Lead Character Animator/Animation Director

What does the most dangerous alien creature of all time look like in a full sprint? What moves would you need to defeat an oncoming army? How would a 6-legged creature put on pants? If you can answer these questions AND animate the results, we'd like to hear from you. As a Senior/Lead Animator you will be responsible for concepting, animating, and communicating your ideas of how humans and creatures move, directing the animation process and managing the animation team.

Major Responsibilities:
Concept and finalize spectacular hand-keyed in-game and cinematic animation for a variety of characters, both human and creature.
Lead the technical side of animation through custom character rigging and custom tools creation.
Provide critique towards animation and have involvement in the creative process.
Drive and direct the animation system in collaboration with engineering staff.
Lead and manage a team of animators towards efficient and aesthetic completion of tasks.

- Be an excellent character animator.
- Have an excellent aptitude for problem solving and possess an efficient workflow.
- Be able to work with a team.
- Be able to lead and manage a team of animators.
- Have experience with Alias’ Maya animation software and MEL scripting.
- Have five years or more of professional games or motion picture animation experience.
- Would ideally have previous Lead Animator experience.
- Possess the ability to deliver and demand quality animation under extreme pressure and crushing deadlines.
- Must be willing to deliver animation direction and equally give and receive critique.
- Portfolio or demo reel that demonstrates an excellent breadth of hand-keyed animation skills, ranging from cartoony to real-world inspired motion.
- Portfolio animation examples should show both dynamic action analysis as well as character performance.
Must have the desire to create great games.