Lead Character Artist (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Lead Character Artist (Gamedev): Overseeing the character design and creation process from concept to integration with an accent on visual standards, technical efficiency, and team leadership. Focus on managing the 2D character pipeline, implementing animation principles, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality assets.

Location: On-site in Vancouver (5 days a week)

Salary: $125,000 - $160,000 per year

Company

hirify.global is a world leader in developing immersive and social multiplayer games, known for titles like Marvel Contest of Champions and Shop Titans.

What you will do

• Supervise the entire character pipeline from concept through modeling, materials, textures, animation, and VFX to final integration.
• Define visual quality benchmarks and guide team prototypes to establish the identity of 2D elements.
• Collaborate with Design, Creative, and Engineering departments to ensure characters support the narrative and emotional tone.
• Partner with technical teams to optimize tools and workflows, maintaining memory budgets and poly count efficiencies.
• Lead and mentor a team of internal and external artists, including animators and VFX specialists.
• Manage external contracting and source key talent to supplement internal studio capacity.

Requirements

• 5+ years of leadership experience in character art or animation within the gaming industry.
• Strong proficiency in 2D illustration and vector-based stylized character design.
• Expert knowledge of industry-standard software: Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Animate, and Spine.
• Deep understanding of anatomy, animation principles, rigging, and weighting applied to 2D animation.
• Knowledge of real-time limitations for 2D assets and familiarity with Unity or Unreal Engine.
• Must be based in or be able to work on-site in Vancouver 5 days a week.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and mental health coverage effective from day one.
• Inclusive DEIB benefits, including gender-affirming and fertility care.
• Flexible spending accounts with a flex credit model and RRSP matching program.
• Monthly cash commuter allowance for transit, parking, or childcare.
• Generous PTO, paid parental leave, sick leave, and dedicated paid days for volunteering.
• Professional growth support through an education stipend and regular lunch & learn sessions.