2D Concept Designer

Job Description

Boulder Media is on the lookout for a 2D Concept Designer. It is a full-time, specified-purpose role with hybrid working arrangements (i.e., remote and in-studio working). The successful candidate will be available to start in Summer 2025. This role is a hybrid position with fully-remote work considered for the right candidate. The closing date for the applications is the 21st April 2025.

About us

Established in 2000, Boulder Media has become one of Ireland's largest animation studios. Combining our passion, expertise, and experience, we believe in the power of our creativity and our ability to deliver world-class animated entertainment experiences. Boulder has produced many great shows, including Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, The Amazing World of Gumball, El Tigre, Wander Over Yonder, My Little Pony: Pony Life, DC Super Hero Girls, Transformers Cyberverse, Danger Mouse, Cat Burglar, and the Netflix hit feature film – My Little Pony: A New Generation.

About our culture

Boulder Media is not only a very hard-working creative studio, but we also have a jam-packed social calendar. From celebrating the end of each show with wrap parties to our famous Halloween fancy dress and Christmas celebrations to bake-offs, table quizzes, dungeons & dragons, online and offline meet-ups, and sketch-ups. We put on cultural events to celebrate our international staff and make them feel at home, away from home. What makes Boulder Media special is the people that fill the studio and bring life to everything we do. Boulder is a family, a very nurturing and open space for all to come and be themselves and express who they are through creativity. We would love you to be part of our animation adventure!

About the role

The Concept Designer is responsible for visualising and developing the look of characters, props, FX, and environments and producing key shot illustrations. Working from the script, storyline, or briefing to turn descriptions into images, to give form to personality and characteristics. Breathing life into abstract ideas is the primary focus of the Concept Designer. In this role, the Concept Designer will excel by creating images that will animate well and will resonate with audiences. Drawing ability is key, and personal style will factor heavily in the execution of concept art.

Skills & Other Requirements

***Key Responsibilities ***

• Collaborate with the project supervisor/director to brainstorm and interpret the project brief.
• Work closely with the Art Director to help establish a consistent visual direction for the project.
• Research relevant project material, including translation styles, characters, and similar projects.
• Communicate effectively with the Art Director, ensuring that any issues or creative or production concerns are highlighted when creating concepts of art.
• Present concepts, research, and references to the Art Director.
• Interpret initial ideas and create quick sketch drafts for review.
• Create detailed concept designs in a variety of mediums specific to the brief, such as 2D drawings or 3D renders.
• Participate in feedback consultations and note changes.
• Develop characters, environments, props, FX and designs based on feedback.
• Manage project timelines and schedules and report any issues to the supervisor.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of colour, lighting, atmosphere and overall composition.
• Keep up to date with the latest design trends and advancements in technology.
• As part of your continuous development, you are expected to keep up to date with the latest initiatives and developments in your area of expertise/role, such as (but not limited to) training, learning and development initiatives, and mentoring.
• Any other duties company management may deem necessary and reasonably require from time to time.

What would we look for?

• Minimum of 2 years' experience working as a Concept Designer.
• Extensive knowledge of Photoshop.
• Knowledge of 3D modelling is desirable.
• Exceptional drawing skills.
• A broad range of drawing styles.
• Good time management skills and an ability to work to deadlines.
• Excellent communication, visual storytelling, and written skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to interact with team members of different disciplines.
• Must be open to direction and can visually interpret other people's ideas.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple tasks in a fast-paced production.
• Fluent in English, both spoken and written.

What do we offer?

• Competitive salary, depending on skills and experience;
• 21 days holidays per annum (pro rata);
• An extra day off for Good Friday each year;
• Time off for Christmas;
• Paid sick leave;
• Enhanced Maternity/Paternity package;
• Death-In-Service Benefit;
• Employee Assistance Programme;
• Vision/Eye Care;
• Temporary Remote Work Abroad;
• Various in-house social events such as Cake & Fruit Day, Screening nights, Games nights, to name a few.

Boulder Media is an equal opportunity employer committed to supporting diversity and inclusion within our work environment. All applicants, regardless of gender, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race, or membership of the Travelling Community, will be given equal consideration for employment based on their skills, experience, and potential.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us at [email protected] to request accommodation.