That's No Moon Entertainment - Lead Narrative Gameplay Animator

3D Animator is needed in United States.

Client: That’s No Moon Entertainment

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Contract: Part-time, Full-time, Part-time and Contractor

Job Description

That’s No Moon is an independent studio of storytellers and game-makers focused on narrative-driven experiences. We are searching for a Lead Narrative Gameplay Animator who possesses a passion for creating exceptional animations for AAA titles. This role involves managing a team of animators to ensure high-quality animations and in-game functionality. The Lead Animator will collaborate with various departments, including Animation Director, Camera Layout, Design, Tech Art, and Stage, to support immersive narrative moments throughout the game and create scripted animations that are functional, narrative-driven, and seamlessly integrated with cinematics and gameplay.

Responsibilities

• Create and integrate AAA quality animations using Unreal Engine 5 that reflect game design goals and mechanics.
• Optimize motion capture and appropriately hand-key animations.
• Collaborate closely with Animation, Camera Layout, Engineering, and Design teams.
• Oversee narrative moments, scripted events, and custom animations while also being an individual contributor.
• Create and maintain motion lists in collaboration with other departments.
• Support the creation and maintenance of an Unreal pipeline for scripted events.
• Lead and mentor Narrative Gameplay Animators to ensure cohesive animation with cinematics and gameplay.
• Work at the highest technical and aesthetic levels.
• Troubleshoot animation workflow, rigging, and pipeline issues proactively.
• Communicate effectively to provide and accept feedback among animators, engineers, and designers.
• Assist in establishing standard methodologies in animation.
• Participate in motion capture shoots when needed.

Requirements

• Proven Lead experience with motion capture data and hand-key animation in the game industry.
• Working knowledge of Unreal Engine, emphasizing animation and Sequencer.
• Ability to create and lead in all aspects of animation, including biped, quadruped, and vehicles.
• Demo reel showcasing an understanding of animation principles and gameplay.
• Ability to bring ideas through storyboarding, previs, or blocking animation.
• Experience in gameplay animation editing, including blending, cycles, and layering.
• Expert knowledge of previsualization and cinematography principles.
• Expert knowledge of Maya.
• Experience in creating and integrating scripted animations in-engine.
• Proven ability to lead an animation team successfully.
• Passionate about games with motivation to excel.
• Strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills.

Additional Qualities

• Flexibility in switching tasks to accommodate production priorities.
• Ability to appreciate various department perspectives.
• Maintain integrity and confidence in results-oriented situations.
• Empathic and respected senior team member.
• Team-oriented with a desire to assist fellow animators.
• Promote inclusivity, diversity, and fairness.
• Practice patience and openness to feedback.

Compensation and Benefits

The estimated base pay range for this role is $154,000 - $188,000, and this may be adjusted based on location, experience, and other job-specific skills. In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for incentive compensation, including equity and profit share. TNM offers competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, flexible PTO, supplemental life and disability, and more. Eligibility for these benefits may vary based on country of residence and employment status.