Technical Gameplay Animator (Combat/ARPG Focus) – Unreal Engine
Role in brief
Illuvium Labs is looking for a Technical Gameplay Animator with experience in Unreal Engine to focus on combat animations for a multiplayer ARPG. This role involves integrating, polishing, and optimizing character combat animations, collaborating with designers, and ensuring animations synchronize with VFX and audio. Candidates with a background in action combat games and strong Maya skills will be a good fit for this remote, independent team.
About the role
This role involves the technical implementation and refinement of character combat animations within Unreal Engine for a multiplayer ARPG. Responsibilities include integrating animations, perfecting combat timing, transitions, and reactions, and ensuring animations enhance gameplay through synchronization with visual effects and audio. The animator will also debug and optimize the animation pipeline to support fluid interactions.
The successful candidate will collaborate with the design team, offering feedback and suggestions to improve the combat experience. This position requires a deep understanding of animation principles as applied to gameplay, focusing on making combat feel impactful and responsive. The work environment emphasizes iterative development and independent contribution within a small team.
Illuvium Labs operates as an independent game development studio with a remote-first culture. Team members are expected to manage their own schedules and work independently, with an emphasis on delivered product quality. This setup suits individuals who can articulate their own vision and goals, contributing effectively while working remotely with a global team.
The salary for this position is listed between $24,000 and $60,000 USD.
Skills that matter here
- Unreal Engine: The role requires strong proficiency in Unreal Engine's animation components for integrating and maintaining character combat animations.
- Maya: Candidates should have solid experience with character rigging and skinning using Maya.
- Animation: A deep understanding of animation principles, especially as they apply to gameplay, is essential for polishing combat timing and transitions.
Who this role suits
- Someone with at least two years of experience as a Technical Animator on shipped action combat games.
- An individual who thrives in an iterative, independent work environment within a small team.
- A candidate who can clearly communicate ideas and has a strong passion for creating compelling combat experiences.
- A self-starter capable of designing their own work hours and schedule, focusing on product delivery.
From the employer
- Integrate and maintain all character combat animations inside Unreal Engine.
- Polish combat timing, transitions, cancels, anticipation, hit reactions and more.
- Add gameplay juice through synchronization with VFX and audio.
- Collaborate with the design team with feedback and suggestions.
- Debug and optimize the animation pipeline for interactions.
- 2+ years of experience as a Technical Animator on shipped action combat games.
- Strong proficiency in Unreal Engine animation components.
- Deep understanding of animation principles as they apply to gameplay.
- Solid experience with character rigging and skinning in Maya.
- Ability to work iteratively and independently in a small team environment.
- Strong communication skills and a passion for making combat feel great.
- Fluent English.
Questions about this role
What is the remote work policy for this position?
This is a fully remote position, and team members are expected to design their own hours and work schedule.
What level of experience is required for this role?
Candidates should have at least two years of experience as a Technical Animator on action combat games that have been released.
How much does this role pay?
The salary for this position ranges from $24,000 to $60,000 USD.