Sumo has an amazing opportunity for a highly creative Lead Technical Animator to join Sumo's Sheffield studio where they will have the opportunity to showcase and grow their skills within a seasoned and proven team. This fantastic opportunity to influence, define and manage the character pipeline of large, genre-defining AAA titles is one not to be missed.
With a rich history of developing multiple AAA franchises such as Little Big Planet and Crackdown, as well as contributing to genre-defining titles like the Forza Motorsport and Hitman series, Sumo Sheffield’s vast development experience spans multiple genres and platforms.
The team have a track record of working on some of the world's biggest and best games and received two BAFTAs for their work on Sackboy: A Big Adventure. As the scale and exclusivity of projects continues to grow, there’s never been a more exciting time to join the Sumo Sheffield family!
For this role, you'll need to have a wealth of experience and impressive track record backed up by a body of work demonstrating your highly creative approach. A passion for developing intuitive character rigs, innovative animation tools and robust character pipelines is essential. Experience developing in Python, Pymel and Pyside would be ideal. Maya API and 3D maths experience would be a plus, strong problem solving skills are essential. Experience of in engine character systems in both Unreal/Unity an advantage.
Within this role you will...
Develop, manage and maintain a class leading character pipeline and toolset
Work closely with code, design, character art and animation to help deliver both, engaging gameplay and cinematic performances
Demonstrate a solid understanding of animation fundamentals, human anatomy and kinesiology
Own Lead responsibilities such as mentoring, scheduling and R&D into new approaches
Provide detailed input during the character creation process, from initial concept to final rigging, identifying character performance and functionality requirements
Demonstrate an understanding of the pipelines and procedures within the studio as a whole
For this role, you will need...
Proven industry experience developing character pipelines for console and/or PC games with a minimum of 1 published game
Evidence of previous games completed in a Senior technical animation role
A strong demo reel that adequately reflects this experience
Solid knowledge of Maya. Max also a plus
Scripting, tools and pipeline development using Python, Pymel, Pyside and Maya API. Shotgun API experience a big plus
Understanding of character creation process from initial concept to final rigging
Experience of FACS and motion capture pipelines highly desirable
Excellent written and oral communication skills
A keen interest in industry wide developments and advancement in technology to ensure project pipelines stay up to date
Just some of the benefits of working with Sumo Sheffield include...
Defined Annual Bonus Scheme
ULEV car scheme
Monthly allowance to spend on enhancing benefits
Flexible Working
Your birthday off
5 learning days including 1 volunteer day
Duvet day
Christmas shutdown from Christmas Eve to New Year
Bank Holidays
Extra allowance accrued for longer service
Free dental insurance
Employee Referral Bonus
Relocation Support to the UK
Visa Sponsorship
For more information regarding this vacancy please contact Jordan Langley at jordan.langley@aswift.com or call +44 (0)1709 834 777 now!
