Senior Technical Gameplay Animator
The Senior Technical Gameplay Animator at PlayStation Global is a pivotal role within the esteemed Naughty Dog studio, renowned for its groundbreaking narrative-driven games. This position is based in Santa Monica, California, and offers a hybrid work environment. The successful candidate will join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and technology in the gaming industry.
In this role, the animator will be responsible for developing and implementing advanced animation systems that enhance in-game character behaviors and interactions. Key duties include creating high-quality animation content, collaborating with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges, and innovating animation pipeline processes to streamline workflows. The animator will also play a crucial role in defining and maintaining the animation style and quality standards for the studio's projects.
Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of experience in technical animation within the gaming industry. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C#, or C++ is essential, along with a comprehensive understanding of in-game animation tools like state machines, blend trees, and inverse kinematics solvers. Expertise in both motion capture and keyframe-based digital content creation pipelines, particularly using software like Maya or MotionBuilder, is required. A proven track record of producing visually compelling animations across diverse game genres is also expected.
The estimated base salary for this position ranges from $126,400 to $227,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Additional compensation packages may include annual bonuses and other incentive plans. Employees are also eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that encompasses medical, dental, vision, and matching 401(k) plans, among other perks.
Naughty Dog fosters an inclusive and collaborative work environment, valuing diverse perspectives and experiences. The studio is committed to innovation and excellence, providing employees with opportunities for professional growth and development. Joining this team offers the chance to contribute to industry-leading projects and be part of a culture that encourages creativity and technical mastery.