Double Fine - Lead Animator

DoubleFine

Lead Animator

 

Double Fine Productions is currently looking for a highly experiencedLead Animator for its San Francisco development studio.  The primary job responsibilities include the creation of in-game animations and cinematics that convey charm and personality as well as managing a team of animators.  The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience creating and implementing video game animation, and at least 2 years in a Lead Animator role on a published console or PC title.Knowledge of the fundamentals of animation is critical, as is the ability to give and accept feedback and work well with a team of animators, producers, and programmers.  The ideal candidate has a strong preference for working in a highly creative, innovative, small development environment.

 

Responsibilities:

• Use Maya to create player driven keyframe character animation move sets, npc interaction animation as well as real-time cinematics.
• Work with the technical team to ensure animation assets are properly integrated into the game.
• Establish animation workflows and best practices for the rest of the animation team.
• Work with the Technical Directors to ensure the animators have the needed tools for efficient workflow.
• Work closely with the Project Lead, design team, and Art Director to maintain a consistent vision.
• Setup and run animation weeklies and give animation critiques to the team.
• Help to mentor and support a team of senior and junior animators.
• Contribute innovative and original ideas for the betterment of the entire game.
• Work closely with the project Producer on scheduling and tasking the animation team.
• Work with animation outsourcing teams as needed, and prepare assets for those teams as well as giving feedback.

 

 Requirements:

·         At least 5 years of game industry experience, or equivalent experience in film or television.

·         At least 2 years of experience in the Lead Animator role on a published console or PC game.

·         Fluency with Maya for character animation.  Modeling and rigging skills are a plus.

·         A strong artistic background, with examples of life drawing and an innate ability for storytelling.

·         Experience working with a design team on player driven animation move sets.

·         Experience translating 2d animatics to 3d layouts including camera work.

·         Self-driven individual with strong written and verbal communication skills.

·         Willingness to accept critiques, and the ability to embrace change.

·         Thorough understanding of animation theory and the principles of animation (squash and stretch, timing, anticipation, staging, appeal, etc.) 

·         Exceptional skill in animating bipeds and multi-legged figures, in both action and dramatic acting sequences using keyframe animation

·         Must be able to work full time in San Francisco, CA.

 

Pluses:

·         Avid gamer with a passion for creating top-quality games.

·         Experience working with the Unreal 4 animation pipeline.

·         Experience working on a 2d or 3d platforming title.

·         Familiarity with film and video script and direction terminology.

·         Acting and cinematography skills.

·         Experience in Photoshop, Premiere, and After Effects.

 

 

Due to the immediate nature of this position and current government employment-visa sponsorship restrictions, we are unable to consider foreign candidates. 

TO APPLY: please visit our jobs page