Mid-Level C++ Animation Programmer Engine

#JOINTHEREBELLION! For three decades,
Rebellion has stood as a titan of independent game development. Founded by Jason and Chris Kingsley, we are a unique creative powerhouse that transcends gaming. From our state-of-the-art film studios and board game divisions to the legendary worlds of 2000AD and Judge Dredd, we thrive on creative freedom and technical excellence.

We are looking for a talented Mid-Level Animation Programmer to join our elite Tech Team. This is a pivotal role within our Engine Animation Team, where you will contribute to one of our upcoming large-scale projects. You will be part of the seasoned crew responsible for some of the world’s most renowned shooters, working at the intersection of code and artistry to bring digital characters to life.

Category Details

Company Name Rebellion

Position Title Animation Programmer (Mid-Level)

Job Type Full-Time, Permanent

Location Oxford, Warwick, or Runcorn (Hybrid Options Available)

Primary Technology C++ & Asura (Proprietary Engine)

Salary Range £45,000 – £65,000 (Estimated based on UK Mid-Level benchmarks)

Relocation Support Full Package (Moving assistance, temporary housing, and transition support)

Work Model Studio-focused with flexible hybrid discussions

Right to Work Permanent UK Work Authorization Required (No sponsorship)

In the world of high-end tactical shooters and action titles, animation is the heartbeat of gameplay. It is the difference between a character that feels “robotic” and one that feels responsive, lethal, and alive. As an Animation Programmer at Rebellion, you will act as a vital bridge between our animators, technical animators, and project engineers.

Your primary tool will be Asura
, our powerful proprietary engine. You won’t just be “hooking up” animations; you will be architecting the systems that allow for seamless movement, fluid combat transitions, and the expressive character responsiveness that our players expect. This is an opportunity to dive deep into the internal workings of real-time animation, influencing how millions of players experience our digital worlds.

• System Architecture: Develop and implement robust animation code within our in-house engine. You will maintain and evolve features within our animation systems, ensuring high performance and stability.
• Runtime Logic: Focus on the runtime execution of animations, ensuring that transitions are smooth and that the visual appeal of in-game characters is matched by their responsiveness to player input.
• Bug Resolution: Identify and resolve complex bugs within both familiar and unfamiliar areas of the codebase, utilizing advanced debugging and profiling techniques.

• Pipeline Support: Work closely with content creators (animators and tech artists) to design and write tools that empower them to create incredible work more efficiently.
• Class Implementation: Write and test larger C++ classes with complex functionality, ensuring that new gameplay mechanics are integrated seamlessly with the animation system.
• FSM Management: Design and implement Finite State Machines (FSM) and related control systems that govern complex character behaviors and movement sets.

• Technical Writing: Create, review, and update both technical documentation for fellow programmers and user documentation for the art and design teams.
• Cross-Disciplinary Support: Provide technical guidance and support to other team members and programmers from different disciplines, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing.

We are seeking a programmer who is passionate about the “how” and “why” of character movement. You should have a solid foundation in software engineering and a specific interest in the mathematics of motion.

• C++ Expertise: High proficiency in C++ is mandatory. You should have experience developing and maintaining complex, high-performance systems.
• Animation System Knowledge: A strong understanding of the architecture and internal workings of real-time animation systems (e.g., blending, IK, procedural animation).
• 3D…