Director Animation (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Director Animation (Gamedev): Lead the Animation team in crafting high-fidelity animations for a new IP game with an accent on run-time action cinematics, 1st/3rd person gameplay, and AI animations. Focus on using motion capture, hand-keyed techniques, proprietary game engine tools, and collaboration for ultimate player immersion.

Location: Must be based in Santa Monica, California (US); Malmö, Sweden; or Warsaw, Poland offices with an onsite schedule of 4 days per week.

Salary: $134,000–$247,900 Annual (US).

Company

Studio developing a new IP as part of Activision, focused on iconic gaming experiences.

What you will do

• Work with Animation Directors, Leads, and Producers to ensure highest quality and efficient delivery of animations.
• Create high-fidelity run-time action cinematics, gameplay, and AI animations using motion capture and hand-keyed techniques.
• Implement and maintain animations using proprietary tools in the game engine.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners for qualitative and efficient task completion.

Requirements

• +12 years leading animation for game development
• Extreme passion for animation, video games, and entertainment.
• Outstanding hand-keyed animation ability.
• Excellent Maya animation experience.
• Understanding of all animation department roles, game tech capabilities/limitations.
• Experience taking animation systems from concept to completion; strong cross-department relationships and communication skills.

Nice to have

• Technical animation experience or leading content teams in AAA games.
• Shipped 1+ AAA games.
• Master’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science or related.
• Shader programming languages experience.
• Animation compression and streaming experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, HSA/HRA, life/AD&D/disability insurance.
• 401(k) with match, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays/vacation/sick time, parental leave.
• Mental health programs, fitness, free/discounted games, voluntary benefits.
• Potential relocation assistance if required to move.
• Inclusive environment emphasizing mutual respect, empathy, and collaboration.