Zynga - Principal Technical Animator

3D Animator is needed in London, United Kingdom.

Client: Zynga

Location: London, United Kingdom

Contract: Full-time, Full-time

Job Description

Zynga is a global leader in interactive entertainment, aiming to connect the world through games. We are seeking a Senior/Principal Technical Animator to join our team in supporting Star Wars: Hunters and an unannounced project. This role involves working alongside the Animation Team to bring characters to life. The position embraces a hybrid work model, requiring 2 days per week in the London office and the remainder at home.

Requirements

What You’ll Do:

• Creating and maintaining the rigging and technical animation pipeline for projects.
• Collaborating with the Animation Team to develop original characters and seasonal cosmetics.
• Reporting to the Lead Animator and Art Directors.

What You Bring:

• Expert knowledge of the skeletal pipeline, rigging to exporting finalized characters, and mobile limitations.
• Understanding of cloth simulation and dynamics in both Engine and 3D software.
• Expertise in animation systems in Unreal Engine; debugging, modifying, and creating them from scratch.
• Knowledge of motion capture processes for different characters.
• Expert knowledge of retargeting between non-matching skeletons.
• Proficiency in 3D software scripting languages (e.g., MEL, Python, Max Script).
• Foundational rigging knowledge including bones, IK, Splines, Blend Shapes, and setting up animation blueprints in Unreal.
• Advanced knowledge of major third-party rigging systems (e.g., Advanced Skeleton, Rapid Rig, mGear).
• Experience in scalable animation systems for mobile devices.
• Ownership of the pipeline, with good documentation and communication skills.

Bonus Points:

• Knowledge of Facial Rigging processes and implementation solutions.
• Understanding of procedural animation systems.
• Experience in technical art areas such as Shaders, Lighting Tech, and VFX.
• Knowledge of mechanical systems and vehicle rigging.

What We Offer You

• Competitive salary and discretionary annual bonus scheme.
• 26 days of holiday, plus bank holidays & 2 paid personal days.
• 6 months fully paid maternity/adoption leave; 16 weeks fully paid paternity leave.
• Pension plan with double matching employer contribution.
• Private medical & dental insurance and healthcare cash plan.
• Life insurance, personal accident insurance, and income protection.
• Mental health and neurodiversity support programs.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (eligibility criteria applies).
• Fitness reimbursement plan worth £600 per annum.
• Flexible working hours and social events.
• Annual rail season ticket advance and cycle to work scheme.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Zynga is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating diversity within the organization. Employment is based on ability, qualifications, and work ethic. We provide support and accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure full participation in the job application process.

Recruitment Process Information

Please note, Zynga does not conduct interviews or make job offers through third-party messaging applications. Be cautious of potential scams or phishing attempts. Official recruitment communications will only occur via Zynga email addresses.