Animation Systems Programmer

ENGINEERING - SPECIAL PROJECTS

What We Do

The Special Projects team at Epic is responsible for executing high-impact projects that push the envelope to define the future of real-time graphics and gaming technology (The Matrix Awakens, Lumen in the Land of Nanite). In collaboration with the Unreal Engine team, we strive to put our technology and knowledge into the hands of users, empowering developers and content creators with the most powerful suite of real-time tools in the world.

What You'll Do

Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future projects that push boundaries, explore new technology, and help define the future of Unreal Engine. You will be responsible for developing, enhancing, optimizing, and maintaining the core animation systems and will work closely with Animation, Design, and Engineering colleagues to ensure characterful and entertaining animation that is efficient and performant. You will also help identify potential issues and deploy correct solutions, using your technical knowledge to help bridge and facilitate communication between the animation team and other departments.

In this role, you will

• Architect, implement, and maintain core animation systems used across the Special Projects team
• Work closely with other engineers, animators, technical animators, product designers, leads and external technology partners across multiple teams and time zones
• Write technical documentation and designs
• Conduct exploratory research to pioneer and develop innovative animation systems and techniques that push the boundaries of what is possible in real-time production

What we're looking for

• Extensive experience writing C++ applications
• Excellent linear algebra skills and applications of linear algebra in software 
• Experience with rigging systems, animation state machines, low-level animation systems, physics-based, procedural, and/or IK animation systems
• Experience with multi-threaded programming and system tasks such as graphics, audio, I/O, networking, memory handling, debuggers, etc.
• Experience with application-level programming, such as script compilers and user-facing tools
• Strong artistic intuition and an eye for quality animation; as technical tooling becomes more advanced, you prioritize the visual "feel" of the animation to ensure it meets the highest standards
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, self-motivated, and able to work independently
• Creativity in problem-solving and the ability to think outside of the established solutions
• Knowledge of ML/AI and its potential applications
• Someone who is user-focused, passionate, solutions-focused, and innovative. These traits equal success at Epic and influence everything we do

EPIC JOB + EPIC BENEFITS = EPIC LIFE

Our intent is to cover all things that are medically necessary and improve the quality of life. We pay 100% of the premiums for both you and your dependents. Our coverage includes Medical, Dental, a Vision HRA, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & a 401k with competitive match. We also offer a robust mental well-being program through Modern Health, which provides free therapy and coaching for employees & dependents. Throughout the year we celebrate our employees with events and company-wide paid breaks. We offer unlimited PTO and sick time and recognize individuals for 7 years of employment with a paid sabbatical.