Job description
We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Principal Animation Programmer to lead the development of cutting-edge animation systems that define the feel and fidelity of our immersive VR experiences. In this senior-most technical role, you will shape the future of animation technology across our projects, driving innovation and mentoring teams to deliver world-class results.
You’ll architect and evolve animation systems and tools in close collaboration with animators, designers, and gameplay engineers. Your leadership will ensure that our animation pipelines are scalable, performant, and aligned with the creative vision of our games. This is a rare opportunity to influence the direction of animation technology at a studio known for pushing the boundaries of VR.
The rundown:
12-month fixed term contract
Full time (37.5 hours per week)
Fully remote within the UK
Salary is competitive and dependent on experience
Key responsibilities:
Lead the design and evolution of core animation systems for VR gameplay
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of animation with gameplay and narrative
Drive innovation in procedural animation, IK systems, and runtime rigging
Set technical direction and long-term strategy for animation technology
Solve complex animation challenges and guide architectural decisions
Champion code quality, maintainability, and robust documentation
Mentor and support programmers across all levels, fostering growth and excellence
Partner with QA and production to ensure animation features meet quality and delivery goals
Evaluate and introduce new tools, techniques, and middleware to enhance workflows
The skills you’ll need:
Expert-level C++ programming skills and deep experience with animation systems in game engines
Strong understanding of animation principles and real-time implementation
Extensive experience with Unreal Engine, including Animation Blueprints and Control Rig
Proven track record in VR development and performance optimization
Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills
The nice to haves:
Experience with procedural or physics-based animation systems
Knowledge of motion matching or machine learning in animation
Shipped multiple commercial games in a technical leadership role
Familiarity with animation middleware (e.g., Havok, HumanIK)
We are nDreams – we develop and publish the world’s most immersive VR games. You may know us as the developer behind Synapse, Phantom: Covert Ops, Fracked, and Frenzies. As a publisher, we have also supported the release of other studio’s titles including Little Cities, PowerWash Simulator VR, and Vendetta Forever. With humble beginnings as an independent studio, we combine amazing projects with a personal, caring touch. We’ve got more incredible titles to be announced soon!
We believe the best workplaces and games are created by diverse, happy and safe teams. We’re committed to building a culture centred on respect, wellbeing and balance. It’s crucial we make our games and industry more accessible to underrepresented communities. We strive to live this through the people we hire, the experiences we create and the causes we support.
We want everyone to have the opportunity to bring their best, authentic self to work. Please let us know if you require reasonable adjustments during the interview process by emailing [email protected] or speaking to your nDreams recruiter. For more information about reasonable adjustments, check out this guidance from Scope.
We offer great perks, including flexible hours, duvets days, your birthday off, dedicated personal development time and support, as well as regular socials. Beyond this, there’s an excellent holiday offering, pension scheme, health insurance, life cover and much more.
