Senior Narrative Gameplay Animator (Project Hire)

We are looking for a Senior Narrative Gameplay Animator with a passion and drive for creating incredible animations for a AAA title. Be the go-to person in supporting immersive, narrative moments throughout the game. The animation will be of the highest quality and in-game functionality. This person will collaborate with other departments and key roles such as the Lead Animator, Camera Layout, Design, Tech Art and Stage. This role will contribute to the unified goal of creating scripted animations that are functional, narrative driven, fluid and will tie into cinematics and gameplay seamlessly. 

Responsibilities:  

• Create and integrate AAA quality animations for scripted moments within the game using Unreal Engine 5 
• Use motion capture optimally and hand-key appropriately 
• Support the creation and maintenance of an Unreal pipeline for scripted events 
• Collaborate and work alongside other animators to ensure that animations are cohesive with cinematics and gameplay 
• Work at the highest level, technically and aesthetically  
• Be proactive with troubleshooting any animation workflow, rigging and pipeline issues 
• Communicate effectively with animators, engineers, realization team, and design, to give and accept feedback 
• Assist in establishing standard methodologies in animation 
• Participate in motion capture shoots when needed  

Requirements & Skills:  

• Proven Senior experience working with motion capture data and hand-key animation in the game industry  
• Working knowledge of Unreal Engine, with an emphasis on animation and Sequencer 
• Ability to work in all aspects of animation including biped, quadruped and vehicles 
• Demo reel showing an understanding of animation principles, while including gameplay  
• Experienced with specific gameplay animation editing including blending, cycles and layering  
• Knowledge of previsualization and cinematography principles 
• Expert knowledge of Maya 
• Experience with creating and integrating scripted animations in engine 
• Experience with facial animation 
• Passionate about games and the enthusiasm to make the best! 
• Strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills 

Qualities:  

• Flexibility in switching tasks to accommodate production priorities  
• Ability to appreciate other department's perspectives  
• Maintain integrity and confidence in results-oriented times  
• Empathic and respected senior 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  

Please note this is a short term contract slated to end December 2026. 

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.

The estimated base pay range for this role is a monthly rate between $9k-$11k USD per month.