Position Summary

Swaybox Studios is seeking a talented and detail-oriented Set Layout Designer with strong proficiency in Rhino 3D to join our dynamic production team. The ideal candidate will have a solid foundation in cinematic set design, spatial composition, and visual storytelling, with the ability to conceptualize and build immersive environments using Rhino as a primary modeling and drafting tool.

You will be instrumental in translating storyboards and scripts into tangible set blueprints, 3D layouts, and visual guides that directly inform the fabrication and animation pipeline.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with directors, production designers, and storyboard artists to create set layouts that align with the visual and narrative goals of each project.
• Translate concept art, storyboards, and production notes into Rhino-based technical layouts, blocking, and spatial arrangements.
• Develop detailed 3D models, set drawings, floor plans, and elevation designs in Rhino 3D, maintaining accuracy for fabrication and animation workflows.
• Generate scale-accurate models, set pieces, and scene geometry in Rhino for use by Fabrication, Stage/Camera, and Performance teams.
• Ensure sets are designed with camera angles, character movement, lighting, and puppet/animation scale in mind.
• Integrate story and visual language to craft environments that enhance character performance and narrative intent.
• Adjust and revise layouts based on creative feedback, technical constraints, and fabrication requirements.
• Work closely with model makers, set fabricators, and CG teams to ensure layout feasibility, build accuracy, and production efficiency.
• Maintain consistency of design style and quality across sequences and shots.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Animation, Film, Illustration, Architecture, Industrial Design, or related field—or equivalent professional experience.
• 2+ years of experience in layout or set design for animation, film, or television.
• Strong proficiency in Rhino 3D, including modeling, drafting, and preparing files for fabrication.
• Strong understanding of scale, spatial reasoning, and set geometry, with the ability to accurately translate designs into Rhino-based technical models.
• Ability to troubleshoot and optimize Rhino files for fabrication, 3D printing, or stage use.
• Familiarity with additional design or visualization tools (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, Blender, or Maya).
• Ability to interpret scripts and storyboards into visually dynamic and practical set designs.
• Excellent communication, organization, and collaboration skills.
• Passion for storytelling and world-building.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience preparing Rhino models for CNC, laser cutting, or other digital fabrication methods.
• Experience using Rhino alongside other pipelines (e.g., Blender, Maya, Unreal, CAD) and exporting files in compatible formats.
• Experience with practical set builds or puppetry-based productions.
• Familiarity with stop-motion or hybrid puppet-animation pipelines.
• Knowledge of lighting and camera placement for physical or digital sets.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, iterative creative environment.