Technical Animator (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Technical Animator (Unreal/Maya): Developing and maintaining animation workflows and character rigs for high-quality game production with an accent on deformation systems and pipeline efficiency. Focus on building robust facial setups, implementing performance capture workflows, and bridging the gap between creative and technical teams.

Location: Must work from the UK (Remote, Hybrid, or Onsite in Nottingham)

Company

hirify.global is the developer behind the BAFTA-nominated hit Dead Island 2.

What you will do

• Act as a vital link between creative and technical departments to ensure seamless animation integration into the production pipeline.
• Create high-quality character rigs and skinning for both body and facial animation.
• Design and implement animation pipelines in Maya, including performance capture workflows.
• Provide technical support and solve complex problems for content creation teams.
• Develop and maintain standards for quality, consistency, and efficiency across all animation systems.
• Collaborate with Animation Leads and Character Art teams to iterate and improve pipelines.

Requirements

• Must be based in the UK.
• Solid understanding of character deformation techniques, dynamics, and facial rigging methodologies.
• Working knowledge of Unreal Engine 4/5 and its animation toolset.
• Experience with Maya Python for tool and pipeline development.
• Experience using Motion Capture technology, including retargeting and data processing.
• Experience with Facial Capture technology and Facial Analysis software.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible working hours with core hours from 9:30 am to 4 pm.
• Relocation support to Nottingham, UK, if required.
• Comprehensive health benefits including Private Medical Insurance (AXA Health) with dental and optical cover.
• Company pension contribution and Life Assurance Scheme.
• Studio-funded learning and development opportunities and clear career progression.
• Vibrant studio culture with quarterly cross-team events and weekly office treats.