Laika

Character Design Intern

Hillsboro, OR Full Time

The deadline to submit your application is Friday, March 27, 2026 by 6:00PM PDT 

Applications without relevant samples/portfolios/reels will not be considered. 

*Please read the job description carefully before applying to ensure that you show proper qualifications and materials to support your application. 

General Summary 
The Character Design Intern will gain valuable hands-on development production experience and training by working in collaboration with our skilled professionals. Specifically, the Character Design Intern will work under the supervision of the Principal Character Designer where they will assist in the exploration and creation of character designs.  

Job Functions 

  • Assist with early character exploration through researching anatomy, drawing styles, and relevant costumes to be used in final designs.
  • Explore character design elements and develop the attitudes, personalities, and poses of specific characters.
  • Assist with creating 2D designs of full body characters including detailed character turnarounds, posing, and expression sheets.
  • Assist in creating color blocks and character paints.
  • Assist with creating character design elements such as faces, body shapes, hands, hairstyles, and costumes to inform the practical character build pipeline.
  • Participate in review sessions and incorporate director notes. 

Qualifications 

  • Currently enrolled as a senior in college/university, or graduated within the last 12 months, with an emphasis in animation, film, fine arts, or other relevant area of study.
  • Excellent drawing skills including the ability to produce character poses, expressions, and character turnarounds. 
  • Strong understanding of the principles of animation and design. 
  • Knowledge of Photoshop.  
  • Basic understanding of anatomy and facial musculature.
  • Ability to adapt to unique styles and designs.
  • Ability to take direction and incorporate notes quickly and efficiently. 
  • Detail-oriented with excellent communication skills.
  • Able to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Able to work both collaboratively and independently. 

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

  • Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk; stand; sit; use hands to operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; talk or hear both in person and by telephone. The employee must lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee works under typical office conditions and is exposed to variable indoor temperatures. The noise level is usually quiet or moderate.  

Location 
On-site in Hillsboro, OR 

Salary 
$20.00/hour set rate, non-negotiable

Disclaimer 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Please review our EMPLOYMENT DISCLAIMER and MATERIALS SUBMISSION AGREEMENT.