Atomic Cartoons is a Vancouver animation studio under Thunderbird Entertainment Group with credits on Netflix and streaming originals. Open roles cover 2D FX animation, CG FX, layout, and matte painting.
2D FX AnimationCG FX ArtLayout ArtMatte PaintingBackground PaintCharacter Animation
2D FX AnimatorJunior
2D FX AnimatorMid
2D FX AnimatorSenior
CG FX ArtistMid
CG FX ArtistSenior
Layout ArtistMid
Layout ArtistSenior
Layout ArtistLead
Matte PainterMid
Matte PainterSenior
Salary by Seniority
Junior Animator / FXCAD $45K-$62K/yr
Mid-Level ArtistCAD $62K-$85K/yr
Senior ArtistCAD $80K-$115K/yr
Lead ArtistCAD $105K-$130K/yr
Estimates based on Vancouver IATSE 938 scale rates and Thunderbird Entertainment published ranges. Union membership may apply to production roles.
Portfolio Tips
2D FX Animation Reel
Show a variety of FX types: fire, water, smoke, impact effects, and magic. Include pencil tests and finished composited shots. Demonstrate timing, secondary motion, and how effects integrate with character animation.
CG FX and VFX Work
Show Houdini simulations, Maya particle work, and compositing from After Effects or Nuke. TV animation FX budgets require efficient, reusable setups. Show your ability to build fast, believable simulations that render within time constraints.
Layout and Composition
Layout artists establish camera angles, scene depth, and character placement for TV production. Show scene staging, perspective accuracy, and understanding of cinematography principles. Include shots that demonstrate depth of field, parallax, and widescreen composition.
Many production roles at Atomic Cartoons fall under IATSE Local 938 (Moving Image Arts) which covers animation in British Columbia. Union membership or willingness to join IATSE 938 may be required for some production positions.
Does Atomic Cartoons hire junior animators?
Yes. Atomic Cartoons has hired junior and intern-level artists in 2D FX and layout disciplines. A strong showreel and willingness to work on TV production timelines is more important than prior industry experience at entry level.
What software does Atomic Cartoons use?
Toon Boom Harmony is the primary animation software. Maya is used for CG and 3D-assisted production. After Effects for compositing, Photoshop for background and matte painting, and TV Paint for some 2D work.
Are Atomic Cartoons contracts permanent or project-based?
Atomic Cartoons uses a mix of permanent staff and project-based contracts. Senior and lead roles are more likely to be permanent. Production artists may be hired on a per-series basis, especially for large streaming projects.
Can international artists work at Atomic Cartoons?
Yes. Atomic Cartoons can process work permits through Canada’s Global Talent Stream for international hires. Non-Canadians with strong showreels are hired regularly for Vancouver production roles.