Lead Gameplay Animation Programmer

TN United Kingdom; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading game development company is seeking a Lead Gameplay Animation Programmer to drive the delivery of high fidelity animated characters in a large-scale interactive universe. The role involves overseeing code design, mentoring team members, and collaborating closely with animators. Ideal candidates should have a passion for gaming, a programming background in animation, and proficiency in 3D math and animation techniques.

Qualifications

• Programming background in animation with managerial duties.
• Proficiency in 3D math and animation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design and implementation of reliable, scalable code.
• Provide mentorship and career progression support for programmers.
• Collaborate with animators on asset pipeline and procedural solutions.

Skills

3D math

3D animation

procedural solutions

Job description

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Client:

Cloud Imperium Games Limited

Location:

Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

9c4d30039ad2

Job Views:

3

Posted:

14.05.2025

Expiry Date:

28.06.2025

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Job Description:

In our bespoke, ground-breaking, multi-threaded engine the Lead Gameplay Animation Programmer is instrumental in driving the team to deliver high fidelity animated characters, vehicles, and environments in a large-scale interactive universe.

Whether it is working on customisable run-time rigged faces using our DNA system, researching seamless transitions via motion matching of large amounts of motion captured data or leveraging physicalized reactions together with animation driven ragdolls; the goal is always to be as ambitious as possible with focus on up-to-date technology, scalability for our massive scope and attention to every detail.

Founded in 2012, Cloud Imperium Games creates cutting-edge videogames that defy expectations. We're currently developing Star Citizen, a record-breaking multiplayer online space sim, and Squadron 42, a cinematic single-player adventure set in the same universe. Join us as we break boundaries and make videogame history.

For more information about life at Cloud Imperium Games, check this out - https://youtu.be/cXjp7SRBpIA

What do our Lead Gameplay Animation Programmers do?

Although the Lead Gameplay Animation Programmer role is quite varied, the responsibilities boil down to five main areas:

Overseeing the design and implementation well-engineered, reliable, scalable and robust code.

Document and peer review technical designs across several multi-disciplinary teams.

Provide mentorship, day-to-day management and career progression support for other animation programmers.

Working closely with animators to assist with asset pipeline, provide access to procedural solutions, handle complex transition flows and ensure end result achieves expected fidelity.

Driving engineering principles and practices for your team, pushing boundaries and promoting new innovative ways of working.

What do we look for?

A true passion for making games is a must with a keen interest in animation, and we would also like it if you:

A programming background in animation, with a history of managerial duties.

Proficiency in 3D math and 3D animation, including procedural solutions, run-time rigging, layer blending and optimization.

Work well in a co-located yet collaborative team environment.

Be friendly and approachable for all team members, all roles and levels.

Can explain and present technical solutions to all disciplines.

At Cloud Imperium Games we are looking for several Animation Programmers with various levels of experience - from junior all the way to senior, and beyond! Therefore, if our Animation team sounds like your perfect fit, please apply immediately!

Diversity Statement

CIG is a global company, staunchly committed to cultivating a culture and workplace that celebrates all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives. Together, we are creating a space where authentic recognition, appreciation, and understanding of the importance of diversity is fostered by everyone. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strive to build a team that represents all walks of life, and we want every employee to bring all the things that make them unique to the work environment. The universe is as vast and varied as the people in it, and it's our differences that make it special.

Fraud Statement

We are aware of people receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from CIG. These types of fraud can be carried out through false websites, fake email addresses claiming to be from our company, or social media. We do not ask for your personal info like bank account numbers, identification numbers, etc through social media or chat-based apps, nor do we request or send money for the purchase of business equipment.

If you suspect fraud, please report it to your local authorities, as well as reaching out to us at info[@]cloudimperiumgames.com with any information you may have.