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# Senior Gameplay Animator New

- **Company:** Sony Interactive Entertainment
- **Location:** Santa Monica, CA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $144,602.0 - $180,814.0
- **Contract:** Temporary contract
- **Skills:** Computer Animation, Software Debugging, Video Game Development, Game Engine, Maya, Motion Capture, State Machines
- **Published:** September 23, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.gamesjobsdirect.com/job/sony-interactive-entertainment/senior-gameplay-animator/359797

## About the Role

* Minimum of 1 shipped AAA game as a Senior Gameplay Animator (or equivalent)
 * Minimum of 5 years of experience in the video game industry
 * Expertise in systemic gameplay animation
 * Mastery of both motion capture and keyframe character animation as showcased by your strong animation reel
 * General technical knowledge of animation technologies, including state machines, blend trees, and motion matching
 * Passion for gaming and a deep understanding of game design principles and player experience
 * Ability to provide clear and constructive feedback to peers
 * Proven experience planning, setting up, and directing motion capture shoots independently and efficiently
 * Must be comfortable using a script editor
 * Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt quickly to challenges
 * Highly motivated, proactive, and solution-oriented, with a "can-do" attitude
 * A natural team player who fosters collaboration and inspires others across departments
 * Strong communication skills, ensuring clear and proactive interaction with animation and other teams
 * Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage shifting priorities, and keep stakeholders informed
 * Proactive in taking ownership of assignments and identifying new opportunities to support the team and company goals
 * Proficient with Maya/MotionBuilder animation tools, including layers, time/trax editor, and mocap tools

Bonus Skills:

 * Experience developing animation tools is a plus
 * Character rigging experience is a plus
 * Experience setting up in-game physics assets is a plus

## Description

* Create high-quality animation content in Maya and ensure proper implementation in our game engine
 * Serve as a positive role model through exemplary demeanor, ability, proactivity, communication, and productivity
 * Collaborate with the Animation, Design, and Engineering teams to create new exciting, mind-blowing systemic animations
 * Take ownership of challenging projects and provide innovative solutions, including mentoring team members and creating documentation
 * Direct and participate in motion capture shoots
 * Learn and master Naughty Dog's unique gameplay systems
 * Work with game systems, adhering to efficient and effective practices
 * Utilize engine debug tools to identify and resolve gameplay issues in collaboration with designers and programmers
 * Partner with animation leadership to define and uphold the style and quality bar for in-game animations
 * Provide constructive feedback to improve internal technologies and artistic workflows
 * Take on additional responsibilities as needed


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