Contract Game Animator

Role overview A contract Game Animator position on a remote, full-time project basis with an indie multimedia studio known for a hit horror game franchise. The animator will collaborate with art, design, and engineering teams to produce polished, expressive 3D animations that bring characters, creatures, and gameplay mechanics to life. The work centers on crafting animation that feels both visually compelling and responsive in players' hands.

Responsibilities - Collaborate with a team of animators to develop high-quality in-game animations and cinematics - Work from storyboards when provided to translate direction into finished animation - Craft strong poses and compelling visual frames that serve character and gameplay needs - Present work to the team, gather input, and incorporate feedback from leads and teammates - Own deliverables by managing goals within milestones and deadlines while maintaining consistent style - Refine animation processes throughout production to improve team productivity - Animate a diverse range of creatures and characters, including bipedal and quadrupedal designs that support unique gameplay moments

Requirements - 5+ years of experience animating in Autodesk Maya - Track record of consistently high-quality animation that matches project style and quality bar - Strong understanding of body mechanics, performance, and weight - Experience with creature animation across bipedal and quadrupedal rigs - Self-motivated with strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment - Creative problem-solving skills and willingness to think beyond established solutions

Nice to have - Experience implementing animation directly into a game engine - Familiarity with blend trees and node-based animation editors in commercial or proprietary engines

Benefits and work setup - Remote-eligible U.S.-based project hire - Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible full-time project hires - Paid time off, sick time, and holidays - Applicants must submit a resume plus a digital portfolio or reel (website, blog, or online album); an animation test may be required