Senior Gameplay Animator (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Senior Gameplay Animator (Gamedev): Creating and implementing high-quality gameplay and AI animations for a AAA title with an accent on Unreal Engine integration and character performance. Focus on solving complex animation challenges, optimizing pipelines, and mentoring junior team members to ensure immersive, world-class experiences.

Location: Novato, California, United States (Onsite). Note: Candidates in Quebec must be proficient in both French and English.

Salary: $100,200–$148,320 per year.

Company

A premier game development studio dedicated to creating evocative, immersive, and meaningful AAA gaming experiences.

What you will do

• Create gameplay, AI, and scripted animations using keyframe and augmented mocap techniques.
• Collaborate with programmers and designers to implement and debug animations within Unreal Engine.
• Develop and refine animation pipelines, including rigging and prototyping workflows.
• Mentor, coach, and train junior animators to maintain high project standards.
• Problem-solve and optimize animation systems to ensure smooth, high-performance gameplay.
• Participate in cross-disciplinary reviews and contribute to the overall visual vision of the project.

Requirements

• Senior-level experience on a AAA title is required.
• Expertise in Maya and/or Motion Builder for keyframe and stylized 3D animation.
• Proficiency in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging.
• Strong understanding of character performance, anatomy, and caricature.
• Professional proficiency in both French and English is required for candidates based in Quebec.
• Ability to work onsite in Novato, California.

Nice to have

• Experience with hand-keyed facial animation tools such as Jali.
• Strong background in animating quadrupedal and mechanical objects.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) and life insurance.
• Generous paid time off including 14 holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Participation in 401(k) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program.
• Paid parental and compassionate leave.
• Wellbeing programs, family planning support, and fitness reimbursements.