At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative animation systems for immersive VR experiences.
- Company: Join nDreams, a pioneer in creating cutting-edge VR games.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, duvet days, and a competitive salary with great perks.
- Other info: Fully remote role with a focus on diversity, wellbeing, and career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of animation technology and mentor talented teams.
- Qualifications: Expert C++ skills and experience with animation systems in game engines required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
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. You may know us as the developer behind Synapse, Phantom: Covert Ops, Fracked, and Frenzies. As a publisher, we have also supported the release of other studio’s titles including Little Cities, PowerWash Simulator VR, and Vendetta Forever. With humble beginnings as an independent studio, we combine amazing projects with a personal, caring touch. We’ve got more incredible titles to be announced soon!
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 interviewing@ndreams.com 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.
Remote Principal Animation Programmer - Studio Elevation (Remote within the UK) in Suffolk employer: nDreams Limited
At nDreams, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and creativity in the realm of VR gaming. Our fully remote work culture within the UK fosters a supportive environment where you can thrive, with flexible hours, personal development opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Join us to lead groundbreaking animation technology while enjoying competitive benefits and a strong focus on employee wellbeing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Remote Principal Animation Programmer - Studio Elevation (Remote within the UK) in Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those at nDreams or similar studios. Attend virtual meetups or forums where you can chat about animation tech and VR. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in animation programming. Include projects that demonstrate your expertise with C++, Unreal Engine, and any innovative techniques you've used. Make it easy for potential employers to see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common technical questions related to animation systems and VR development. Practice explaining your thought process when solving complex problems. This will help you stand out as a candidate who not only knows their stuff but can also communicate effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at nDreams. Let’s make some amazing VR experiences together!
We think you need these skills to ace Remote Principal Animation Programmer - Studio Elevation (Remote within the UK) in Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Animation Programmer role. Highlight your experience with animation systems, C++, and VR development to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Show Off Your Projects:Include links to your previous work or projects that showcase your skills in animation programming. We love seeing what you've done, especially if it relates to VR or innovative animation techniques!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at nDreams.
How to prepare for a job interview at nDreams Limited
✨Know Your Animation Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of animation systems, especially in the context of VR. Be ready to discuss your experience with Unreal Engine, Animation Blueprints, and Control Rig. Highlight specific projects where you've led the design or evolution of core animation systems.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Animation Programmer, you'll be expected to mentor and guide teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or supported junior programmers in the past. This is your chance to demonstrate your ability to foster growth and excellence within a team.
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Expect to face complex animation challenges during the interview. Think about specific problems you've solved in previous roles, particularly those involving procedural animation or performance optimisation. Be ready to discuss your problem-solving approach and the architectural decisions you've made.
✨Align with Their Vision
Research nDreams and their games to understand their creative vision and values. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially regarding making games more accessible and inclusive. Showing that you resonate with their culture will set you apart.
