This role is based at our studio in Gateshead and therefore it is imperative that you live within a commutable distance
We are seeking an experienced Senior / Lead Animator to join Last Arrow Games. The role is responsible for bringing player characters and a diverse range of creatures to life in Unreal Engine 5, while leading and mentoring the animation team and helping develop animation pipelines and workflows.
- Create high-quality animations for player characters and creatures
- Lead, mentor and scale the animation team
- Develop believable creature movement and behaviours
- Animate locomotion, traversal, attacks, reactions and cinematics
- Collaborate with designers, artists and engineers
- Manage rigging and export pipelines
- Improve animation workflows, tools and pipelines
- Conduct animation reviews and provide feedback
- Estimate work and support production planning
Key Skills Required
- 5+ years game development experience with at least one shipped title
- Experience animating creatures and characters
- Non-humanoid rigging expertise
- Unreal Engine animation integration
- Maya, Blender or equivalent proficiency
- Leadership, mentoring and communication skills
- Strong organisational and time management skills
Desirable
- Animation Blueprints in UE5
- Control Rig, procedural animation or Motion Matching
- Cinematic animation experience
Qualifications
- Professional animation training desirable
- Strong portfolio and practical experience essential
- Must be eligible to work in the UK
What We Offer
At Last Arrow, we’re committed to creating a supportive, rewarding working environment where our people can thrive. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your wellbeing, protect your future, and support life inside and outside work. Our benefits include:
- Competitive Salary
- Healthcare Cash Plan – Cashback on everyday healthcare expenses such as dental, optical, and physiotherapy.
- Tech Purchase Scheme – Spread the cost of new technology through affordable monthly payments.
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Save on bikes and cycling equipment while supporting a healthy, eco‑friendly commute.
- Income Protection – Financial support if you’re unable to work due to long‑term illness or injury.
- Critical Illness & Life Insurance – Extra peace of mind for you and your family.
- Virtual GP Service – Quick and convenient access to medical advice, whenever you need it.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – Confidential support for mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
- Discounts & Cashback Platform – Savings on hundreds of retailers, essentials, and lifestyle purchases.
- Birthday Day Off – Enjoy an additional day of paid leave to celebrate your birthday.
- A Supportive Working Environment – A culture that values wellbeing, collaboration, and personal growth.
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