Lead Technical Animator (GameDev)

TL;DR

Lead Technical Animator (GameDev): Leading and mentoring a technical animation team, and designing complex runtime animation systems in Unreal Engine 5 with an accent on rigging, skinning, and pipeline automation. Focus on developing Python tools, analyzing character designs for technical risks, and driving R&D for new aesthetic technologies under performance constraints.

Location: Remote within US states or Canadian provinces where hirify.global is registered.

Salary: $100,000–$150,000 CAD

Company

hirify.global is a game development company known for co-developing AAA FPS games and creating new original IP.

What you will do

• Lead and mentor the technical animation team, providing technical support.
• Collaborate with Animation, Art, Design, and external partners on technical requirements.
• Design and implement complex runtime animation systems in Unreal Engine 5 (blueprints, control rig, cloth, physics).
• Oversee rigging and skinning pipelines for characters, creatures, and props.
• Develop Python tools and scripts to automate Maya to Unreal workflows.
• Analyze character designs at concept stage for technical risks and rigging planning.
• Drive R&D for new technologies to enhance aesthetic quality within performance constraints.

Requirements

• 5+ years experience in rigging and skinning characters, creatures, vehicles, and props.
• Expert-level proficiency setting up animation systems in Unreal Engine 5.
• Proficient with Autodesk Maya.
• Strong foundation of Python scripting for content creation tools and automation.
• Strong mentorship and communication skills.
• Experience with motion capture systems.

Nice to have

• Animation key-framing experience.
• Knowledge of C++ or C#.
• Experience writing Maya plug-ins.
• Strong knowledge of facial rigging and deformation.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on major gaming franchises and new original IP.
• Culture committed to evolution, diversity, excellence, and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to contribute to proprietary technology and custom 3D tools.