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Lead Technical Animator

Company Description

To create revolutionary, story-driven RPGs which go straight to the hearts of gamers — this is our mission. Want to dive deeper into our company’s culture? Explore our social media and check out our YouTube channel where we share behind-the-scenes insights and stories direct from our team members!

Job Description

CD PROJEKT RED is looking for a Lead Technical Animator to join our studio to work on Project Sirius - an ambitious and exciting new project set in The Witcher universe. As a Lead Technical Animator, you will play a key role in shaping the visual identity of Project Sirius.

Responsibilities

  • Create and drive animation systems for characters, monsters, and environment.
  • Work closely with artists and engineers to create highly optimized animation systems.
  • Solve complex technical challenges.
  • Define and document technical animation processes, tools, and best practices.
  • Maintaining the animation pipeline.
  • Write and prepare briefs for work with outsource vendors, and review work as necessary.
  • Communicate and cooperate with other CDPR animation teams while pursuing common goals.
  • Engage with Directors and Production to estimate and plan work.
  • Stay atop modern and cutting edge animation technology.
  • Build a growing Technical Animation via recruiting, interviewing, and hiring.
  • Act as the direct manager for team members, conducting reviews, mentoring, and helping them achieve personal and professional growth.
  • Cultivate a positive, collaborative team culture aligned with the company’s values and goals.
  • Partner with the Production department to establish plans and ensure timely delivery of work.

Qualifications

  • Ability to work independently to identify and own work, deliver results.
  • Minimum 8 years of experience as a Technical Animator with at least 1 year in a leadership role. 
  • Shipped at least one AAA title.
  • Extensive experience with rigging in Maya and Motion Builder, UE5/Blueprint, facial animation, and lipsync.
  • Familiarity with motion capture technology
  • Experience optimizing animation assets, rigs, and systems for high runtime performance and efficiency
  • Comprehensive portfolio demonstrating expertise.
  • Meticulous attention to detail, especially with character deformation and physics.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and collaboration skills.
  • Positive attitude towards receiving feedback and exchanging knowledge.
  • Able to deliver and receive feedback in a productive and accountable manner.

Nice to have:

  • Experience with Motion matching.
  • Scripting proficiency in languages such as Python, LUA, etc.

 

Additional Information

This job can be hybrid/in-office from Boston or fully remote. 

Health & Well-being

  • Company paid medical healthcare (dental vision & mental).
  • Paid Leave — 20 days of holiday for every team member per year (26 days after two years).
  • No dress-code — we like to keep it casual.
  • 401K with employer matching.
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement.

Perks & Professional Growth

  • Flexible working hours.
  • Trainings, lectures and courses — internal workshops, knowledge-sharing initiatives, online tutorials, and e-learning classes are all available. There’s always something to learn!
  • Merch — gifts for newborn rebels and regular chances to nab some cool swag!
  • A welcome pack filled with goodies — to help you feel right at home once you join the team.

Life in the Office

  • Dog-friendly office — dog owner? Bring your pooch with you and look after them while working! There’s always a furry friend or two to meet at the studio.
  • Truly international working environment — a chance to meet and work with a diverse selection of people from all around the world.
     

If you have observed any irregularities in our recruitment process please click here to report them.

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Average salary estimate

$135000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$120000K
$150000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Lead Technical Animator, CD PROJEKT RED

CD PROJEKT RED is on a mission to create revolutionary, story-driven RPGs that resonate deeply with gamers, and we're searching for a Lead Technical Animator to help bring our latest project, Project Sirius, to life! As the Lead Technical Animator at our Boston studio, you will play a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of this exciting addition to The Witcher universe. Your responsibilities will range from creating and optimizing animation systems for characters and environments to defining technical processes and best practices. You'll collaborate closely with artists, engineers, and other animation teams to solve complex challenges and maintain an efficient animation pipeline. We value team culture, so you'll actively engage in mentoring and growing your team while ensuring timely delivery of our work. With a minimum of 8 years of experience under your belt, including significant leadership exposure in the animation field, you will be instrumental in recruiting and nurturing talent for our vibrant team. Plus, your extensive skills in Maya, Motion Builder, and UE5/Blueprint will be invaluable as we stay on the cutting edge of animation technology. Join us in a dynamic, dog-friendly environment where we encourage creativity and prioritize employee well-being, from flexible hours to comprehensive health benefits. If you’re passionate about animation and ready to lead a team immersed in exciting storytelling, this might just be your next great adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lead Technical Animator Role at CD PROJEKT RED
What are the responsibilities of a Lead Technical Animator at CD PROJEKT RED?

