Senior Technical Animator

Our client, a leading studio in the interactive entertainment space, is looking for a highly skilled Senior Technical Animator to join their talented team in Pretoria . This role is critical in bridging the gap between art and programming, focusing on developing and maintaining animation systems, tools, and pipelines that enable the creation of lifelike and responsive character movements. You will work closely with animators, riggers, and game designers to ensure the animation quality meets the highest standards while optimizing for performance.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of animation principles, rigging, scripting, and engine integration. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects and influence the animation technology within a renowned company based in Pretoria . We are committed to fostering a collaborative and innovative environment where technical expertise in animation is paramount. Join us to shape the future of character performance in games.

• Develop, implement, and maintain animation systems, tools, and pipelines.
• Create and integrate character rigs for animation, ensuring flexibility and performance.
• Write scripts (e.g., Python, MEL) to automate animation tasks and improve workflow efficiency.
• Collaborate with animators to troubleshoot animation issues and optimize character movements.
• Work with game designers to implement character behaviors and interactions within the game engine.
• Ensure animation assets are optimized for performance across target platforms.
• Provide technical support and training to the animation team.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in animation technology and game engines.
• Contribute to the technical design and problem-solving for complex animation challenges.

• 5+ years of experience as a Technical Animator or in a similar role within the game development industry.
• Strong proficiency in 3D animation software (e.g., Maya, 3ds Max) and rigging techniques.
• Expertise in scripting languages such as Python, MEL, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Solid understanding of animation principles, kinematics, and character mechanics.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Perforce, Git).
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities.
• A portfolio showcasing technical animation skills and pipeline contributions is required.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment in Pretoria .

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on exciting and visually stunning game titles.
• A creative and supportive team environment.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• Contribute to the technological advancements in game animation.
• Remote work flexibility.