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Lead Narrative Gameplay Animator

Los Angeles or Remote

That's No Moon is an independent studio of storytellers and game-makers who believe in the power of narrative-driven experiences. With a diverse team of talented developers, from some of the top game studios in the world (Naughty Dog, Infinity Ward, Bungie), our shared vision is to create the future of AAA experiences with a culture of creativity, collaboration, and responsible production practices. Our passionate team of developers help shape our studio, our projects, and our future.

We are looking for a Lead Narrative Gameplay Animator with a passion and drive for creating incredible animations for a AAA title. Expect to manage a team of animators to ensure the highest quality and in-game functionality. This person will collaborate with other departments and key roles such as the Animation Director, Camera Layout, Design, Tech Art and Stage. Drive the animation effort in supporting immersive, narrative moments throughout the game. This role will contribute to the unified goal of creating scripted animations that are functional, narrative driven, fluid and will tie into cinematics and gameplay seamlessly. 

Responsibilities:  

  • Create and integrate AAA quality animations that reflect the game design goals and mechanics using Unreal Engine 5 
  • Use motion capture optimally and hand-key appropriately 
  • Work closely with Animation, Camera Layout, Engineering and Design 
  • Oversee narrative moments for all levels, scripted events and custom animations as well as being an individual contributor 
  • Create and maintain motion lists in collaboration with other departments   
  • Support the creation and maintenance of an Unreal pipeline for scripted events 
  • Lead and mentor a team of Narrative Gameplay Animators to ensure that animations are cohesive with cinematics and gameplay 
  • Work at the highest level, technically and aesthetically  
  • Be proactive with troubleshooting any animation workflow, rigging and pipeline issues 
  • Communicate effectively with animators, engineers and design, to give and accept feedback 
  • Assist in establishing standard methodologies in animation 
  • Participate in motion capture shoots when needed  

Requirements & Skills:  

  • Proven Lead experience working with motion capture data and hand-key animation in the game industry  
  • Working knowledge of Unreal Engine, with an emphasis on animation and Sequencer 
  • Ability to create and lead in all aspects of animation including biped, quadruped and vehicles 
  • Demo reel showing an understanding of animation principles, while including gameplay  
  • Ability to bring ideas forward by means of storyboarding, previs or blocking animation. 
  • Experienced with specific gameplay animation editing including blending, cycles and layering  
  • Expert knowledge of previsualization and cinematography principles 
  • Expert knowledge of Maya 
  • Experience with creating and integrating scripted animations in engine 
  • Proven ability to successfully lead an Animation team 
  • Passionate about games and the enthusiasm to make the best! 
  • Strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills 

Qualities:  

  • Flexibility in switching tasks to accommodate production priorities  
  • Ability to appreciate other department's perspectives  
  • Maintain integrity and confidence in results-oriented times  
  • Empathic and respected senior member of the team  
  • Team oriented with a desire to assist other animators  
  • Promote inclusivity, diversity and fairness  
  • Practice patience and be open to giving and receiving feedback  

TNM considers a number of factors when determining each role's base pay range, including industry benchmarks, location, experience, and other job specific skills. In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for other incentive compensation including equity and profit share. The estimated base pay range for this role is U.S. only and not applicable for locations outside of the U.S.

The estimated base pay range for this role is: $150,000 - $195,000

TNM offers competitive and comprehensive benefits that include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, flexible PTO, supplemental life and disability, and more. Eligibility to participate in these benefits may vary based on country of residence and/or part-time or temporary employment status.

That's No Moon is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ancestry, color, citizenship, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, legally protected physical or mental disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

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