2D Animation Apprentice

About BUCK:

BUCK is a talent-driven, global creative company with offices in Los Angeles, New York, Sydney, London and Amsterdam. Since 2004 we have been building a home for the world’s most talented dreamers, makers, and doers in a collaborative, ego-free culture that breeds partnership and creative ambition. At our core, we exist to find creative opportunities in every challenge, not just to think, but to make, and ultimately put extraordinary things into the world that inspire people.

Job Description:

At BUCK, we realize that there is nothing more powerful than someone willing to learn and grow in order to hone their craft. This is why BUCK is looking for talented and driven people to join teams across our many departments as an Apprentice. Apprentices are considered to be a valuable part of our team and process. In fact, 35% of our current team first joined us as an apprentice; we now have Department Heads and Group Creative Directors who have had their entire career at BUCK. The ideal candidate is someone with some professional experience, but more importantly, we are looking for those who are curious and willing to learn. This opportunity is best suited for recent graduates, self-taught artists, and anyone in between.

This role focuses on the technical execution and artistic development of animation, bringing designs and storyboards to life primarily using After Effects and Cavalry. You will be responsible for applying the principles of motion—such as timing, weight, and smooth transitions—to deliver high-quality animated segments for diverse client projects.

What we can expect from you:

Commitment & Location:

• Six-month, full-time apprenticeship.

• Candidates must live within a commutable distance from the LA or NY BUCK office locations and be able to be on-site for the apprenticeship.

Responsibilities:

• Work closely with your assigned mentor to reach your personal and assigned goals for the apprenticeship.

• Continuously update your skill set and learn new tools to meet the evolving needs of the department, clients, and market.

• Share insights with the department and the wider BUCK team, promoting the department’s culture of collaboration and growth.

• Proactively offer assistance and support to the department and your peers, actively seeking opportunities to contribute.

Requirements:

• 2+ years of experience studying or working in an industry relevant to the skillset.

• Must be efficient, detail-oriented, organized, and able to work under tight deadlines.

• A team player who will fit into our collaborative team and ego-free culture.

• Ability to work autonomously and develop a strong, unique point of view (POV).

• Takes direction well and embodies a collaborative spirit.

• Strong motion behavior and animation skills.

Skills and Software knowledge we look for:

• Adobe Suite (After Effects)

• Cavalry

• Rive

• Good Eye for Design

• C4D

• A plus: Storyboarding

What you can expect from us:

• The chance to work alongside collaborative teams under some of the most talented artists in the world to build knowledge, skills, and responsibility to further your career.

• Be paired up with a mentor for the duration of the program. The mentor will be an active staff member who will support your education and experience at BUCK.

• A formal midpoint review, in addition to check-ins throughout the program.

When applying, keep in mind:

• The website you provide should be updated, working, and accessible, and passwords must be provided.

• Project breakdowns accompanying reels are always helpful.

Due to the amount of applications we receive, you might not hear back right away, and it’s difficult to provide individual feedback for everyone. We’ll reach out to you if this is a good fit!