Principal Animation Programmer - Studio Elevation (Remote within UK)

nDreams; Remote; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading VR studio is seeking a Principal Animation Programmer to lead the development of innovative animation systems crucial for immersive VR experiences. In this role, you will guide teams in creating scalable and performant pipelines. The ideal candidate will have expert-level skills in C++ and extensive experience with Unreal Engine. This position offers a competitive salary and is fully remote within the UK, providing the chance to shape the future of animation technology in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Fully remote work

Qualifications

• 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.

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.
• Mentor and support programmers across all levels, fostering growth and excellence.

Skills

C++ programming skills

Animation principles understanding

Unreal Engine experience

VR development

Performance optimization

Job 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