Layout Artist

About the role

The Layout Artist defines the 3D foundation of each shot by building and arranging scenes based on previs or supervisor direction. They construct the spatial framework in Maya, place cameras with intention, and ensure every setup is robust and coherent for downstream work. This role collaborates closely with layout, environment, animation, and supervision teams to balance creative vision with technical precision. The artist is responsible for maintaining clarity, supporting storytelling, and meeting both deadlines and project objectives.

Key facts

Location: Canada

Engagement: Full-time

80000.00 - 100000.00 CAD

What you'll do

• Interpret previs or supervisor directives to establish scene structure and layout within Maya.
• Set up cameras in a realistic and coherent manner that respects directing intentions and shot constraints.
• Build organized, stable setups that remain suitable for further stages of the 3D pipeline.
• Identify and resolve blocking or technical inconsistencies during the layout phase.
• Propose layouts that are efficient, clear, and visually engaging while honoring sequence rhythm and readability.
• Refine shot compositions and camera movement to strengthen visual storytelling.
• Adapt or optimize layout when new creative directions emerge.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and optimization in delivered scenes.
• Follow studio naming conventions and technical standards consistently.
• Collaborate with matchmove, animation, environment, and other departments to ensure smooth integration of elements.
• Account for real-world capture data such as LiDAR or photogrammetry when preparing scenes.
• Present work during dailies and interdepartmental reviews, then act on feedback.
• Communicate clearly with production and leads to prevent or resolve blockages and delays.
• Share relevant information with involved departments to preserve overall shot consistency.
• Contribute to improving layout workflows and documenting best practices.
• Stay current with new approaches including virtual production, internal tools, and AI, while expanding technical and artistic skills.
• Participate in training or onboarding when relevant.
• Receive feedback with an open mindset focused on continuous improvement.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of layout experience in the VFX industry.
• Strong proficiency in Maya.
• Understanding of camera principles, photography, and cinematic language.
• Basic knowledge of Nuke and 3DEqualizer.
• Comfort working with on-set data such as LiDAR, HDRI, or photogrammetry.
• Rigor, autonomy, attention to detail, and strong teamwork skills.

Nice to have

• Experience with ShotGrid or other production-management tools.
• Experience in virtual production or working with real-time scenes in Unreal Engine.

Work arrangements

As an artist-founded and artist-led company, creativity is central to everything done at Rodeo FX. The mission is to provide talent with the freedom, resources, and environment required to produce high-quality work and thrive in a stimulating, collaborative, and supportive setting.

Employees are expected to work from the studio at least three days per week. The remaining days may be arranged flexibly, depending on the nature of the role, production needs, and work organization. This balance supports collaboration, preserves studio culture, and encourages the in-person exchanges that are essential to the creative process.

Diversity

At Rodeo FX, diversity is a core value. The company is committed to creating an inclusive, equitable workplace where different perspectives are embraced. Every team member brings unique insight that strengthens creativity, challenges thinking, and helps deliver better work.

Recruitment tools

Rodeo FX may use AI-based tools to support certain steps of the recruitment process, such as interview transcription or preliminary application analysis. These tools may be operated by third-party providers, and data may be processed outside Quebec. These tools never replace human decision-making; all final hiring decisions are made by the recruitment team and hiring managers. To learn more about how personal information is protected and your rights, please consult the Privacy Policy.

Recognition

Rodeo FX is repeatedly voted one of Montreal's Top Employers and Employer of the Year for the 2022 Mercuriades Awards. It is an independent, Oscar®-winning company with close to 900 artists operating from studios in Montreal, Québec City, Toronto, Los Angeles, and Paris.

Client work

Rodeo FX is a creative partner to leading storytellers, including Netflix, HBO, Disney, Marvel, Amazon Studios, Warner Bros., and Sony, and has collaborated on advertisements for YouTube, NBC, and Apple. Current projects include Blue Beetle, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, and Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon. Recently released projects include John Wick: Chapter 4, Black Adam, Disney's The Little Mermaid, and Love, Death and Robots Volume 3, for which the company won a 2023 VES award.