Senior 3D Cinematic Animation Artist at thatgamecompany
Company: thatgamecompany
Location: Remote – United States
Job Type: Full-Time (Remote)
Salary: $107,000 – $148,000 USD annually + bonus
About the Role
thatgamecompany, the award-winning studio behind Journey, flOw, and Flower, is expanding its team for Sky: Children of the Light. The team is seeking a Senior 3D Cinematic Animation Artist to join the Art department and collaborate closely with Design.
This role focuses on crafting cinematic storytelling experiences through in-game cutscenes, animation, and narrative development using both proprietary and industry-standard tools.
Job Overview
- Design and implement in-game cinematics and narrative cutscenes
- Work within game engines to create complex cinematic timelines
- Develop animations for characters, props, and environments
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including design and engineering
- Contribute to narrative storytelling and visual direction
Key Responsibilities
- Create emotionally engaging cinematics for gameplay and storytelling
- Modify and refine existing cinematic sequences
- Develop storyboards, animatics, and narrative concepts
- Produce high-quality 3D keyframe animations
- Implement, test, and debug assets within the game engine
- Maintain clear communication across interdisciplinary teams
- Deliver work within fast-paced, dynamic production timelines
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in cinematics production for games or animation for film/TV/commercials
- Strong understanding of cinematography, editing, and visual storytelling principles
- Proficiency in Autodesk Maya
- Experience with 3D game engines and production workflows
- Expertise in 3D character animation and keyframe techniques
- Ability to communicate ideas through storyboards, thumbnails, and animatics
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Willingness to learn new tools and technologies
Education
A degree in Animation, Game Design, Fine Arts, or a related field is preferred, or equivalent professional experience.
Benefits & Perks
- Paid time off, holidays, and two-week winter break
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage from day one
- Pet insurance options
- 401(k) savings plan with company match
- Pre-tax wellness and work-from-home stipends
- Mental health support including Headspace and EAP
- Employee discount portal
- Diversity and inclusion initiatives
- Professional development support
- Compassionate leave for family care