Senior Gameplay Animator (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Senior Gameplay Animator (Gamedev): Creating expressive character movements and integrated gameplay animations with an accent on body mechanics and engine implementation. Focus on developing responsive animation systems, state machines, and procedural techniques to elevate the gameplay experience.

Location: Hybrid (3 days a week in studio) or Onsite in Toronto, ON or Troy, NY

Salary: $85,000 - $120,000 CAD per year

Company

A creative studio known for titles like Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit and Knockout City, dedicated to pioneering groundbreaking gaming experiences.

What you will do

• Define and drive the game's animation style using solid body mechanics to improve gameplay feel.
• Own the full gameplay animation process from rough prototyping to polished production.
• Develop in-engine animation systems, state machines, and procedural techniques.
• Collaborate with designers and engineers to solve complex gameplay challenges.
• Mentor other animators by providing guidance, feedback, and support.
• Document animation tools and workflows for the studio.

Requirements

• 7+ years of professional game animation experience with a focus on gameplay.
• Expert proficiency in Maya or equivalent 3D animation software.
• Hands-on experience with in-engine state machine structures.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical needs to Engineering, Tech Art, and Design.
• Must be able to work hybrid (3 days a week) or onsite in Toronto, ON or Troy, NY.

Nice to have

• Experience leading small animation teams or driving animation direction.
• Familiarity with motion matching and modern runtime procedural techniques.
• Generalist skills in modeling or rigging.
• Experience with motion capture.
• Basic scripting skills in Python, MEL, or similar.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive compensation package including potential annual bonuses.
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Retirement savings plan and flexible time-off benefits.
• Inclusive workplace culture that fosters curiosity and diversity.