Technical Animator

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Ireland.

📋 Description

• Develop and sustain scalable, real-time animation systems that incorporate AI behaviors and procedural motion.

• Work in close collaboration with AI engineers and gameplay developers to produce adaptive, systemic character performances.

• Assist in rigging workflows, including the design and evaluation of skeletal structures, facial systems, and deformation techniques.

• Create tools (using Python or MEL) that facilitate animation retargeting, pose libraries, motion blending, or state-driven animation logic.

• Prototype and execute motion matching, IK solvers, and procedural animation methodologies that enhance gameplay responsiveness and realism.

• Ensure seamless integration and optimization of animation assets within the engine (preferably Unreal).

• Contribute to the definition and enforcement of animation quality and performance standards throughout the pipeline.

⛳️ Requirements

• Proven experience in technical animation on at least one released AAA title (or a similarly complex real-time project).

• Advanced skills in Maya (required) for animation, rig review, and technical workflows.

• Strong scripting expertise in Python for automation and tool development.

• Profound understanding of rigging systems, character setup, and best practices in skinning.

• In-depth knowledge of animation systems and runtime behaviors (blend trees, IK, state machines, Control Rig, etc.).

• Comfortable engaging in discussions with rigging and animation teams, ensuring rigging outputs align with gameplay and AI requirements.

• Experience with MotionBuilder for motion capture processing (not mandatory).

• Familiarity with Unreal Engine Control Rig and Sequencer.

• Exposure to motion matching, neural animation systems (e.g., DeepMimic, Phase-Functioned Neural Networks), or procedural animation.

• Background or interest in machine learning, behavior systems, or character AI.

🏝️ Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional development and training.

• Flexible work hours and remote work options.

• Collaborative and creative work environment.

• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools.