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Technical Animator
1 year ago
The goal at XR Games is to be the best developer of VR titles in the world.
We are a multi award-winning game development studio that specialises in immersive VR games. The studio has a history of full-scale development from concept through to submission working with prestigious partners such as Sony Pictures and Rovio Entertainment.
Since 2020 our team has grown from 20 full-time members to almost 100 by the close of 2022 and due to the success and critical acclaim of our previous projects such as Zombieland: Headshot Fever and Angry Birds Under Pressure. Throughout 2023 & 2024 our team will now be working on multiple major projects with recognisable IP’s & licences as we continue to grow and invest in our future.
The Role
We’re now looking for an experienced Technical Animator who can work across multiple exciting VR projects.
The Technical Animator will be responsible for the design and correct technical implementation of character, Creature and Vehicle animation rigs. They should be able to solve any technological issues related to art/animation production. In close cooperation with the Design, Concept, and Art team they will work on improving the existing pipelines and developing new tools to assist and expedite asset and animation creation.
Responsibilities:
- Create and implement in-game animation rigs as an integral part of the asset delivery pipelines
- Work with the Concept, Design, and Art team to collaboratively bring characters to life.
- Develop technical animation pipelines and tools to deliver cutting edge animations
- Create automated animation setups and rigs
- Add dynamic elements and visual effects to static assets in a meticulous manner, in many formats
- Create intricate but conceptually sound animations that level up the player experience
- Define how elements within projects will interact, build, transition and function from the concept stage to final implementation
- Creatively and proactively solve resource-restricted tech challenges while working on the art assets that make it in game
Core Skills/Experience:
- Strong knowledge of 3DS Max/Maya
- Experience in creating art assets for Unity/Unreal using 3DS Max/Maya
- Experience using Motion Builder
- Proficiency in MaxScript/MEL
- 5+ years game industry experience
- Strong understanding of character animation pipelines
- Ability to adapt to new technologies
- Ability to work as part of a team and take an initiative
- Exceptional verbal and written communications skills
Bonus points:
- Experience/knowledge of: CryEngine / Perforce / other scripting languages (XML, Lua etc.)
- Knowledge of complex rigging
- Experience working with state machines
- Familiarity in working with assets that use Physically Based Shading techniques
Our studio is based in Leeds with a hybrid-working setup as standard. We do accommodate fully remote team members if we need to and will assist financially with relocation for those looking to do so.
Have you made it this far?
If you’re still reading, we think there’s a strong chance you might be our kind of person.
Here’s the thing, though — research suggests that 60% of women and underrepresented folks might have already talked themselves out of applying. Even if you don’t check every box above, we want to encourage you to introduce yourself.
We believe a diversity of perspectives and experiences makes a team stronger — and the stronger our team, the closer we are to developing the best VR games possible.
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