Zynga - Lead Animator – New Midcore Game Team

3D Animator is needed in San Francisco, United States.

Client: Zynga

Location: San Francisco, CA

Contract: Full-time, Full-time, Full-time

Job Description

Zynga is seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Lead Animator to join a dynamic, growing team. As a lead animator, you will inspire a team of talented animators and lead animation quality on a game. You will empower, support, and guide others to excellence, acting as a role model for organizational, technical, and creative skills while having an impact on the Zynga art community. You will work closely with the Creative Director, Art Director, Game Designers, and other key players to create outstanding games.

Responsibilities

• Produce high quality animations with both motion captured and hand-keyed frames.
• Assist in building strong animation foundations and uphold those standards.
• Lead a small animation team with excellent planning and task scheduling to deliver animations to the required quality, specification, and time.
• Coach and mentor team members both in North America and Spain to develop professional skills, including soft skills.
• Support the Outsource pipeline with feedback and planning assistance.
• Demonstrate a high understanding of how animation supports gameplay and narrative.
• Demonstrate proficiency in 3D animation software (e.g., Maya).
• Plan, deliver, document, and adjust/improve complex animation motion graphs to produce fluid in-game animation.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in games, with 2-3+ years in a Lead or Manager position.
• Proficient people management skills and the ability to have crucial conversations with staff.
• Knowledge of all stages of game development on multiple projects.
• Expert level communication and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to provide and receive constructive feedback.
• Proven experience in planning and managing delivery within the discipline.
• Experience leading and mentoring a team to produce quality results.
• Experience with game engines, specifically Unity.
• Significant software proficiency in Maya, Unity, Photoshop, Perforce, and Git.
• Experience in Battle Royale, MOBA, or Shooter genres is a plus.
• A strong showreel showcasing your work.
• A love of games.

Benefits

• Competitive salary, bonus plan, and ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan).
• 401K Company Match Contribution (US) and RRSP/DPSP company match contribution (Canada).
• Comprehensive health coverage including dental, disability, critical illness, EAP, and life insurance (both US and Canada).
• Virtual mental health and neurodiversity support programs.
• Global Fitness reimbursement program and Global Wellbeing Program.
• Access to certified financial planners for financial wellness.
• Discretionary Time Off policy for many employees.
• Family planning support and subsidized back-up childcare.
• Generous paid leaves including parental and compassionate leaves.
• Cultural events and employee engagement activities (Zynga happy hours and frequent employee events).
• Flexible working hours for many teams.
• A culture of diversity and inclusion, including employee resource groups.
• Opportunity to work with talented individuals and impact millions of daily players.

Additional Information

The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be between $110,000 and $130,000 per year. Base pay offered is based on market location and may vary depending on factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Total compensation may also include a bonus and/or equity awards.