Sr. Technical Animator at Blind Squirrel Games – Manizales, Caldas

Blind Squirrel Games (BSG) is a proud, independent studio that joins forces with developers and publishers seeking an innovative partner in creating quality games. At BSG, people are our purpose, so we prioritize an inquisitive, proactive, and collaborative work environment for all our squirrels. We currently have studio locations in Irvine, California; Austin, Texas; Auckland, New Zealand; and Manizales, Colombia.

Skills and experience are highly valued at BSG, but we recognize that talent is a product of hard-work, resilience, and a growth-mindset. We champion individuals who have demonstrated they have the grit necessary to overcome challenges and subscribe to the notion that inclusion breeds synergy and innovation. To us, diversity isn't a metric—it's a must!

This is a temporary, full-time role based in Manizales, Colombia, with a preference for working in-office.

Senior Technical Animators at BSG…

• You have a deep understanding of the Technical Animation pipeline, complemented by a refined skillset, honed through experience on numerous AAA titles. You're recognized as a dependable developer with the insight to know when to seek feedback. You welcome challenges, setting high standards for yourself and delivering high-quality work consistently.
  
• While your influence is vital to the department's success and you provide mentorship to junior developers, creating technical animation assets and solutions remains your core focus. You excel in independent work but also value collaboration through teamwork.
  

Role and Responsibilities

• Supported by the Art Director and Art Leads, the Senior Technical Animator will lead the implementation of innovative animation systems and tools that ensure dynamic gameplay and environments, collaborating closely with technical artists and cross-functional teams.
  
• As a Senior Technical Animator at BSG, you will play a pivotal role in the project by designing and implementing advanced animation behavior tools and techniques, and providing leadership in cross-functional initiatives including cinematics, asset integration, and performance optimization.
  
• The ideal candidate for this role has extensive experience in animation pipelines and tools such as Maya, 3DS Max, and MotionBuilder, with a strong proficiency in scripting languages like LUA, Python, or JavaScript to streamline workflows and automate complex processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of animation behavior tools and techniques to elevate gameplay experiences.
• Develop and optimize complex movement systems that align with project requirements and enhance player interactions.
• Collaborate closely with technical art leadership to drive initiatives in cinematics, asset integration, and performance optimization.
• Ensure seamless integration of assets into the game environment while maintaining high technical standards and adhering to project specifications.
• Utilize advanced scripting skills in languages such as LUA, Python, and JavaScript to automate processes and optimize asset workflows.
• Mentor and guide junior technical animators, providing feedback and support to foster their growth and development.
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation and communicate updates, issues, and solutions effectively to team members and stakeholders.
• Actively participate in cross-disciplinary meetings, contributing expertise on technical challenges and solutions, and facilitating collaborative problem-solving.
• Take ownership of assigned tasks and projects, ensuring deadlines are met and deliverables exceed expectations.
• Continuously research and implement best practices in animation technology and tools to improve efficiency and quality of animation production.
  

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• 4+ years of industry experience in game development specializing in technical animation.
• At least two shipped titles as Technical Animator.
• Portfolio demonstrating ability to design and implement technical animation assets and solutions.

Preferred Skills

• Extensive experience with animation pipelines and source content creation tools such as Maya, 3DS Max, and MotionBuilder.
• Advanced proficiency in scripting languages such as LUA, Python, or JavaScript, with a demonstrated ability to develop complex tools and automation scripts.
• In-depth knowledge of modern animation behavior tools, techniques, and best practices.
• Strong leadership skills with experience in guiding and mentoring team members.
• Expertise in game design principles and cross-functional game development processes.
• Proven track record of success working with contemporary game engines (Unreal Engine 4/5, Unity, CryEngine3+, etc.) and associated tools and plugins.
• Passion for video games and game development, with a commitment to innovation and excellence in animation and technical design.

Blind Squirrel Entertainment, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Eligibility to participate in benefits and perks may vary depending on position term and location.

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