Full-Time

Senior Technical Gameplay Animator

Updated on 12/13/2024

Naughty Dog

Naughty Dog

501-1,000 employees

Develops story-driven video games for PlayStation

Entertainment
Gaming

Compensation Overview

$126.4k - $227.5kAnnually

+ Bonus + Profit Sharing

Senior

Santa Monica, CA, USA

Category
Character Design
Animation
Art, Graphics & Animation
Required Skills
Python
C#
C/C++
Requirements
  • 5+ years of industry experience in technical animation for games
  • Proficiency in Python, C#, C++ or other programming languages is required
  • Full understanding of in-game animation tools like state machines, blend trees, IK solvers, etc.
  • Expertise with mocap and keyframe based digital content creation pipelines built on Maya or Motionbuilder
  • Proven track record of creating visually stunning animations for diverse game genres
  • Proactively contributes to the progress of the team and the project
  • Strong eye for animation and in-depth knowledge of how to achieve realistic motion using modern in-game animation techniques
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on achieving high-quality gameplay animation
  • Strong leadership and mentoring skills
  • Experience developing animation tools
  • Character rigging experience
  • Experience setting up in-game physics assets
Responsibilities
  • Facilitate the creation and implementation of tools and techniques that allow the building of complex and high-quality animation systems
  • Innovate and streamline animation pipeline processes and workflows
  • Collaborate with the Animation, Design, and Engineering teams to analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve in-game animation implementation issues and animation-related technical challenges
  • Create high quality animation content supporting the newly developed behaviors and systems and implement it in engine
  • Work with the animation leadership on defining and maintaining the style and quality bar of the in-game animation
  • Take ownership of challenging projects and provide innovative solutions, including mentoring team members and creating documentation
  • Contribute to the strategic development of internal technologies and artistic processes

Naughty Dog develops video games, focusing on creating high-quality, story-driven experiences for players. Their games, such as Crash Bandicoot, Uncharted, and The Last of Us, are designed to engage players emotionally and are exclusive to PlayStation platforms. This exclusivity helps boost PlayStation console sales and builds a loyal fan base. Naughty Dog generates revenue primarily through game sales, downloadable content, and partnerships, including adaptations like the HBO series for The Last of Us. The company stands out from competitors by consistently delivering award-winning titles that emphasize character-driven storytelling and advanced technology, aiming to provide memorable gaming experiences.

Company Stage

Acquired

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Santa Monica, California

Founded

1984

Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Increased interest in space-themed games boosts 'Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet' potential.
  • Raf Grassetti's hiring could enhance artistic direction and attract new fans.
  • PlayStation 5 Pro upgrades for The Last of Us could drive sales.

What critics are saying

  • 'Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet' may not meet high expectations of past franchises.
  • Raf Grassetti's hiring could lead to creative clashes within the studio.
  • PlayStation exclusivity limits market reach amid rising cross-platform gaming trends.

What makes Naughty Dog unique

  • Naughty Dog is renowned for its emotionally engaging, story-driven video games.
  • The studio's exclusivity to PlayStation platforms fosters a dedicated fan base.
  • Naughty Dog's innovative use of cutting-edge technology enhances gaming experiences.

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