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Studio Assistant Animation Jobs in Toronto, ON (NOW HIRING)

Thinkingbox

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Toronto, ON · On-site +1

CA$120K - CA$150K/yr

Across our studios, collaboration is real, feedback is open, and culture matters. We take the work ... Direct small to mid-size teams of animators and designers across various projects. * Contribute to ...

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Studio Assistant Animation information

What does a studio assistant in animation do?

A Studio Assistant in Animation supports the animation team by handling a variety of administrative and creative tasks. These can include organizing files, preparing materials for animators, managing schedules, assisting with the setup of equipment, and sometimes helping with basic animation tasks or revisions. The role is essential for keeping the studio running smoothly and allowing artists to focus on their creative work. Studio Assistants often serve as a link between departments and help ensure that projects stay on track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a studio assistant in animation?

To thrive as a Studio Assistant in Animation, you typically need a solid understanding of animation workflows, organizational skills, and at least a relevant associate’s degree or industry experience. Familiarity with animation software (such as Adobe Creative Suite, Toon Boom, or Maya), digital asset management systems, and basic office productivity tools is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help you support creative teams and manage schedules effectively. These skills ensure smooth studio operations, timely project delivery, and seamless collaboration within the animation team.

What is the difference between Studio Assistant Animation vs Studio Assistant VFX?

AspectStudio Assistant AnimationStudio Assistant VFX
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer basic animation or art coursesHigh school diploma; knowledge of VFX software helpful
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, media companies, creative agenciesVFX studios, film production companies, post-production houses
Industry UsageCommonly used in animation and media productionPrimarily in film, TV, and digital VFX projects
Job FocusSupporting animation projects, assisting artists, managing assetsSupporting VFX teams, organizing assets, assisting with post-production tasks

While both roles support creative production teams, Studio Assistant Animation focuses on assisting animation projects and artists, whereas Studio Assistant VFX specializes in supporting visual effects workflows. Both roles require similar foundational skills and work environments but differ in their specific industry focus and technical requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Studio Assistant Animation jobs in Toronto, ON?

For Studio Assistant Animation jobs in Toronto, ON, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Studio Assistant Animation jobs in Toronto, ON look for?

The top searched job categories for Studio Assistant Animation jobs in Toronto, ON are:

What cities near Toronto, ON are hiring for Studio Assistant Animation jobs?

Cities near Toronto, ON with the most Studio Assistant Animation job openings:

Studio Assistant Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Studio Assistant Animation job openings in Toronto, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 69% In-person, 16% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Art Director, Motion - The Heist

Thinkingbox

Toronto, ON • On-site, Remote

CA$120K - CA$150K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

Hi! We're The Heist, the motion design, live action, and post production studio within Thinkingbox, the Brief-to-Built agency.

We bring together directors, designers, animators, editors, and technologists to create work that moves. From brand films to broadcast spots to social campaigns and experiential content, our team blends craft and curiosity to push ideas further. Across our studios, collaboration is real, feedback is open, and culture matters. We take the work seriously. Ourselves, a little less so.

The Opportunity

We're on the hunt for an Art Director, Motion who can lead with vision, inspire teams, and push creative boundaries across a variety of motion design projects. In this hybrid hands-on and leadership role, you'll take ideas from concept to execution, including: storyboarding, styleframing, directing motion designers, and overseeing high-caliber 3D and 2D content for social, branded, commercial, and experiential campaigns.

You'll collaborate with fellow creatives and cross-functional teams to shape the visual direction of projects that range from digital micro-content to full-length animated pieces. You'll ensure creative excellence while mentoring junior talent and maintaining efficiency and clarity throughout the production pipeline.

What You'll Be Doing
  • Lead concept development and the realization of creative direction for motion projects.
  • Create styleframes and storyboards that define tone, motion language, and aesthetic.
  • Oversee/guide and participate in the execution of 3D/2D motion graphics, ensuring quality and cohesion.
  • Collaborate with creative directors, producers, and designers to shape campaign narratives.
  • Give thoughtful and actionable feedback that elevates the work.
  • Direct small to mid-size teams of animators and designers across various projects.
  • Contribute to pitch decks, treatments, and new business efforts when needed.
  • Stay ahead of industry trends, tools, and techniques to continuously elevate our creative output.
What You'll Bring
  • A stunning portfolio demonstrating strong art direction in motion across multiple styles and platforms.
  • 7+ years of experience in motion design or animation, with at least 1-2 years in a senior or leadership role.
  • Strong background in visual storytelling, typography, color theory, and design principles.
  • Expertise in Cinema 4D, Redshift, and Adobe Creative Suite (After Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, Premiere).
  • Familiarity with Houdini, XParticles, Marvelous Designer, or Substance Painter is a bonus.
  • Excellent communication skills - both visual and verbal.
  • Ability to manage timelines, provide mentorship, and balance hands-on work with strategic thinking.
  • A deep passion for craft and a desire to push what's possible in motion.
Additional Info
  • Monday - Thursday in office (Fridays are remote optional)
  • Flexible time off, including paid vacation and sick days
  • Consistent culture and team-building events
  • Employee recognition and incentive programs
  • Seasonal celebrations and gatherings throughout the year 
  • Office lunches 
  • Branded company swag
  • Access to industry events, learning opportunities, and non-profit outreaches
  • Dog-friendly offices
  • Unlimited coffee, drinks, and snacks
  • Flex work and travel options
  • Comprehensive extended health benefits
$120,000 - $150,000 a year
Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as internal equity, candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role. If your compensation expectations fall outside of this range, we still welcome your application.

Equal Opportunity

At The Heist, we're committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity is our creative strength - it's the range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds that fuels our best ideas and most innovative solutions. We welcome and encourage applicants of all races, ethnicities, genders, identities, abilities, ages, sexual orientations, and backgrounds to apply. Your voice matters here.

To Apply

Thank you for your interest in joining our team. Please submit your resume along with links to your online portfolio as part of your application. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we're unable to respond to every submission. However, all applications are kept in our talent database and will be considered for future opportunities.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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