At CD PROJEKT RED, our mission is to create revolutionary, story-driven RPGs which go straight to the hearts of gamers. From the sprawling streets of Night City to the untamed wilds of The Witcher’s Continent, we push the boundaries of what is possible in digital storytelling. To achieve this, we are expanding our Research and Development (R&D) horizons.
We are currently looking for a talented and experienced Senior Animation Programmer to join our elite R&D team in Vancouver, British Columbia. This is a high-impact, future-facing role dedicated to the development and implementation of cutting-edge, next-generation character animation systems. You will be at the forefront of the industry, exploring how animation generation models and advanced procedural systems can redefine character movement and expression. If you are a C++ virtuoso with a passion for animation technology, we want you to help us define the future of our titles.
Job Overview: Senior Animation Programmer
| Category | Details |
| Company Name | CD PROJEKT RED |
| Project Focus | Multiple AAA Projects (Next-Gen R&D) |
| Position Title | Senior Animation Programmer (R&D) |
| Employment Type | Full-time |
| Work Model | Hybrid / In-Office |
| Location | Vancouver, BC, Canada |
| Annual Salary Range | $127,200 – $209,900 CAD |
| Application Deadline | October 2, 2026 |
Job Description: Bridging Code and Character
As a Senior Animation Programmer within our R&D hub, you will act as a primary architect for the systems that govern how characters live and breathe in our games. You will focus on creating advanced tools and systems that complement generative models, ensuring that realistic character motion is not just a goal, but a standard.
This role requires a deep understanding of the delicate balance between visual fidelity and technical performance. You will be working in a highly collaborative environment, sitting at the intersection of machine learning research, core engineering, and creative animation.
Key Responsibilities
- System Architecture: Design, implement, and maintain advanced animation systems and internal tools specifically designed to integrate with generative models for hyper-realistic motion.
- Collaboration & Integration: Work closely with machine learning researchers, animators, and game designers to translate complex research into usable, high-quality animation features.
- Optimization & Stability: Profile, debug, and optimize animation code to ensure peak performance, minimal memory footprint, and rock-solid stability across multiple target platforms.
- Prototyping & Innovation: Rapidly prototype new animation techniques, including physics-based systems, procedural generation, and experimental IK solutions.
- Leadership & Mentorship: Mentor junior programmers and lead rigorous code reviews, fostering a culture of high standards, clear documentation, and technical excellence.
- Project Planning: Collaborate with lead engineers to define technical milestones, manage R&D risks, and deliver high-quality work on schedule.
Qualifications & Technical Requirements
We are seeking a candidate who combines a deep love for mathematics with the technical skills to implement complex systems in a large-scale codebase.
- Professional Tenure: 5+ years of experience in game programming, specifically focused on character animation systems.
- Programming Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in C++ and a strong track record of performance optimization.
- Animation Technology: Deep understanding of real-time 3D animation principles, including kinematics (IK/FK), rigging systems, and state machine architecture.
- Mathematics: Strong mathematical foundation, particularly in linear algebra, quaternions, and vector math.
- Engine Expertise: Experience working with large-scale engines. While experience with proprietary engines or Unity is valuable, Unreal Engine experience is highly preferred.
- Problem Solving: A proven ability to navigate complex technical challenges and a desire to explore the “unsolved” problems of animation R&D.
Nice to Have (Bonus Skills)
- Experience with Motion Matching, procedural animation, and real-time physics simulation.
- Familiarity with animation pipelines and DCC tools such as Maya or Blender.
- A track record of shipping at least one major AAA title.
- Knowledge of parallel programming and GPU optimization techniques (CUDA, compute shaders, etc.).
- Interest or experience in generative models and machine learning applications for animation.
CD PROJEKT RED offers a competitive and transparent compensation package designed to attract top-tier global talent to Vancouver.
- Base Salary Range: $127,200 – $209,900 CAD per annum.
- RRSP Program: Registered Retirement Savings Plan with employer matching to support your long-term financial health.
- LSA (Lifestyle Spending Account): $100 per month to be used for fitness, wellness, home office equipment, or personal learning subscriptions.
- Merch & Swag: Regular opportunities to nab exclusive studio gear and collectibles.
Health, Well-Being & Benefits
We understand that R&D is a demanding field. We provide a comprehensive suite of benefits to ensure you can focus on innovation without compromising your health or family life.
Comprehensive Healthcare
- Full Coverage: Company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Mental Health Support: Free access to counseling, psychiatric care, and a variety of well-being webinars.
- Menstrual Leave: One extra paid day off per month for employees who menstruate and experience period pain.
Time Off & Flexibility
- Generous Leave: 26 vacation days, 10 sick days, and 12 calendar holidays per year.
- Flexible Hours: We value results over “clock-in” times, allowing for a schedule that fits your life.
- RED Parents Network: Dedicated support and networking for working parents within the studio.
Our Vancouver office is a hub of international talent, operating in one of the most vibrant tech cities in North America.
- Dog-Friendly Office: We love our furry friends! You are welcome to bring your dog to the office.
- International Environment: Work with a diverse group of experts from all over the world.
- Professional Growth: Take advantage of internal workshops, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and online tutorials.
- Casual Culture: No dress code. We keep it casual so you can focus on being your most creative and productive self.
- Welcome Pack: A curated pack of goodies to help you feel at home the moment you join the team.
The R&D Vision at CD PROJEKT RED
The R&D team in Vancouver is tasked with looking beyond the current project cycle. You will be working on technology that will power our games for years to come. This is a “new role” within a growing team, meaning you will have a significant influence on the tools and methodologies we adopt. Whether it’s perfecting the way a character reacts to terrain or integrating AI-driven motion synthesis, your work will be seen by millions of players worldwide.
How to Apply: Please submit your CV and any relevant technical portfolios or code samples. The application window for this position closes on October 2, 2026.
CD PROJEKT RED is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you’ve observed any irregularities in our recruitment process, please report them anonymously via our dedicated portal.
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CD PROJEKT RED | Senior Animation Programmer, Canada
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