OverviewWe are looking for a wildly talented and experienced Senior Character Rigger to help us develop a robust studio level rigging system. As the Senior Character Rigger, you will be involved in the design and implementation of the system from the earliest stages. You will work with Animation to determine features, needs, and desires. You will also work with Engineering to develop an efficient pathway between the tools and the game.
The preferred location for this role is Hunt Valley, MD, Austin, TX, Madison, WI, San Diego, CA, or Seattle, WA. Will consider remote.
ResponsibilitiesBuild a rigging system that can support many characters and machinesBuild and maintain high-quality, high-performance animation rigsExpand upon the current rigging system with new features and modulesWork closely with Modelers and Animators to ensure all disciplines are getting what they needDevelop tools to support AnimationDocument system and advocate best practicesQualifications5+ years of industry experience in character rigging (Maya/3ds Max)Solid understanding of Python, C#, or another object oriented scripting languageSolid understanding of anatomy and kinematicsAbility and interest in rigging biomorphics and mechanicsSolid understanding of animation pipelinesAbility to develop animation tools to support rigs Ability to work collaboratively with technical and creative team membersExcellent communication and time management skillsSelf-sufficient, independent, and proactiveFamiliarity with common data formats: XML/JSON/etc. Familiarity with common 3D data formats: USD/OBJ/FBX/ALEMBIC/etc.
Experience working with third party animation tools (Havok, Granny, etc.)*Please include links to your work and clearly indicate your contributions. Resumes without work samples will not be considered. Preferred SkillsMotionBuilderPyQt or PySidePerforceUnderstanding of core game data pipelinesExperience with special effects and shadersGeneral interest in contemporary CGI techniquesSalary RangeSenior Character Rigger - The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $75,000 - $165,000 per year.
ZeniMax has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States, which allows us to pay employees competitively and consistently in different geographic markets. The range above reflects the potential base pay across the U.S. for this role; the applicable base pay range will depend on what ultimately is determined to be the candidate's primary work location. Individual base pay depends on various factors, in addition to primary work location, such as complexity and responsibility of role, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Base pay ranges are reviewed and typically updated each year. Offers are made within the base pay range applicable at the time.
At ZeniMax certain roles are eligible for additional rewards, such as merit increases and discretionary bonuses. These awards are allocated based on individual performance and are not guaranteed. Benefits/perks listed here may vary depending on the nature of employment with ZeniMax and the country work location. U.S.-based employees have access to healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, wellbeing benefits, paid vacation time, paid sick and mental health time, and several paid holidays, among others.
