Motion Designer

Own end-to-end motion design for high-end 2D and 3D animation that turns complex autonomy and mission concepts into precise, cinematic storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Concept and create high-end 2D and 3D motion graphics, including title sequences, kinetic typography, and animated explainers for product, brand, and mission storytelling
• Translate dense technical subject matter (autonomy, sensors, vessel systems, operational concepts) into clear, compelling visuals
• Design and animate UI and data-driven sequences, including HUDs, maps, telemetry, and interface walkthroughs
• Integrate renders and CG assets from the 3D/Visualization team into finished motion pieces, collaborating on look development, lighting, and camera language
• Develop style frames, storyboards, and animatics to pitch and align on direction before production
• Define and maintain Saronic’s motion system, including timing, easing, transitions, typography in motion, templates, and reusable assets
• Ensure motion feels native to Saronic’s identity as part of Brand Design, extending the brand system (type, color, grid, tone) into time-based work
• Raise team quality through critique, mentorship, and sharing new techniques and tools
• Own projects end to end from brief to final delivery while balancing craft with tight timelines and multiple concurrent requests
• Edit, sound-design (or direct sound design), and finish pieces for large-format event displays, broadcast, web, and social in the right specs and formats
• Manage project files, versioning, and asset libraries to keep work organized, handoff-ready, and reusable
• Explore and adopt new tools, including real-time and AI-assisted workflows, when they improve quality or speed without compromising standards
• Work with Marketing, Communications, Sales, Software, Engineering, and Product to understand objectives and keep messaging accurate and aligned
• Partner closely with the Video team and external partners (directors, producers, studios, freelancers) when projects need additional scale
• Support events and demos with on-brand motion assets, often on short turnarounds
• Take feedback from stakeholders at every level, including senior leadership, and apply it to improve work
• Handle sensitive and export-controlled information appropriately, following company guidelines on what can be shown, shared, and published
• Coordinate with security and legal partners to ensure published content is cleared

Requirements

• 5+ years of professional motion design experience in-house, at a studio, or equivalent; portfolio must show exceptional craft, taste, and range (reel required)
• Mastery of Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, plus strong fundamentals in design, typography, composition, color, and timing
• Working proficiency in 3D and real-time tools (Cinema 4D, Blender, or Unreal Engine) and a production renderer (Redshift, Octane, or Cycles)
• Strong compositing skills in After Effects, including multipass CG renders, EXR workflows, and color-managed pipelines (ACES/OCIO)
• Experience designing UI/HUD/data-visualization motion and sci-fi-grade interfaces
• Experience building motion systems, templates, and guidelines for a team
• Proven ability to take a concept from idea through style frames to polished final delivery with minimal oversight
• Experience making complex technical or product ideas simple and compelling
• Strong storytelling instincts and the ability to explain and defend creative decisions
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with a track record working with cross-functional partners
• Comfort working in fast-moving, ambiguous environments with shifting priorities
• Ability to work onsite and travel occasionally for events, shoots, and demos

Technologies

• Adobe After Effects, Adobe Premiere Pro
• Cinema 4D, Blender, Unreal Engine
• Redshift, Octane, Cycles
• EXR, ACES, OCIO
• Lottie, Rive
• TouchDesigner, Houdini
• Nuke, DaVinci Resolve, Figma

Benefits

• Medical Insurance: Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
• Time Off: generous PTO and holidays
• Paid maternity and paternity leave
• Competitive salary with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Stock options (equity options)
• Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
• Discounted pet insurance options including a 24/7 Telehealth helpline
• Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in defense, aerospace, robotics, autonomy, or other deep-tech companies
• Experience with Lottie and Rive, especially Rive for interactive UI and product motion
• Experience with TouchDesigner for interactive and experimental work (conference experiences and physical installations)
• Experience with Houdini, Nuke, DaVinci Resolve, or Figma, including Figma-to-motion workflows
• Sound design and music editing skills, or experience directing audio
• Familiarity with maritime, naval, or DoD/military industry environments

Physical Demands

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Occasional standing and walking within the office
• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment
• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports
• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies
• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)

Location: Austin, TX (onsite)

Minimum experience: 5+ years