Technical Animation Designer

We are looking for a Technical Animation Designer with a passion for creating and maintaining the animation systems, workflow and integration solutions for a AAA title. The Technical Animation Designer will be a member of the Animation Engineering Team and collaborate with other departments such as Animation, Design, Motion Edit, and Tech Art. This role will support gameplay systems, mechanics and contribute to the unified goal of crafting animations that are functional, responsive, fluid and will tie into cinematics and story.  

Responsibilities:  

• Support the creation and integration of AAA quality gameplay animations that reflect the game design goals and mechanics using Unreal Engine 5 
• Create and maintain Unreal Engine Blueprints for animation systems and state machines 
• Work closely with the Lead or Senior Animator, engineering and design teams to support systems such as motion matching 
• Collaborate with the animation team to make sure cinematics and gameplay are cohesive and supported 
• Use and develop debug tools to solve animation issues that arise in engine  
• Work at the highest level, technically and aesthetically 
• Be proactive, assisting with troubleshooting workflows, rigging and pipeline issues 
• Effectively connect with animators, engineers, and design, to give and accept feedback 
• Support animation tool and workflow development with documentation 

Requirements & Skills:  

• Comprehensive understanding of Unreal Engine Blueprints, state machines, blend spaces, montages, AnimGraphs, and Event Graphs 
• Strong understanding of 3Cs to expertly craft systems that attain the design goals of the game. 
• Experience working with motion capture data and hand-key animation in the game industry with an emphasis on technical knowledge of integration practices 
• Working knowledge of scripting and code systems 
• Technical working knowledge of Maya 
• A passion for making games and the enthusiasm to make the best 
• Strong technical problem-solving and interpersonal skills 

Qualities:  

• Flexibility in switching tasks to accommodate production priorities  
• Ability to appreciate other departments’ perspectives  
• Maintain integrity and confidence while working in a fast-paced environment 
• Approachable and respected 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.
TNM offers competitive and comprehensive benefits that include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, unlimited PTO, supplemental life and disability, and more. Eligibility to participate in these benefits may vary for part-time or temporary employees.  
The estimated base pay range for this role is: $70,000 - $115,000