Mid-Level C++ Animation Programmer for Real-Time Engine in Runcorn

For three decades, Rebellion has stood as a titan of independent game development. Founded by Jason and Chris Kingsley, we are a unique creative powerhouse that transcends gaming. From our state-of-the-art film studios and board game divisions to the legendary worlds of 2000AD and Judge Dredd, we thrive on creative freedom and technical excellence. We are looking for a talented Mid-Level Animation Programmer to join our elite Tech Team. This is a pivotal role within our Engine Animation Team, where you will contribute to one of our upcoming large-scale projects. You will be part of the seasoned crew responsible for some of the world’s most renowned shooters, working at the intersection of code and artistry to bring digital characters to life.

The Mission: Bridging Motion and Logic

In the world of high-end tactical shooters and action titles, animation is the heartbeat of gameplay. It is the difference between a character that feels “robotic” and one that feels responsive, lethal, and alive. As an Animation Programmer at Rebellion, you will act as a vital bridge between our animators, technical animators, and project engineers. Your primary tool will be Asura, our powerful proprietary engine. You won’t just be “hooking up” animations; you will be architecting the systems that allow for seamless movement, fluid combat transitions, and the expressive character responsiveness that our players expect. This is an opportunity to dive deep into the internal workings of real-time animation, influencing how millions of players experience our digital worlds.

Key Responsibilities

• Engine and Runtime Development
  • System Architecture: Develop and implement robust animation code within our in-house engine. You will maintain and evolve features within our animation systems, ensuring high performance and stability.
  • Runtime Logic: Focus on the runtime execution of animations, ensuring that transitions are smooth and that the visual appeal of in-game characters is matched by their responsiveness to player input.
  • Bug Resolution: Identify and resolve complex bugs within both familiar and unfamiliar areas of the codebase, utilizing advanced debugging and profiling techniques.
• Tooling and Content Collaboration
  • Pipeline Support: Work closely with content creators (animators and tech artists) to design and write tools that empower them to create incredible work more efficiently.
  • Class Implementation: Write and test larger C++ classes with complex functionality, ensuring that new gameplay mechanics are integrated seamlessly with the animation system.
  • FSM Management: Design and implement Finite State Machines (FSM) and related control systems that govern complex character behaviors and movement sets.
• Documentation and Peer Support
  • Technical Writing: Create, review, and update both technical documentation for fellow programmers and user documentation for the art and design teams.
  • Cross-Disciplinary Support: Provide technical guidance and support to other team members and programmers from different disciplines, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing.

Required Technical Qualifications

We are seeking a programmer who is passionate about the “how” and “why” of character movement. You should have a solid foundation in software engineering and a specific interest in the mathematics of motion.

• C++ Expertise: High proficiency in C++ is mandatory. You should have experience developing and maintaining complex, high-performance systems.
• Animation System Knowledge: A strong understanding of the architecture and internal workings of real-time animation systems (e.g., blending, IK, procedural animation).
• 3D Mathematics: A good working knowledge of 3D mathematics and geometry (vectors, quaternions, matrices) is essential for handling character transformations and spatial logic.
• State Machine Logic: Confident experience in designing and implementing Finite State Machines and related logic-driven animation control systems.
• Debugging & Profiling: Expert usage of IDEs and profiling tools to diagnose bottlenecks and resolve memory or performance issues.

Benefits and Rebellion Life

Rebellion is a stable, independently owned studio that prioritises the wellbeing and creative growth of its staff. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you in every stage of your life.

• Generous Leave: 22 days of holiday plus a dedicated Christmas closure (typically 4 days) and all UK Bank Holidays. Leave increases annually after 5 years of service.
• Health & Wellness: Private Medical Insurance, healthcare cash plans (including dental and vision), and life assurance.
• Financial Security: Enhanced pension scheme, interest-free/tax-free loans, and income protection.
• Support Systems: Enhanced family leave and an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing mental health and wellbeing support.
• Social & Extras: A wide range of discounts, freebies, and social events, along with free hot drinks and a handy onsite tuck shop at our headquarters.

Life at Rebellion Studios

While this role can be based in Warwick or Runcorn, our Oxford HQ serves as a central hub for our tech culture.

• Oxford (Riverside HQ): Our main studio is a short walk from the historic city centre and the train station, offering easy access to London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Oxford provides a unique blend of historical beauty and modern innovation.
• Collaboration First: We believe in the power of face-to-face collaboration. Our open-plan offices are designed to promote interaction between senior management and junior staff, fostering a flat hierarchy where great ideas can come from anywhere.
• Flexible Working: We understand the modern need for balance. While we encourage studio presence, we are open to discussing hybrid options that suit both the individual and the project needs.

Our Inclusive Culture

At Rebellion, we foster an environment where you are encouraged to be yourself. We work in our own way, and we celebrate that as the key to our three decades of success. We are actively recruiting for a diverse team because we know that a representative group makes better products. Whether you are neurodiverse, from a different cultural background, or have a unique life path, your talent is what matters most to us.

Application Requirements

• Your CV/Resume: Highlighting your experience with C++ and game animation systems.
• Cover Letter: (Optional but encouraged) Detailing your interest in animation programming and any specific projects you have worked on.
• Code Samples: (If available) Links to GitHub or specific examples of C++ systems you have architected.

Please note: This role is only open to candidates with the permanent right to work in the UK. Rebellion cannot provide visa sponsorship at this time.