Mission

Shape and evolve our Maya-based animation pipeline through robust Python development, artist-centric tooling, and the seamless integration of our proprietary AI animation technologies into everyday production.

About the role

At Animaj, we’re pioneering the future of children’s entertainment by blending creativity with cutting-edge technology.

To ensure that, we are looking for a Maya Pipeline TD / Animation TD with strong Python experience to develop tools and workflows used across layout, animation, rigging, and tech.

You will design and maintain Maya and ShotGrid tools, automate production tasks, support artists, and evolve our animation pipeline. You will also collaborate with the R&D team to integrate our proprietary AI animation models into everyday production workflows.

The role is based in Paris, in a hybrid setup.

Responsibilities:

Maya & Pipeline Tool Development:

• Develop, maintain, and improve Maya tools and Python-based plugins for animation, layout, and rigging teams.

• Build Python automation scripts and pipeline processes that streamline workflows and eliminate repetitive tasks.

• Collaborate with R&D to extend our Maya-based pipeline, integrate new Python modules, and ensure tools scale across productions.

AI Tool Integration:

• Drive the technical integration of our proprietary AI animation tools (Sketch-to-Motion, Motion-in-Betweening) into production workflows.

• Build tracking utilities in Maya to measure tool usage and quantify time savings from AI-assisted processes.

Production Workflow & Automation:

• Design and implement automations to ensure seamless exchange of 3D assets between artists, production, and external vendors.

• Suggest and prototype new tools and workflow improvements to enhance animation and CG production efficiency.

• Ensure smooth operations within our cloud-based virtual studio (AWS AppStream/VDI).

Artist Support & Pipeline Reliability:

• Provide day-to-day support by debugging technical issues in Maya, ShotGrid, and pipeline toolsets.

• Work closely with artists to understand pain points and deliver tailored improvements and ad-hoc tools.

• Around 7 years of experience as a Developer or Technical Director in a 3D Animation or VFX studio, ideally with exposure to series production.

• Strong Python development skills, including automation, tool creation, plugins, and clean, modular code design.

• Proven experience developing tools with the Maya Python API, OpenMaya, and PySide/PyQt.

• Solid understanding of Maya environments: scene structure, rigs, caching, and animation workflows.

• Hands-on experience with CG/Animation pipeline tools, including ShotGrid, asset/publish systems, and workflow orchestration.

• Strong knowledge of 3D production processes, artist workflows, and 3D asset management.

• Mastery of software engineering best practices: version control (Git), unit testing, documentation, and peer review.

• Interest in and familiarity with AI applications in 3D animation.

• Experience working in cloud-based production environments (VDI/AWS AppStream).

• Bonus: familiarity with Blender or Unreal Engine.

• Screening call with the Talent team - (30-45mins)

• First call with Antoine (VP Engineering) - (45 mins)

• Technical challenge

• Focus interview with Antoine and Tristan (3D R&D Engineer) - 60 min

• Final interview with Simon (SVP Production Innovation) & Sixte (CEO) - 30 min