Expert Technical Animator

Elsewhere Entertainment is developing an exciting new IP and is part of Activision, a leading developer, publisher, and distributor of interactive entertainment with franchises such as Call of Duty®, Crash Bandicoot™, Tony Hawk’s™ Pro Skater™, and Guitar Hero®. The company focuses on innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

• Experience in a Technical Animator, Technical Artist, Character TD, or similar role, with a strong focus on rigging systems for games or high-end CG production
• Deep understanding of weight painting workflows and skinning algorithms to support high-quality deformations
• Ability to balance visual fidelity with real-time performance requirements, including profiling and optimizing rigs in engine
• Strong understanding of animation principles and their application in keyframe and procedural animation
• Proficiency in Python and MEL for tool development and pipeline scripting
• In-depth understanding of character anatomy and the ability to apply that knowledge across a variety of asset types

Nice to have:

• Experience with C++, C#, or other programming languages
• Familiarity with Rez, PyPI packaging, or studio tool deployment workflows

• Build and maintain animator-friendly control rigs for 3D characters, creatures, and props using the in-house Maya rigging pipeline
• Develop and maintain rigging tools, scripts, and pipeline integrations (Python, MEL) to streamline rig setup and automate repetitive tasks
• Apply advanced techniques such as data-driven or scan-based rig generation and machine learning–assisted blend shapes where appropriate
• Prepare and export rigged assets from Maya into the game engine, ensuring compatibility with in-house import pipelines and automated build systems
• Document tools, workflows, and processes in clear, accessible language
• Proactively identify and implement solutions to technical challenges in animation and character systems
• Lead rig reviews, mentor other riggers, and help resolve complex deformation or engine-related issues
• Maintain and evolve the rigging framework, including templates, conventions, validation processes, and performance guidelines