Netflix Animation Studios is looking for talented Surfacing / LookDev / Shading Artists to join their CG Feature Film team!

About Netflix Animation

At Netflix Animation , we believe that bold, immersive stories have the power to connect the world. We are a creative powerhouse dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional animation by fusing cutting-edge technology with unparalleled artistic vision. Our CG Feature Film division is currently seeking highly skilled Surfacing Artist to join our team in Canada. If you are a visionary artist who thrives on the intersection of technical precision and stylized storytelling, we invite you to help us craft the next generation of beloved animated classics.

Job Overview : Surfacing

Details

Netflix Animation Studios

Surfacing

CG Feature Film

3+ years

$80,000 – $160,000 CAD

Mari, Maya (Houdini is a plus)

Texturing, procedural shading, & 2D-to-3D translation

The Role: Surfacing Artist

As a core member of our CG Feature Film team, you will be responsible for defining the visual language of our characters, props, and environments. You are the bridge between the initial concept art and the final frame, ensuring that every asset on screen is not only beautiful but also narratively resonant.

Your work will be integral to the final visual identity of the project. You will:

• Translate 2D to 3D: Expertly interpret 2D concept designs and translate them into fully realized 3D surfaces. This requires an acute sense of how to preserve the “soul” of a character or environment while adapting it for complex CG production.

• Develop Sophisticated Shading: Create intricate procedural shading networks and textures that look stunning on screen. You will maintain a balance between stylized, artistic flair and physically plausible shading that meets our rigorous production-quality standards.

• Collaborate across Departments: Work hand-in-hand with Art Directors, Production leads, and other departments to ensure visual consistency across the entire production pipeline. Your ability to integrate feedback and adapt your shaders to fit the broader look of the film is essential.

• Push Technical Boundaries: Utilize your deep understanding of UVs, grooming, and material properties to optimize performance without sacrificing visual fidelity. You will be encouraged to experiment with new workflows and contribute to our studio’s evolving animation pipeline.

Who You Are

• Experienced: You bring a minimum of 3+ years of professional experience in animated features, high-end VFX, or episodic production.
• Tool-Agnostic Mindset: You are highly proficient in Mari and Maya . A working knowledge of Houdini is considered a significant bonus.
• Visual Thinker: You possess a sophisticated eye for lighting, detail, and color theory. You understand how light interacts with different materials and how to use this to tell a compelling visual story.
• Technical Problem Solver: You have a solid grasp of complex UV layouts, grooming techniques, and procedural shading. You aren’t just an artist; you are a technician who understands how to build assets that are easy for the lighting and rendering teams to use.
• Team-Oriented Communicator: You enjoy being part of a larger creative effort. You communicate clearly, take direction well, and are committed to supporting your fellow artists to achieve a shared goal.

What You’ll Do:

• Create textures, procedural shading & lookdev for characters/environments
• ️ Translate 2D designs into 3D surfacing while maintaining artistic style
• Ensure stylized but physically plausible shading with production quality
• Collaborate with Leads, Production & Art teams

Requirements:

• ✅ 3+ yrs experience in animated features, VFX, or episodics
• ✅ Strong in texturing, shading, UVs, grooming
• ✅ Tools: Mari, Maya (Houdini bonus)
• ✅ Solid eye for lighting, detail & color theory
• ✅ Excellent communication & teamwork skills

Why Join Netflix Animation?

Netflix Animation offers a culture that values creative freedom, diversity, and professional growth. We are committed to fostering an environment where artists can truly do their best work:

• Competitive Compensation: We offer a salary range of $80,000 to $160,000 CAD , commensurate with experience.

• Holistic Benefits: Our benefits package is designed to support your life outside of the studio, including comprehensive health coverage, robust retirement plans, and generous paid time off.

• Mental Health Support: We prioritize the well-being of our team members by providing dedicated mental health support and resources.

• Global Impact: Your work will be seen by millions of households worldwide. You will play a key role in bringing bold, diverse stories to a global audience.

How to Apply

Are you ready to elevate your career and work on projects that will define the future of animation? If you are a collaborative artist with the technical skills to back up your creative vision, we want to see your work.

Please visit the Netflix Careers portal to submit your application, including your resume and a link to your current showreel. Note: Please ensure your showreel clearly highlights your contribution to the specific texturing, shading, and lookdev shots featured.

✨ Join Netflix Animation & help create bold, immersive stories loved worldwide!

Please visit the Netflix Careers portal to submit your application, including your resume and a link to your current showreel. Note: Please ensure your showreel clearly highlights your contribution to the specific texturing, shading, and lookdev shots featured.