Principal Animator

Summary  

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Animator to join our dynamic team. As Principal Animator, you will be responsible for creating high-quality character and creature animations that define the quality of animation across our game world. You will have a direct impact on the player's experience by ensuring that our animations are fluid, realistic, and enhance the overall gameplay. 

Core Responsibilities  

• Set the standard for all character, creature, and object animations.  
• Collaborate with the Animation Director to define the animation style and direction.  
• Oversee the rigging process and ensure that rigs are optimized for animation.  
• Work closely with the gameplay and cinematics teams to ensure animations are integrated seamlessly.  
• Provide feedback and mentorship to other animators.  
• Ensure animations meet performance and memory constraints for different platforms.  
• Stay current with industry trends and techniques in animation.  

Core Qualifications  

• Bachelor’s degree in Animation, Fine Arts, or related field.  
• 7+ years of experience in animation within the video game industry.  
• Proficiency in Maya and other industry-standard animation tools.  
• Strong understanding of anatomy, motion, and weight in animation.  
• Experience with both keyframe animation and motion capture techniques.  
• Experience with UE5.  
• Proven track record of leading animation teams and delivering high-quality content.  
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and communicate effectively.  

Plus if...  

• Experience with creature animation and complex character rigs.  
• Knowledge of physics-based animation systems.  
• Previous work on AAA titles or games with a focus on realistic animation.  
• Experience working with Co-developers and outsource vendors.  

Description  

• Full-time job with benefits.  
• Role is on-site in Santa Monica, CA or San Rafael, CA.  

The base pay range for this position is $140,000 to $175,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including paid time off, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.