Crystal Dynamics is hiring a
Animation Lead, Remote - United States, Canada

Summary

Crystal Dynamics is seeking a Lead Animator to define the animation vision for upcoming high-fidelity action-adventure titles. The role involves leading a team, delivering engaging animations, and managing pipelines. Requires experience in a leadership role within animation, expertise in animation trees, motion capture, Maya, and real-time game engines/editors.

Requirements

• Experience in a leadership role within animation (Lead or Principal Animator) in the game development industry, particularly for high-fidelity action-adventure games
• In-depth understanding of gameplay systems, especially in 3rd person perspectives, including weapon, traversal, melee, and ranged combat animations
• Expertise in animation trees, animation blending, and node-based animation editors
• Proficiency in Motion Capture, Motion Matching, Maya, and real-time game engines/editors
• A collaborative mindset, particularly in working with design and engineering teams

Responsibilities

• Lead the animation vision in collaboration with the Creative Director and Art Director, ensuring the game's visual and interactive identity is maintained
• Work in close partnership with Department Leads, Animators, and Designers to assess and meet the game's animation requirements
• Develop a team of skilled animators, directing the creation of high-fidelity game animations and systems
• Deliver engaging combat and traversal animations in collaboration with combat designers and engineers
• Set and manage goals, aligning deliverables with project milestones and deadlines
• Conduct and direct motion capture shoots for both gameplay and cinematic performances as needed
• Manage, direct, and review co-developers and external vendors in different countries and time zones
• Run full pipelines (both internal and external), from narrative / storyboard to fully implemented in-game shippable content
• Promote team growth through regular individual meetings, performance reviews, and targeted training
• Foster a positive, collaborative team environment that values open communication and constructive feedback
• Streamline animation processes to enhance team productivity throughout the game development cycle
• Document and manage animation tasks and processes
• Guide animators across various styles, ensuring a consistent animation approach throughout the project

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cinematic tools in Unreal Engine
• Demonstrated leadership abilities with a track record of nurturing and developing animation talent

Benefits

• Competitive regional salary
• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• Professional development reimbursement
• Flexible hybrid on-site/off-site work opportunities
• 12 company paid holidays, plus additional paid days in December when the studio is closed for holiday break
• The ability to accrue additional paid time-off