Naughty Dog · 2 months ago
Senior Gameplay Animator (IGC/ Gameplay)
United States, Santa Monica, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$139K/yr - $174K/yr
5+ years expNaughty Dog is a renowned game development studio known for its critically acclaimed titles. They are seeking an experienced Gameplay Animator to create high-quality animation content, collaborate with various teams, and mentor junior members while adhering to the studio's innovative standards.
GamingVideo GamesWeb Development
Responsibilities
Create high-quality animation content in Maya and ensure proper implementation in our game engine
Serve as a positive role model through exemplary demeanor, ability, proactivity, communication, and productivity
Collaborate with the Animation, Design, and Engineering teams to create new exciting, mind-blowing systemic animations
Take ownership of challenging projects and provide innovative solutions, including mentoring team members and creating documentation
Direct and participate in motion capture shoots
Learn and master Naughty Dog’s unique gameplay systems
Work with game systems, adhering to efficient and effective practices
Utilize engine debug tools to identify and resolve gameplay issues in collaboration with designers and programmers
Partner with animation leadership to define and uphold the style and quality bar for in-game animations
Provide constructive feedback to improve internal technologies and artistic workflows
Take on additional responsibilities as needed
Qualification
Required
Ability to work hybrid from our Santa Monica, CA studio is required
Minimum of 1 shipped AAA game as a Senior Gameplay Animator (or equivalent)
Minimum of 5 years of experience in the video game industry
Expertise in systemic gameplay animation
Mastery of both motion capture and keyframe character animation as showcased by your strong animation reel
General technical knowledge of animation technologies, including state machines, blend trees, and motion matching
Passion for gaming and a deep understanding of game design principles and player experience
Ability to provide clear and constructive feedback to peers
Proven experience planning, setting up, and directing motion capture shoots independently and efficiently
Must be comfortable using a script editor
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt quickly to challenges
Highly motivated, proactive, and solution-oriented, with a 'can-do' attitude
A natural team player who fosters collaboration and inspires others across departments
Strong communication skills, ensuring clear and proactive interaction with animation and other teams
Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage shifting priorities, and keep stakeholders informed
Proactive in taking ownership of assignments and identifying new opportunities to support the team and company goals
Proficient with Maya/MotionBuilder animation tools, including layers, time/trax editor, and mocap tools
Preferred
Experience developing animation tools is a plus
Character rigging experience is a plus
Experience setting up in-game physics assets is a plus
Benefits
Annual bonus
Other incentive plans
Company
Naughty Dog
Naughty Dog, a video game developer that produces games on PlayStation systems, including the Crash Bandicoot and Jak and Daxter franchises.
201-500 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Naughty Dog has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (3)
2024 (4)
2023 (4)
2022 (2)
2021 (2)
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
unknown2001-01-22Acquired
Leadership Team
Rafael Grassetti
Art Director
Recent News
2026-01-06
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2025-12-16
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