Animation Technical Artist (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Animation Technical Artist (Gamedev): Translate gameplay and aesthetic requirements into functional character and prop animation workflows with an accent on rigging, skinning, and pipeline automation. Focus on solving complex animation issues, in-engine implementation, and cross-discipline collaboration to deliver high-quality, performant animations.

Location: Hybrid position based in Cardiff, requiring 3 days onsite each week.

Company

Part of the Rocket Science Group, hirify.global comprises a multinational team of AAA veterans delivering player-centric, high-quality game experiences for studios and publishers, with offices in the US and UK.

What you will do

• Rig and own animation workflows for characters and props, ensuring visual consistency, performance, and player-friendliness.
• Integrate art assets into the engine, aligning with creative vision and client expectations.
• Solve complex technical animation problems, develop optimization strategies, and handle undefined scenarios.
• Collaborate with artists, engineers, and production to make assets animation-friendly and technically feasible.
• Participate in reviews, incorporate feedback rapidly, and identify polish opportunities.

Requirements

• 3+ years as Animation Tech Artist, Technical Animator, or similar in game development; shipped at least one game.
• Expert in 3D animation tools like Maya or Blender.
• Proficient in scripting (Python, MEL, C#).
• Working knowledge of game engine animation (Unreal AnimBPs/Montages, Unity Mecanim).
• Strong anatomy, animation principles, and implementation workflows knowledge.
• Excellent collaboration and communication across teams.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits including private pension, medical/dental/vision coverage, annual leave, bank holidays, and winter break.
• Annual research credit, biannual reviews, internal tech talks, and professional development opportunities.
• Flexible working, no crunch, family-friendly policies (6 weeks maternity/paternity/adoption leave).
• Office perks: weekly lunches, snacks, equipped lounge with consoles and games.
• Supportive, creative environment with talented team working on cool projects.