Technical Animator (Unreal Engine)

TL;DR

Technical Animator (Unreal Engine): Designing and implementing complex animation systems for creatures and characters with an accent on Animation Blueprints and Control Rig. Focus on building scalable, performance-optimized procedural animation solutions for high-profile game titles.

Location: Must be based in the United States (Remote or On-site in WA/FL).

Company

An independent game development studio known for creating AAA-quality titles like ARK: Survival Evolved.

What you will do

• Design and implement animation systems using Unreal Engine Animation Blueprints and Control Rigs.
• Develop sophisticated solutions for procedural animation, IK/FK systems, and terrain adaptation.
• Create responsive, scalable animation systems for diverse creature types.
• Optimize animation systems for performance, LODs, and large-scale ecosystems.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to refine existing solutions and pipeline workflows.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of professional experience as a Technical Animator or Animation Programmer.
• At least one shipped title in a real-time animation role.
• Expert-level proficiency with Unreal Engine Animation Blueprints.
• Experience with Unreal Engine 5.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice to have

• C++ experience for engine integration.
• Character rigging and skinning skills in Maya.
• Experience with Houdini, Python, or MEL scripting.
• Physics-driven animation knowledge (ragdoll, cloth, custom solvers).

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage including Medical, Dental, and Vision with 100% of premiums paid for employees.
• 401(k) retirement plan options.
• 100% covered Parental Leave.
• Flexible PTO, paid holidays, and unlimited sick time.
• FSA and HSA options available.