Expert Animation Programmer (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Expert Animation Programmer (C++/Unreal): Developing next-generation character animation systems leveraging generative models with an accent on realistic character motion and tool development. Focus on designing advanced animation systems, optimizing performance across platforms, and prototyping procedural and physics-based techniques.

Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada. Can be hybrid/in-office or fully remote.

Salary: $180,100 - $247,600 CAD annually

Company

A studio dedicated to creating revolutionary, story-driven RPGs that resonate deeply with gamers.

What you will do

• Design and implement advanced animation systems and tools to complement generative models for realistic character motion.
• Collaborate with ML researchers, animators, and game designers to define high-quality animation features and workflows.
• Optimize and debug animation code for performance, memory, and stability across multiple target platforms.
• Prototype new animation techniques, including procedural generation and physics-based systems.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to code reviews to maintain high quality and documentation standards.
• Coordinate with lead engineers to plan project milestones and deliver work on schedule.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in game programming with a focus on character animation systems.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and experience with performance optimization.
• Deep understanding of real-time 3D animation principles, kinematics (IK/FK), and rigging systems.
• Strong math skills, particularly linear algebra and vector math.
• Experience working with large-scale game engines, preferably Unreal Engine.

Nice to have

• Experience with Motion Matching, procedural animation techniques, and physics simulation.
• Familiarity with animation pipelines and DCC tools like Maya or Blender.
• Prior experience shipping a AAA title.
• Knowledge of parallel programming and GPU optimization techniques (e.g., CUDA, compute shaders).

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive company-paid medical healthcare (dental, vision, and mental) and free mental health support.
• Generous paid leave: 26 days of vacation, 10 sick days, and 12 calendar holidays per year.
• RRSP with employer matching and a $100 monthly Lifestyle Spending Account for wellness and home office.
• Inclusive policies including menstrual leave and the RED Parents Network.
• Professional growth via internal workshops, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and e-learning.
• Flexible working hours and a casual, dog-friendly international office environment.