About Dambuster Studios

Originally founded in 1999 as Free Radical Design our ambition and passion comes through as strongly now as when we first began.  We are always seeking individuals who can emulate our values - passion, quality, and teamwork - which are embodied in our diverse and inclusive culture. 

Even if you’re not sure that you meet all the criteria for a role, don’t be put off from applying - we want to hear from you.  Our only requirement is that you work from the UK, and if you’re not here right now we can discuss relocation if the role requires you be on-site frequently (if the role requires this, it’s outlined in the advert below).  Our internal Wellbeing Committee and Mental Health First Aiders help ensure that our diversity is championed in a safe environment in our city centre studio.

Technical Animator (FTC)

Dambuster Studios - creators of the number one BAFTA-nominated smash hit Dead Island 2 -  has an exciting opportunity for a Technical Animator to join our highly talented Animation team on a fixed term contract until the end of March 2028. This role can be on site in our Nottingham studio, hybrid, or fully remote within the UK.

Role overview 

As a member of the Animation team, you will act as a vital link between creative and technical teams, ensuring seamless integration of animation content into the production pipeline. You will focus on developing and maintaining efficient animation workflows, creating high-quality character rigs and deformation systems, and providing technical support to artists. By collaborating closely with animators, character artists, and other disciplines, you will ensure consistency, quality, and performance across all animation-related systems, while driving innovation and solving complex technical challenges throughout the project lifecycle.

What we can offer you

• Core hours 9.30am – 4pm, remaining hours worked flexibly
• Relocation support to Nottingham, UK (if required)
• Holiday allowance that increases with service (to a maximum of 30 days plus statutory public holidays)
• Inclusion into the studio’s annual pay review (effective 1st July) following 12 months service
• Company pension contribution that increases with service
• Private Medical Insurance via AXA Health, including dental and optical cover
• Life Assurance Scheme via Zurich (x3 salary cover)
• Company enhanced full pay for maternity leave for the first 26 weeks (to qualifying expectant mothers)
• Clear career progression within Dambuster Studios
• Studio funded learning and development opportunities
• Modern game development environment with the latest technologies
• Vibrant, modern city centre location with good transport links
• Travel Loan Scheme for Nottingham-based employees
• Fully subsidised gym membership with Virgin gym (Nottingham)
• Quarterly company funded cross-team events such as our Annual Christmas Party, Summer Family BBQ and Teambuilding activities
• Free financial advice
• Employee referral bonus scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Weekly office treats, including breakfast on Monday and pastries on Friday

Responsibilities

• Acting as a bridge between creative and technical departments.
• Collaborating with other disciplines and contributing to the overall development of the project and raising any other issues to their Lead that may need to be addressed.
• Provide support and solve the problems encountered by our content creation teams. Often moving between tasks to respond to issues in a timely manner.
• Defining and maintaining the standards for quality, consistency and efficiency.
• Working closely with the Animation Leads and Character Art team, providing regular feedback to improve the Animation and Character pipelines.
• Hands-on involvement, and raising the bar by guiding rigging, skinning, and character tech.
• Creating high quality animation rigs and character skinning for body and facial.
• Collaborating with other game departments and contributing to the overall development of the project and raising any other issues that may need to be addressed.

Requirements

• Solid understanding of Character deformation techniques and dynamics.
• Good communication skills and a great team-player attitude.
• Collaborate with other disciplines on technical requirements for the animation pipelines.
• Working knowledge of Unreal Engine 4/5 and the according animation system and toolset.
• Understanding of facial animation methodologies.

Equal Opportunities Statement

Dambuster Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Anyone considering their next step in their career journey with Dambuster will receive consideration without regard to gender (including gender identity, gender expression and gender reassignment), race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, disability, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity or paternity, or membership in any other legally protected category.  We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees, and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to apply.

We operate a transparent recruitment process that removes barriers for those who require reasonable adjustments.  If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment or onboarding process, or if you are successful in securing a position with us, please let us know what we can do to ensure your success.