3D Gameplay Animator

Company Description:
Arcata Interactive is a game development studio specializing in end-to-end Unreal Engine production, from early concept and prototyping through launch and live support. The team combines AAA studio backgrounds with the flexibility and creativity of an indie environment. We're looking for a talented 3D Generalist to be a foundational member of our team, helping bring our exciting indie titles to life.
In this role, you will be architecting the "feel" of our games. From explosive combat mechanics to subtle environmental interactions, your work will serve as the heartbeat of our brand. As an early member of the team, you will have a high degree of creative ownership, influencing everything from technical workflows to the final cinematic polish of our trailers.
Responsibilities
Animate & Iterate: Design, prototype, and polish 3D character & creature animations focusing on combat, traversal, and interactive world events.
Technical Integration: Implement and Test animations within UE5 using Montage systems to ensure seamless transitions and responsive gameplay.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Designers and Engineers to bridge the gap between "looking good" and "feeling right," ensuring animations support gameplay mechanics and frame-data requirements.
Visual Storytelling: Beyond gameplay, contribute to the studio’s identity by crafting high-impact cinematic sequences and key-pose compositions for marketing and trailers.
System Ownership: Identify and resolve animation-related bugs, optimize performance, and document workflows to build a scalable foundation for future growth.
Requirements
1-3+ years in professional game development with at least one shipped title (PC or Console).
Proven experience with 3D character/creature/vehicle modeling, rigging and skinning.
Expert-level proficiency in Autodesk Maya and a deep understanding of UE4/UE5 animation pipelines (Control Rig experience is a plus).
A portfolio demonstrating mastery of weight, timing, and impact—specifically within action-oriented gameplay.
Proven ability to use engine debug tools to troubleshoot sync issues, popping, or blending errors.
Strong verbal and written skills; the ability to give and receive "ego-less" feedback in a collaborative indie environment.
A passion for staying current with industry trends (e.g., Motion Matching, Procedural Animation) and a desire to mentor others.
Bonus Points
Experience creating VFX or technical art to support animation (e.g., cloth/hair physics).
A love for stylized, high-energy aesthetics.

Work arrangement
No