Associate Principal Technical Artist: Rigging

At Rockstar Games, we create world-class entertainment experiences. 

Become part of a team working on some of the most rewarding, large-scale creative projects to be found in any entertainment medium - all within an inclusive, highly-motivated environment where you can learn and collaborate with some of the most talented people in the industry. 

Rockstar is on the lookout for an experienced Technical Artist who is passionate about rigging. This role will focus on researching and developing new technology for future titles, while also improving existing technology and tools.

This is a full-time, in-office position based out of Rockstar's unique game development studio in Oakville, ON. 

• The Rockstar Games Rigging team designs, builds, and maintains highly complex runtime deformation systems for the characters, animals, vehicles, and props that bring our games to life.
• We drive innovation in dynamic art pipelines through rigging systems, secondary motion setups, and continually evolve our tools and workflows from asset creation to in-engine visualization.
• We collaborate closely with the larger Technical Art team and related departments to ensure seamless integration where tools and pipelines intersect.
• We provide support to the Animation and Art department.

• Develop, test, and maintain high-quality body and face rigs, skinning, and secondary motion setups for a diverse range of 3D assets.
• Collaborate with runtime programmers, animators, and artists to create and improve engine features.
• Create authoring tools for the Rigging team in digital content creation environments and standalone applications.
• Partner with animators, artists, and technical artists to create tools and refine pipelines to maximize the best results throughout production.
• Support the entire rigging pipeline – from motion capture to final in-game output.
• Stay informed on the latest technology and research in motion and deformation to help keep our dynamic art visuals at the forefront of innovation.
• Write clear and detailed documentation for tools and workflows.

• A degree in Computer Science or related discipline.
• 7+ years of industry experience working as a character rigger, technical animator, animation engine programmer, or in a closely related role.
• A demo reel and/or online portfolio that demonstrates exceptional rigging skills, motion control systems, and complex body and face deformation and skinning for characters and creatures.
• Advanced Python programming and 3D math skills.
• Strong background in runtime rigging and tool development for rigging pipelines.
• Experience using source control software (i.e. Perforce, Git).
• Strong communication, self-management, and organizational skills.

Please note that these are desirable skills and are not required to apply for the position.

• C/C++ programming skills.
• Professional experience developing pipelines and creating tools.
• Experience with game engines (e.g. Unreal/Unity or proprietary technology).
• Professional experience as an artist or animator in game development.

Please apply with a resume and cover letter demonstrating how you meet the skills above. If we would like to move forward with your application, a Rockstar recruiter will reach out to you to explain next steps and guide you through the process.

Rockstar is committed to creating a work environment that promotes equal opportunity, dignity and respect.  In line with this commitment, Rockstar will provide accommodations to job applicants with disabilities (or on the basis of any other protected ground under human rights legislation) during the recruitment process, as well as to any Rockstar employees in order for them to perform the essential functions of their roles.  Rockstar will comply with its obligations under the Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and will provide accommodations as long as such accommodations do not pose an undue hardship on Rockstar.  If you need more information about Rockstar's accommodation policies or process, or need to request an accommodation, please notify your recruiter during the interview process.

If you've got the right skills for the job, we want to hear from you. We encourage applications from all suitable candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, or any other protected category.

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The pay range for this position in Ontario, Canada at the start of employment is expected to be between the range below* per year. However, base pay offered is based on market location, and may vary further depending on individualized factors for job candidates, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations.

Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits.  Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, the company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. The use of Artificial Intelligence is not being used to screen candidates. The position is for an existing vacancy.

*Ontario Base Pay Range

$96,400 - $142,660 CAD