The Principal Animator will work with a team of combat and 3C designers, writers, artists, animators, and engineers in the creation of compelling player and NPC movement and combat animation content. The Principal Animator is an individual contributor role that creates industry leading animation from previsualization, prototype, to final implementation. The animation content created enhances the moment-to-moment gameplay combat experience and character personality while simultaneously deepening character relationships and world story. Reporting to the Senior Animation Director, the Principal Animator will help set the quality bar and best practices for character movement and the overall combat experience.

You have a passion for the study of the mechanics of human behavior and movement. You are knowledgeable of various forms of martial arts with an ability to apply that knowledge in creation of a compelling combat experience.   The Principal Animator will collaborate closely with artists, designers, and engineers to achieve a seamless integration of animated content into a compelling gameplay experience. The Principal Animator will combine foundational animation skills, technical knowledge, effective cross discipline collaboration to breathe life into the characters on screen.

Responsibilities

• Research and implement new and innovative systems and concepts to fulfill pre-visualization objectives.
• Through animation mastery and demonstration, create and deliver animation content from prototype to final quality that serves as an excellence benchmark and inspiration for the team.
• Through competitive analysis and research, present opportunities to improve workflows to increase animation quality and efficiency
• Partner with Senior Animation Director, combat and 3C’s team, and key stakeholders in the development of mocap shot list and provide mocap direction when applicable.
• Work in tandem with Senior Animation Director to proactively seek advances in mocap data manipulation techniques through evaluating new software features and tool advances that increase animation output and efficiency.
• Through establishing the quality bar for studio animations, mentor and nurture the career development of the studio’s animation team.
• Work with the Senior Animation Director and Technical Art and Engineering Teams in the identification and maintenance of engine technology requirements and performance metrics needed to meet presentation product goals.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' experience in the games industry. 4+ years as a Principal Animator or equivalent.