Job Description

- Animatronics Designer

Job Title:

Animatronics Designer

Location:

Birmingham, UK

Business Unit:

Scruffy Dog Production Limited

Key Purpose of the Job (Position Summary)

As an Animatronics Designer, you will be responsible for the creative design and visual development of animatronic figures and elements used in themed entertainment projects. Working closely with engineers, artists, and project managers, you will translate creative concepts into detailed design specifications that combine artistic vision with functional, mechanical feasibility. Your role will be pivotal in ensuring that the character aesthetics, form, and movement align seamlessly with storytelling and technical requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate with the creative and engineering teams to design animatronic figures that align with project narratives, artistic vision, and functional requirements. Develop detailed concept art, design sketches, and 3D models to visualize character design, form, and movement prior to fabrication. Work with engineers to ensure that artistic concepts can be practically achieved within mechanical, material, and budgetary constraints. Design and specify materials, finishes, and colour palettes for animatronic skins, costumes, and external components, ensuring durability and aesthetic quality. Assist in the development of movement studies and motion paths to ensure realistic, expressive, and fluid character animation. Support the prototyping and fabrication stages by reviewing mock-ups, sculptures, and models to ensure alignment with design intent. Collaborate with the fabrication and assembly teams to address design challenges and implement adjustments during production. Stay up to date with industry trends, technologies, and materials relevant to animatronic design, and incorporate innovative techniques to enhance project outcomes. Ensure all design documentation, drawings, and renderings are prepared and organized for internal review, client presentations, and production handover.

Key Skills / Experience Required

Educational Qualification

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Industrial Design, Product Design, Mechanical Design, or a related creative/technical discipline.

Additional Qualifications / Certifications

Proficiency in 3D design and visualization software (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Blender, ZBrush, or Autodesk Maya). Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, motion, and ergonomics in character development. Experience in material selection and surface detailing for lifelike and durable animatronic designs. Strong artistic sensibility and the ability to translate narrative and character traits into physical form. Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively across creative and technical departments. Previous experience in themed entertainment, prop design, or character fabrication is highly desirable.
Job Type: Freelance

Work Location: In person