Remote Principal Animation Programmer - Studio Elevation (Remote within the UK) in Lancaster

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Principal Animation Programmer to lead the development of cutting-edge animation systems that define the feel and fidelity of our immersive VR experiences. In this senior-most technical role, you will shape the future of animation technology across our projects, driving innovation and mentoring teams to deliver world-class results. You’ll architect and evolve animation systems and tools in close collaboration with animators, designers, and gameplay engineers. Your leadership will ensure that our animation pipelines are scalable, performant, and aligned with the creative vision of our games. This is a rare opportunity to influence the direction of animation technology at a studio known for pushing the boundaries of VR.

The rundown:

• 12-month fixed term contract
• Full time (37.5 hours per week)
• Fully remote within the UK
• Salary is competitive and dependent on experience

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the design and evolution of core animation systems for VR gameplay
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of animation with gameplay and narrative
• Drive innovation in procedural animation, IK systems, and runtime rigging
• Set technical direction and long-term strategy for animation technology
• Solve complex animation challenges and guide architectural decisions
• Champion code quality, maintainability, and robust documentation
• Mentor and support programmers across all levels, fostering growth and excellence
• Partner with QA and production to ensure animation features meet quality and delivery goals
• Evaluate and introduce new tools, techniques, and middleware to enhance workflows

The skills you’ll need:

• Expert-level C++ programming skills and deep experience with animation systems in game engines
• Strong understanding of animation principles and real-time implementation
• Extensive experience with Unreal Engine, including Animation Blueprints and Control Rig
• Proven track record in VR development and performance optimization
• Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills

The nice to haves:

• Experience with procedural or physics-based animation systems
• Knowledge of motion matching or machine learning in animation
• Shipped multiple commercial games in a technical leadership role
• Familiarity with animation middleware (e.g., Havok, HumanIK)

We are nDreams – we develop and publish the world’s most immersive VR games. We believe the best workplaces and games are created by diverse, happy and safe teams. We're committed to building a culture centred on respect, wellbeing and balance. It's crucial we make our games and industry more accessible to underrepresented communities. We strive to live this through the people we hire, the experiences we create and the causes we support. We want everyone to have the opportunity to bring their best, authentic self to work. Please let us know if you require reasonable adjustments during the interview process by emailing or speaking to your nDreams recruiter. For more information about reasonable adjustments, check out this guidance from Scope.

We offer great perks, including flexible hours, duvet days, your birthday off, dedicated personal development time and support, as well as regular socials. Beyond this, there’s an excellent holiday offering, pension scheme, health insurance, life cover and much more.