Senior Cinematic Animator

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Cinematic Animator based in the United States.

This role is centered on crafting high-impact, visually compelling in-game cinematics that bring narrative moments to life. You will contribute across the full cinematic pipeline, from interpreting scripts and designing scene layouts to final animation implementation within the game engine. Working closely with animation leadership, you will help define and uphold the visual storytelling and performance quality of cinematic sequences. The environment is highly collaborative, blending creative direction, technical execution, and cross-team integration. You will play a key role in ensuring characters deliver believable, emotionally engaging performances through both body and facial animation. This position offers the opportunity to influence how players experience story-driven moments at the highest level of interactive entertainment.

• Develop high-quality cinematic animations using both motion capture and hand-key techniques, ensuring alignment with production schedules and performance standards.
• Collaborate with animation leadership to translate narrative direction into engaging cinematic sequences consistent with the game’s visual style and storytelling goals.
• Refine character performances, including facial and body animation, to achieve emotionally believable and immersive cinematic moments.
• Work closely with multiple departments to ensure seamless integration of cinematics into the game engine and overall gameplay experience.
• Participate in review sessions, incorporate feedback, and iterate on animations to meet creative and technical expectations.
• Apply strong understanding of animation principles, staging, and camera work to enhance cinematic storytelling quality.
• Track tasks and manage production workflows using tools such as Jira and Flow while communicating progress and risks effectively.
• Mentor junior artists and contribute to a collaborative, quality-driven animation team environment.

Requirements:

• 7+ years of experience in cinematic animation, game animation, or related entertainment production roles.
• Strong expertise in both motion capture and keyframe animation techniques for character performance.
• Proven ability to create high-quality cinematic sequences within real-time game engines.
• Deep understanding of animation fundamentals, including acting, timing, staging, and cinematic camera principles.
• Experience collaborating in cross-functional, production-driven environments with strong communication skills.
• Ability to interpret creative direction and translate it into polished, production-ready animation work.
• Proficiency with production tracking tools such as Jira and workflow management systems.
• Strong mentoring mindset with the ability to support and guide junior artists.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating cinematic storytelling and character performance work.

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly compensation ranging from $76.92 to $86.06 USD, based on experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• Access to structured learning and career development opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements supporting remote collaboration
• Paid time off and holiday benefits (varies by eligibility and location)
• Supportive, creative production environment focused on innovation and storytelling excellence
• Additional employee wellbeing and support programs