ZeniMax Online Studios is looking for a Lead Animation Software Engineer to develop a robust in-game animation system in our new engine for the studio’s next AAA project. In this position you will work side-by-side with Technical Artists, Animators, and Gameplay Engineers. You will own the animation pipeline from artist workstation all the way to fluid and responsive in-game characters.

The preferred location for this role is Hunt Valley, MD, Austin, TX, Madison, WI, San Diego, CA, or Seattle, WA. Will consider remote.

Responsibilities

Work with the animation systems team to help architect animation technology
Integration of new technologies into the engine and pipeline
Work with gameplay and provide an interface for them to interact with animation
Work with the Tools team to create animation tools and pipelines
Develop core animation components
Mentor other engineering team members

Qualifications

7+ years game industry software development experience
Expert level knowledge of real-time animation systems
Extensive experience with one or more real-time animation middleware (e.g.: Havok Animation, Granny, Morpheme) or equivalent custom/in-house solutions
Experience developing or working with animation blend graphs, real-time IK, animation compression, and/or advanced animation memory management (streaming)
Self-motivated and energetic team player with a very strong work ethic and cooperative attitude
Enjoys working daily with animators and technical artists to help craft solutions to complex problems
Prior experience acting as an owner of animation systems
Excellent 3D math skills
Robust programming skills/experience in C++
Ability to write clear, maintainable, portable code
Strong technical knowledge of Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and PC

Preferred Skills

Experience with animation systems in network games
Generalist experience or prior experience in other core areas of game development, such as UI or gameplay programming
Degree in Computer Science or equivalent work experience

Lead Animation Engineer