As a Lead Technical Animator at CD PROJEKT RED, your primary responsibilities will include creating and driving animation systems for characters, monsters, and environments, while also maintaining and optimizing the animation pipeline. You'll collaborate with both artists and engineers to tackle complex technical challenges and document animation processes. Additionally, you'll manage team members by conducting reviews and mentoring them in their professional growth.

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What qualifications are required for the Lead Technical Animator position at CD PROJEKT RED?

To be considered for the Lead Technical Animator position at CD PROJEKT RED, candidates should have at least 8 years of experience as a Technical Animator, with a minimum of 1 year in a leadership role. Candidates must have shipped at least one AAA title and possess extensive experience with rigging in Maya, Motion Builder, as well as knowledge of UE5/Blueprint. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a positive attitude towards feedback are also critical qualifications for this role.

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What is the work environment like for a Lead Technical Animator at CD PROJEKT RED?

At CD PROJEKT RED, the work environment for a Lead Technical Animator is collaborative and supportive. The company promotes a casual dress code, offers a dog-friendly office policy, and embraces an international culture where diverse ideas flourish. Employees are encouraged to engage in their communities with training opportunities, and the studio is equipped with resources that enhance teamwork and communication.

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What opportunities for professional growth does CD PROJEKT RED offer to Lead Technical Animators?

CD PROJEKT RED is committed to the professional growth of its Lead Technical Animators. The company provides flexible working hours, numerous training programs, internal workshops, and online learning opportunities. There are regular initiatives for knowledge-sharing, helping you to stay at the forefront of animation technology and techniques as well as fostering a culture of continuous learning.

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Can the Lead Technical Animator position at CD PROJEKT RED be done remotely?

Yes, the Lead Technical Animator position at CD PROJEKT RED can be hybrid or fully remote, allowing flexibility based on the candidate's preference. This approach helps to accommodate a diverse workforce while ensuring that you remain integrated with the team, regardless of your physical location.

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Common Interview Questions for Lead Technical Animator
Can you describe a complex animation system you have worked on?

When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your role in the project. Focus on specific techniques you used, such as your experience with rigging or motion capture technology, and discuss how you contributed to resolving any challenges that arose during development.

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How do you stay updated with the latest animation technology?

To effectively answer this question, discuss the various resources you utilize, such as industry forums, online courses, or conferences. Show your passion for learning and how staying current with trends helps you innovate in your work.

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What is your approach to mentoring team members?

When addressing your mentoring style, explain how you prioritize open communication and constructive feedback. Provide an example of a time you successfully helped a team member grow their skills and confidence in a specific area of animation.

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Describe a time you had to troubleshoot a problem in an animation project.

In your response, detail the specific problem, the steps you took to resolve it, and the successful outcome. Emphasizing your problem-solving skills and technical expertise will resonate with interviewers.

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How do you ensure quality in your animation processes?

In your answer, share your methods for maintaining high-quality standards, such as thorough testing protocols or regular reviews. Highlight the importance of collaboration with team members to integrate feedback effectively.

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What experience do you have with optimizing animation assets?

Discuss your hands-on experiences with optimizing animation rigs and assets for performance while maintaining visual quality. Mention specific tools or software you’ve utilized, showcasing your technical acumen.

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How would you collaborate with different departments on a project?

When answering this, underline your teamwork skills and the importance of clear communication. Provide examples of cross-departmental projects where you played a key role in facilitating collaboration between animators, artists, and engineers.

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What role do you see a Lead Technical Animator playing in game development?

Articulating your perspective on the role involves discussing strategic contributions to decision-making and project planning. Emphasize your leadership style and how you align your team's goals with the broader objectives of the project.

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Can you give an example of when you handled constructive criticism?

Reflecting on a time you received critical feedback, explain how you processed and incorporated it into your work. Highlight your growth and the improved outcome that followed, demonstrating your willingness to learn and adapt.

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What excites you about working at CD PROJEKT RED?

In your response, tailor your excitement to the company's mission and the innovative projects they undertake. Share how your professional values align with their culture and contribute to your motivation to be part of their team.

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Our mission is based on three pillars: 1. We create revolutionary story-driven RPGs, which go straight to the hearts of gamers from around the world. 2. We want to be counted among the world’s top three video game developers. 3. We ensure a lastin...

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DATE POSTED
April 11, 2025

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