position Title: Senior 3D Animator
• Location: Madrid , Spain (Hybrid)
• Job Type: Freelance / Contract
• Contract Duration: April 2026 – Late September 2026
• Estimated Day Rate: €250 – €400 (Based on seniority & portfolio)
• Primary Software: Autodesk Maya
• Work Mode: Hybrid (Mix of on-site in Madrid and remote)

About El Guiri Studios

Based in the heart of Spain’s cultural capital, El Guiri Studios is a boutique animation house that punches far above its weight class. Founded by industry veterans, the studio specializes in high-end character-driven content that blends traditional animation sensibilities with cutting-edge 3D technology.

We don’t just “move” characters; we breathe life into them. At El Guiri, you will find an environment that prioritizes the “acting” in animation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in short-form and feature-quality production. Our upcoming 2026 slate requires animators who can handle nuance, comedy, and high-octane action with equal finesse.

The Role: Senior 3D Animator

As a Senior 3D Animator on our 2026 projects, you will be responsible for defining the soul of our characters. We aren’t looking for button-pushers; we are looking for digital actors. You will report directly to the Animation Supervisor and Animation Director, translating their vision into fluid, expressive, and technically sound movement.

Core Responsibilities as Senior 3D Animator

1. High-End Character Animation Your primary focus will be the creation of top-tier 3D animation using Autodesk Maya . You must demonstrate a mastery of the 12 principles of animation, applying them to both hyper-stylized and realistic character rigs. This includes:

• Body Mechanics: Executing weight, balance, and physical interaction with the environment.

• Facial Performance: Crafting emotive, subtle facial expressions that convey internal thought processes.

• Lip Sync: Precise synchronization for English-language dialogue, ensuring phonemes and mouth shapes feel organic and grounded.

2. Directorial Alignment Animation is a collaborative art. You will be expected to:

• Comprehend and execute complex creative direction from the Animation Supervisor or Director.

• Rapidly iterate on shots based on feedback while maintaining the integrity of the original performance.

• Participate actively in “dailies” and department meetings, contributing ideas that improve the overall quality of the sequence.

3. Reference and Research:
El Guiri Studios values authenticity. You will be encouraged (and required) to record your own video references. By acting out the shots yourself, you will gain a deeper understanding of timing, center of gravity, and the “micro-movements” that make an animation feel lived-in.

4. Production Discipline In a fast-paced environment, reliability is as important as talent. You will:

• Meet all project deadlines and milestones as defined by the Production Department.

• Manage your time effectively across multiple shots, ensuring the “hero” moments get the attention they deserve without sacrificing the quality of secondary tasks.

Qualifications & Skills

El Guiri Studios is seeking professionals who have “battle-tested” experience in high-pressure animation environments.

• Experience: A minimum of 3+ years of professional production experience. This can include work on feature films, episodic series, high-end shorts, or cinematic cutscenes for AAA gaming.

• Software Mastery: Expert-level knowledge of Autodesk Maya . You should be comfortable with complex rigs and have a solid understanding of graph editor optimization.

• Artistic Versatility: The ability to adapt to the specific “house style” of our current projects. Whether the show requires “snappy” 2D-influenced 3D or smooth, cinematic realism, you must be able to pivot your technique.

• Problem Solving: You don’t just flag issues; you find workarounds. Whether it’s a technical rig limitation or a tricky bit of physics, you possess the analytical skills to solve it.

• Language: While the studio is based in Madrid, the production language and lip-sync requirements are in English . Proficiency in English is essential.

Working in Madrid (The Hybrid Model)

This role is offered as a Hybrid position. While we value the flexibility of remote work, we believe that the creative “spark” often happens in person.

• The Madrid Studio: Located in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, our studio offers a collaborative space designed for artists.

• The Synergy: Candidates must be able to commute to the Madrid office for key creative milestones, team-building sessions, and initial onboarding.

Why Join El Guiri in 2026?

1. Creative Excellence: We specialize in projects that stand out. Your reel will benefit from the unique aesthetic and high-performance requirements of our 2026 slate.

2. Veteran Leadership: Work under some of the most respected names in the Spanish and international animation scenes.

3. Elite Team: Join a hand-picked group of freelancers and staff who are all operating at the top of their game.

4. Madrid Lifestyle: Enjoy the world-class food, culture, and climate of Spain while working on international-grade content.

How to Apply

We want to see your best work. Please ensure your demo reel focuses on acting and body mechanics .

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