Associate Animator: Gameplay

At Rockstar Games, we create world-class entertainment experiences. 

Become part of a team working on some of the most rewarding, large-scale creative projects to be found in any entertainment medium - all within an inclusive, highly-motivated environment where you can learn and collaborate with some of the most talented people in the industry. 

Rockstar is on the lookout for talented Associate Animator who possess a passion for in-game animation.

This is a full-time, in-office position based out of Rockstar’s unique game development studio in Oakville, ON. 

WHAT WE DO

• We create open world gameplay mechanics that are used to make immersive experiences. 
• We work as a global animation team to collaborate on player experiences. 
• We use our onsite motion capture facilities to prototype new systems, directing talent and fine-tuning the results with code and design. 
• We participate in multi-disciplined gameplay reviews, ensuring animation data is responsive and implemented with a strong consideration of technical and gameplay constraints. 
• Successful applicants would be working in a dedicated feature such as locomotion, traversal, combat, weapons, creatures or vehicles. Each of our teams work with dedicated pipelines and tools to create engaging open world mechanics.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take direction from the Animation Lead to create stunning, fluid and responsive animations that demonstrate realistic weight and movement. 
• Integrate animations into the game using established pipelines. 
• Troubleshoot and debug animation systems to make improvements. 
• Work closely with other departments to create core mechanics and immersive experiences. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Art/Animation or equivalent experience. 
• Gameplay-focused demo reel demonstrating experience working with Gameplay systems.

SKILLS

• An understanding of a major animation package (eg Maya, Motionbuilder, etc). 
• Positive, solution-oriented individual, with a deep-rooted interest in video games, and game development. 
• Ability to animate the human figure to create realistic character animations. 
• Understanding of development issues in getting animations into a game. 
• Ability to bring innovation and resolution to technical problems and challenges throughout production. 
• Strong ability to follow guidelines and incorporate feedback. 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and ability to collaborate with other teams. 

PLUSES

Please note that these are desirable skills and are not required to apply for the position.

• Practical knowledge of scripting or programming languages (Python, C# / C++, etc.). 
• Practical experience using parametric blend spaces, motion trees or state machines. 
• Knowledge of commercial game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine. 
• Experience using MotionBuilder and working with motion capture data. 

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply with a resume and cover letter demonstrating how you meet the skills above. If we would like to move forward with your application, a Rockstar recruiter will reach out to you to explain next steps and guide you through the process.

Rockstar is committed to creating a work environment that promotes equal opportunity, dignity and respect.  In line with this commitment, Rockstar will provide accommodations to job applicants with disabilities (or on the basis of any other protected ground under human rights legislation) during the recruitment process, as well as to any Rockstar employees in order for them to perform the essential functions of their roles.  Rockstar will comply with its obligations under the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and will provide accommodations as long as such accommodations do not pose an undue hardship on Rockstar.  If you need more information about Rockstar’s accommodation policies or process, or need to request an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.

If you’ve got the right skills for the job, we want to hear from you. We encourage applications from all suitable candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, or any other protected category.