Principal Animation Programmer

We are seeking an accomplished Principal Animation Programmer to lead the development of cutting-edge animation systems for immersive VR experiences. This senior technical role involves shaping the future of animation technology, driving innovation, and mentoring teams. You will architect and evolve animation systems and tools, ensuring pipelines are scalable, performant, and aligned with creative vision, influencing the direction of animation technology at a studio known for pushing VR boundaries.

Must Have

• Lead the design and evolution of core animation systems for VR gameplay
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams for seamless animation integration
• Drive innovation in procedural animation, IK systems, and runtime rigging
• Set technical direction and long-term strategy for animation technology
• Solve complex animation challenges and guide architectural decisions
• Champion code quality, maintainability, and robust documentation
• Mentor and support programmers across all levels
• Partner with QA and production to ensure animation features meet quality and delivery goals
• Evaluate and introduce new tools, techniques, and middleware to enhance workflows
• Expert-level C++ programming skills and deep experience with animation systems in game engines
• Strong understanding of animation principles and real-time implementation
• Extensive experience with Unreal Engine, including Animation Blueprints and Control Rig
• Proven track record in VR development and performance optimization
• Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills

Good to Have

• Experience with procedural or physics-based animation systems
• Knowledge of motion matching or machine learning in animation
• Shipped multiple commercial games in a technical leadership role
• Familiarity with animation middleware (e.g., Havok, HumanIK)

Perks & Benefits

• Flexible hours
• Duvet days
• Birthday off
• Dedicated personal development time and support
• Regular socials
• Excellent holiday offering
• Pension scheme
• Health insurance
• Life cover

Description

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Principal Animation Programmer to lead the development of cutting-edge animation systems that define the feel and fidelity of our immersive VR experiences. In this senior-most technical role, you will shape the future of animation technology across our projects, driving innovation and mentoring teams to deliver world-class results.

You’ll architect and evolve animation systems and tools in close collaboration with animators, designers, and gameplay engineers. Your leadership will ensure that our animation pipelines are scalable, performant, and aligned with the creative vision of our games. This is a rare opportunity to influence the direction of animation technology at a studio known for pushing the boundaries of VR.

The rundown:

• 12-month fixed term contract
• Full time (37.5 hours per week)
• Fully remote within the UK
• Salary is competitive and dependent on experience

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the design and evolution of core animation systems for VR gameplay
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of animation with gameplay and narrative
• Drive innovation in procedural animation, IK systems, and runtime rigging
• Set technical direction and long-term strategy for animation technology
• Solve complex animation challenges and guide architectural decisions
• Champion code quality, maintainability, and robust documentation
• Mentor and support programmers across all levels, fostering growth and excellence
• Partner with QA and production to ensure animation features meet quality and delivery goals
• Evaluate and introduce new tools, techniques, and middleware to enhance workflows

Requirements

The skills you’ll need:

• Expert-level C++ programming skills and deep experience with animation systems in game engines
• Strong understanding of animation principles and real-time implementation
• Extensive experience with Unreal Engine, including Animation Blueprints and Control Rig
• Proven track record in VR development and performance optimization
• Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.

The nice to haves:

• Experience with procedural or physics-based animation systems
• Knowledge of motion matching or machine learning in animation
• Shipped multiple commercial games in a technical leadership role
• Familiarity with animation middleware (e.g., Havok, HumanIK)