Lead Animation Engineer

Archetype Entertainment is a new game studio in Austin, Texas led by industry veterans from BioWare and other AAA studios. Archetype is a division of Wizards of the Coast (Hasbro). We are building a development team with world-class talent to create a new science fiction universe for our first multiplatform roleplaying video game.

Our goal is to create the greatest story-driven roleplaying games in the world.

At Archetype, we believe there will always be a place for story-driven roleplaying games that put the player at the center of an epic personal narrative with impactful choices. We also believe that game studios should empower top developers and challenge them with ambitious projects that are shaped by a strong, clearly communicated creative vision.

We chose Austin because it is a great place to live and work. Austin is the capital of Texas and is a fast-growing city with a vibrant music scene, cosmopolitan culture, a world-class university (the University of Texas at Austin -- “Hook ‘em Horns!”), and scenic rolling hills.

We are seeking a Lead Animation Engineer to join our growing team. In this role, you will architect and build high quality animation systems for our exciting next-generation project. The ideal candidate is a collaborative and conscientious engineer with deep knowledge of developing AAA games.

What You’ll Do

• Design, develop, test, and implement animation systems in Unreal 5
• Implement and maintain gameplay systems with a focus on animation and character movement
• Optimize game performance to ensure smooth frame rates and overall performance
• Partner with the animation team to ensure seamless integration of assets into the game
• Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback to other members of the engineering team
• Continuously research and explore new technologies and game development techniques to improve the game's overall quality
• Accurately estimate effort and deliver high quality results

What You’ll Bring

• 5+ years of engineering experience implementing animation systems with at least 2 shipped AAA titles
• Unreal Engine experience
• Expertise in animation systems such as: state machines, ragdolls, IK, compression, morph targets, and facial animation
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a team
• An eagerness to learn, grow, and become a leader in animation

Compensation Range, Currency USD:

• Starting Pay Range: $141,500
• Pay Range End: $242,800

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation range for this role. The range listed is just one component of Wizards of the Coast’s total compensation package for employees. Employees may also be eligible for annual and long-term incentives. In addition, Wizards of the Coast provides a variety of benefits to employees. Here’s a look at what your benefits package may include: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Paid Vacation Time & Holidays, Generous 401(k) match, Paid Parental Leave, Volunteer Program, Employee Giving & Matching Gifts Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, Product Discounts, and more.

Wizards is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment. We are committed to making all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, marital status, or any other legally protected status.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and the requirements for satisfactory performance in this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of the duties, responsibilities, or requirements of the position.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. If you are selected to move forward in our application process and need to request an accommodation, please let your recruiter or coordinator know.