Job Description

Job Title:

Expert Technical Animator

Requisition ID:

R026851

Expert Rigging Artist / Technical Animator

Elsewhere Entertainment is looking for an Expert Rigging Artist / Technical Animator to support the development of an exciting new IP.

You’ll join a collaborative team dedicated to creating complex, high-quality, and believable content. In this role, you’ll contribute to a studio culture grounded in inclusivity, mutual respect (for one another and our players), thoughtfulness, empathy, professionalism, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• 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 (e.g., data-driven or scan-based rig generation, 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

Required qualifications
• 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

Not sure you meet every qualification? We encourage you to apply. Research shows that women and people from underrepresented groups are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet all the listed criteria—even when they have the skills to succeed. If this role excites you and your experience aligns with the responsibilities above, we’d love to hear from you.

Our World

At Activision, we create globally recognized games and entertainment experiences. Our mission is to deliver engaging gameplay experiences that bring people together around the world. Our portfolio includes franchises such as Call of Duty®, Crash Bandicoot™, Tony Hawk’s™ Pro Skater™, and Guitar Hero®.

As a leading developer, publisher, and distributor of interactive entertainment, we focus on innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Our success is driven by talented teams with a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. We are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

We’re excited about what’s ahead and the opportunity to keep evolving our games and technology. If you’re ready to grow your career and help shape memorable player experiences, we’d love to connect.

#elsewhere