Animation Systems Programmer
Job description
About the role
Animation Systems Programmer
Epic Games invites applications for the specialized role of Animation Systems Programmer within our Special Projects organization. This position represents a significant opportunity to contribute to high-profile initiatives that define the future of interactive real-time experiences. You will join a team dedicated to technological advancement and creative excellence.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the architecture, implementation, and maintenance of core animation systems. These systems serve as the foundational framework used across multiple flagship projects. Your work will ensure the integrity, performance, and scalability of these critical components. You will be expected to drive innovation and establish new standards for character movement and behavior.
This role requires close collaboration with a diverse group of professionals. You will work alongside engineers, animators, technical animators, product designers, and external technology partners. Effective communication is essential to align technical constraints with creative objectives. The position demands a balance between deep technical execution and a broad understanding of project goals.
What You'll Do
You will lead the architectural decisions for animation frameworks that power our most ambitious projects. This involves designing robust systems capable of handling complex character rigs and intricate state machine logic. A primary focus will be on optimizing runtime performance to ensure efficiency and responsiveness.
A key responsibility is the evaluation and integration of emerging technologies. You will assess how machine learning techniques can enhance procedural animation workflows. This includes researching and prototyping new methods to improve animation quality and automation.
You will serve as a vital link between engineering and creative departments. This involves translating artistic requirements into technical specifications and vice versa. You will partner with artists to refine tools and pipelines, guaranteeing visual fidelity meets Epic's exacting standards. The implementation of low-level modules for rigging and inverse kinematics will be a core technical challenge.
You will also work in concert with design leads to ensure technical execution aligns with creative vision. Your contributions will be measured by your ability to ship high-quality features on schedule. Adherence to coding standards, documentation, and best practices is a non-negotiable requirement for success in this role.
What We Offer
Epic Games provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. The company covers 100 percent of premiums for medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents. Additional benefits include long-term disability coverage and life insurance.
This role is based in Larkspur, California, and is a full-time position. The compensation package for this role ranges from $165,000 to $200,000 USD annually.
Requirements
To excel in this position, you must possess extensive experience developing applications with C++. A superior understanding of linear algebra and its application within software systems is mandatory. You are required to have a proven history working with rigging systems and animation state machine logic.
Proficiency in multi-threaded programming is essential for managing tasks related to graphics, audio, and memory handling. A strong foundation in application-level programming for user-facing tools and script compilers is necessary. An artistic eye for quality animation, timing, and character performance is crucial. You must communicate effectively and collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams. Creative problem-solving skills are required to devise solutions that go beyond conventional approaches.
Prior knowledge of machine learning applications in interactive entertainment is considered a valuable asset. Proficiency with the tools of the trade, including C++, Unreal Engine, and related animation technologies, is expected.
We encourage interested candidates to confirm specific details and requirements on the official application page before proceeding.
About the company
Epic Games, Inc. is an American video game and software developer and publisher based in Cary, North Carolina. The company was founded by Tim Sweeney as Potomac Computer Systems in 1991, originally located in his parents' house in Potomac, Maryland.