Principal Animator

Who We Are

2K is headquartered in Novato, California and is a wholly owned label of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (NASDAQ: TTWO). Founded in 2005, 2K Games is a global video game company, publishing titles developed by some of the most influential game development studios in the world. Our studios responsible for developing 2K's portfolio of world-class games across multiple platforms, include Visual Concepts, Firaxis, Hangar 13, Cat Daddy, Cloud Chamber, 31st Union, HB Studios, and 2K Sports Lab.

Our portfolio of titles is expanding due to our global strategic plan, building and acquiring exciting studios whose content continues to inspire all of us! 2K publishes titles in today's most popular gaming genres, including sports, shooters, action, role-playing, strategy, casual, and family entertainment.

Our team of engineers, marketers, artists, writers, data scientists, producers, thinkers and doers, are the professional publishing stewards of 2K's portfolio currently includes several AAA, sports and entertainment brands, including global powerhouse NBA️ 2K, renowned Bio Shock️, Borderlands️, Mafia, Sid Meier's Civilization️ and XCOM️ brands; popular WWE️ 2K and WWE️ Super Card franchises, Top Spin 2K25, as well as the critically and commercially acclaimed PGA TOUR️ 2K

At 2K, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive work environment, which means encouraging our teams to Come as You Are and do your best work! We encourage ALL applicants to explore our global positions, even if they don't meet every requirement for the role. If you're interested in the job and think you have what it takes to work at 2K, we encourage you to apply!

What We Need

A technical leader and creative visionary to define high-fidelity character systems for players and NPCs. You will lead R&D efforts to reduce iteration friction by prototyping cutting-edge tools for motion synthesis, procedural physics, and facial performance, ensuring a seamless blend of believable motion and fluid player control.

What You'll Do

* Pioneer R&D Workflows:
Research and automate motion synthesis, cleanup, and secondary motion.

* Architect Character Systems:
Design fluid animation states for traversal, combat, and stealth.

* Drive Motion Matching:
Use generative models to synthesize transitions and label massive mocap libraries.

* Reach Film Standards:
Deliver lifelike facial nuance and seamless cinematic-to-gameplay transitions.

* Optimize Pipelines:
Partner with tools programmers to automate rigging, FACS, and cleanup in Maya/Engine.

* Maintain Control & Quality:
Ensure R&D tools prioritize artistic intent and meet 2K's high-quality bar.

What Will Make You a Great Fit

* AAA

Experience:

Shipped at least one AAA title as a Lead/Principal Animator (UE5 preferred).

* Technical Mastery:
Deep knowledge of Motion Matching, Control Rig, and Anim Blueprints.

* Rigging Knowledge:
Strong foundation in skinning, blend shapes, and FACS.

* Innovation Focused:

A passion for replacing legacy workflows with scalable, R&D-driven solutions.

As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to ensuring that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform their essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us if you need reasonable accommodation.

Please note that 2K Games and its studios never uses instant messaging apps or personal email accounts to contact prospective employees or conduct interviews and when emailing, only use  accounts.

The pay range for this position in California at the start of employment is expected to be between $154,400 and $220,000 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 and eligibility to participate in our 401(K) plan and Employee Stock Purchase Program.

Regular, full-time employees are also eligible for a range of benefits at the Company, including: medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance coverage; 14 paid holidays per calendar year; paid vacation time per calendar year (ranging from 15 to 25 days) or eligibility to participate in the Company's discretionary time off program; up to 10 paid sick days per calendar year;

paid parental and compassionate leave; wellbeing programs for mental health and other wellness support; family planning support through Maven; commuter benefits; and reimbursements for fitness-related expenses.