60 Level Up Lead Animator Jobs Hiring Near You

Overview

Step into a lead role within IGT's Vibe Game Studio in Reno, Nevada, as an Animator IV, where your creativity, technical expertise, and artistic vision will help shape both our next generation of games and the culture of innovation within the studio. In this senior-level role, you will lead animation efforts from concept to final implementation, establishing the visual tone and quality standards for groundbreaking gaming experiences while mentoring and elevating fellow animators.

Working closely with Game Designers, Engineers, Technical Artists, and Art peers, you will drive a collaborative and holistic approach to game development that pushes the boundaries of casino gaming entertainment. Your contributions will directly support IGT's mission to pioneer the future of gaming by creating animations that captivate players, enhance gameplay, and deliver memorable experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create and lead the development of complex animations and dynamic visual effects for EGM (Electronic Gaming Machine) development, including both real-time and pre-rendered content.
• Drive and collaborate on the creative vision for animation across multiple game development projects, establishing high standards for quality, style, and player engagement.
• Develop storyboards, animatics, and gameplay sequences that maximize excitement and enhance the overall player experience.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to define animation strategies, artistic direction, and final animation assets that align with gameplay and narrative goals.
• Spearhead the creation of specialized animation techniques supporting advanced game mechanics such as progressive bonuses, jackpots, immersive bonus rounds, and attract sequences.
• Mentor and coach junior animators, helping them refine their artistic skills and technical expertise while fostering a culture of growth and collaboration.
• Review and provide feedback on animation assets from peers and junior team members to ensure successful integration into the game engine and adherence to visual and performance standards.
• Play and evaluate games in studio test environments, Unity builds, and standalone game versions, providing constructive feedback to elevate animation quality and player impact.
• Innovate new animation workflows, tools, and techniques, incorporating advanced visual effects such as particle systems and motion graphics to enhance gameplay experiences.
• Ensure all animations maintain the intended tone, atmosphere, and visual integrity of the game experience, making adjustments and providing direction as needed.
• Collaborate closely with Game Designers, Technical Artists, and Art peers to conceptualize animation sequences that strengthen storytelling, gameplay clarity, and player interaction.

Work Location

This role is based onsite at our Reno office. While it isn't remote-eligible, we welcome applicants who already live in Reno/surrounding areas or are excited about the opportunity to relocate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Animation, Art, Game Design, or a related field - or equivalent professional experience.
• 8+ years of professional animation experience, including at least 5 years focused on game development.
• Proven success leading animation projects or mentoring teams within the gaming industry, particularly in EGMs or other real-time interactive experiences.
• Strong demo reel showcasing visual storytelling, choreography, timing, and mastery of animation principles across effects, symbols, environments, and gameplay sequences.
• Expert-level proficiency in 2D and 3D animation tools such as After Effects, Spine, Maya, and Blender.
• Experience creating and implementing real-time animations in Unity.
• Strong understanding of EGM-specific animation elements including reel spins, transitions, base and bonus features, math screens, attract sequences, and jackpot effects.
• Familiarity with slot game or casino gaming animation pipelines, including integration into proprietary game engines and development platforms.
• Exceptional attention to detail in animation principles, movement, composition, and timing within fast-paced production environments.
• Animation test required as part of the interview process.

Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership
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