Lead Camera Designer

Summary

Join Crystal Dynamics and become our Lead Gameplay Camera Designer, playing a pivotal role in shaping the visual and narrative journey of our players. You will design, implement, and refine gameplay cameras, custom level camera systems, and cinematic transitions, collaborating with a cross-disciplinary team. This role requires experience leading camera design initiatives, a strong portfolio showcasing contributions to gameplay camera design, and a deep understanding of cinematography concepts. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, professional development reimbursement, and flexible hybrid work opportunities. Shape the future of award-winning franchises like Tomb Raider and Perfect Dark!

Requirements

• Experience in leading camera design initiatives and mentoring junior designers, demonstrating strong leadership capabilities and a collaborative spirit
• Significant professional experience as a Gameplay Camera Designer, with a strong portfolio or clips showcasing contributions to gameplay camera design, particularly in gameplay and cinematic contexts
• A deep understanding of cinematography concepts and their application within game development, with proven ability in camera placement and interactive scene composition
• Proficiency in commercial and/or proprietary game engines, with hands-on experience in implementing camera systems within these environments
• Skill in at least one core animation tool (preferably Maya), demonstrating an understanding of camera animation techniques

Responsibilities

• Strategically design and place gameplay cameras to enhance narrative impact while ensuring interactivity and player immersion
• Develop and fine-tune custom level cameras and cinematic transitions, creating a smooth and engaging player journey through our game's narrative
• Collaborate with Engineers, Animators, and Designers to create and refine tools and camera solutions that elevate the player experience and contribute to the game's dynamic worlds
• Work closely with System Designers to synchronize gameplay systems with their visual representation on screen, ensuring a cohesive player experience
• Conceptualize, present, and execute camera design ideas within a project schedule, actively engaging in technical and design problem-solving processes
• Coordinate with representatives from various departments to address design challenges, enhance narrative storytelling, eliminate production bottlenecks, and clearly communicate design requirements
• Proactively evaluate, initiate, and implement new processes, tools, and features related to camera design that are specific to the game title or franchise

Preferred Qualifications

• Successfully shipped a 3rd person action-adventure title, demonstrating a keen eye for camera design that enhances gameplay and narrative
• Professional experience with Unreal Engine, showcasing a strong command of its camera systems and design capabilities
• Prior experience in animating cameras within Maya, highlighting technical proficiency and creative application in past projects
• A background in narrative design or storytelling, adding depth and context to camera design decisions

Benefits

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