Cinematic Animation Director (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Cinematic Animation Director (Unreal Engine): Creating original cinematic animations for Fortnite and other IPs with an accent on style, appeal, and realistic physics. Focus on leading animation teams, implementing AI-assisted motion generation, and optimizing Unreal Engine 5 workflows.

Location: Cary, United States

Company

hirify.global is a global leader in game development and engine technology, creating the Unreal Engine and Fortnite.

What you will do

• Lead and mentor a team of experienced internal cinematic animators.
• Own animation direction and quality control for both internal and outsourced cinematic animation efforts.
• Create character-specific animations using Unreal Engine's Sequencer and Control Rig toolset.
• Collaborate across disciplines including Production, Technical Animation, and Design to define the cinematic style.
• Direct and utilize motion capture data as a core part of the layout process.
• Research and prototype emerging animation workflows, including AI-driven motion synthesis and video-to-animation pipelines.

Requirements

• Strong animation reel demonstrating expertise in keyframed character and creature animation.
• Experience in a lead or senior role managing animators and owning quality control.
• Proficiency with Unreal Engine and the Control Rig workflow.
• Experience directing and working with motion capture.
• Technical mindset with an interest in pipeline optimization and scripting.
• Must be based in Cary, United States

Nice to have

• Experience animating hard-surface or vehicles.
• Understanding of modeling, skinning, and rigging.
• Hands-on experience with Meshcapade, DeepMotion, Rokoko, or similar platforms.
• Background in scripting or technical art (Python, MEL, Blueprints).

Culture & Benefits

• 100% paid medical, dental, and vision premiums for employees and dependents.
• 401k plan with a competitive match.
• Unlimited PTO and sick time.
• Paid sabbatical after 7 years of employment.
• Robust mental well-being program through Modern Health.