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Company: NAUGHTYDOG

Naughty Dog | Senior 3D Technical Gameplay Animator, CA

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Naughty Dog is seeking a visionary and highly skilled Senior Technical Gameplay Animator to bridge the gap between creative artistry and advanced engineering. In this specialized role, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex, high-fidelity runtime animation systems and dynamic character behaviors that form the backbone of our gameplay experiences. This is not a character rigging position; rather, it is a role designed for an expert animator who possesses deep technical programming or scripting capabilities. Operating from our studio in Santa Monica, California, under a hybrid or onsite arrangement, you will collaborate closely with Animation, Design, and Gameplay Engineering teams. Your goal will be to pioneer next-generation animation pipelines, build cutting-edge runtime tools (such as advanced state machines and blend trees), and author high-quality animation content to test and prove these systems in-engine. As a senior member of the “Kennel,” you will take full ownership of complex technical initiatives, mentor peers, and directly influence the cinematic gameplay standards of our upcoming title, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. Job Overview : Senior Technical Gameplay Animator Attribute Details Job Title Senior Technical Gameplay Animator Company Naughty Dog (Sony Interactive Entertainment) Location Santa Monica, California, USA Work Arrangement Hybrid / Onsite Experience Level Senior (5+ Years of Industry Experience) Core Technical Stack Python, C#, C++, Maya, MotionBuilder Specialization Runtime Animation Systems, State Machines, Blend Trees, IK Solvers Key Projects Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet (and legacy support for The Last of Us franchise) Compensation $126,400 – $227,500 USD Base + Annual Bonus & Sony Benefits Welcome to Naughty Dog For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been crafting best-selling, critically acclaimed video games that consistently shatter the boundaries of narrative depth, gameplay design, and graphical technology. Our studio is widely lauded for creating evocative, character-driven stories defined by an uncompromising attention to detail. From the sweeping, cinematic survival-horror of The Last of Us franchise—which recently expanded its reach with The Last of Us Part II Remastered on PS5 and groundbreaking PC releases for both Part I and Part II—to our rich history of genre-defining action, we strive to make games that leave a lasting cultural impact. At Naughty Dog, we have curated a community of the top creative and technically innovative minds in the global interactive entertainment industry. We believe that a broad, diverse range of cultural and life experiences contributes fundamentally to the overall well-being of our studio and the ultimate success of our titles. We are heavily committed to continuous innovation, and we want talented individuals who share our passion for storytelling and technical excellence to join us at the kennel as we develop our highly anticipated new project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. Position Purpose & Detailed Scope The boundary between real-time gameplay and cinematic narrative continues to blur, demanding animation systems that are incredibly responsive to player input while maintaining flawless physical realism. The Senior Technical Gameplay Animator is the linchpin of this ecosystem. This role requires a rare combination of skills: the artistic eye of a world-class animator and the logical mindset of a software developer. You will not merely consume tools provided by engineers; you will actively participate in defining how those tools are architected. By mastering in-engine systems like state machines, blend trees, parametric blending, and complex inverse kinematics (IK) solvers, you will transform raw motion-capture data and hand-keyed animation into living, breathing character systems that react organically to changing virtual environments. Key Responsibilities 1. System Design & Pipeline Innovation 2. Implementation, Content Creation & Troubleshooting 3. Leadership, Quality Bar & Knowledge Management About You (Selection Criteria) To excel in this role, you must be a proactive, communicative problem-solver who enjoys working at the cutting edge of real-time interactive technology. Experience & Artistry Technical Skill Matrix Compensation, Perks & Benefits Base Salary & Financial Packages The estimated base salary range for this position in the Los Angeles area is $126,400 to $227,500 USD. At Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), several key factors are evaluated when establishing individual compensation packages. The finalized offer is dependent on job-related parameters, including the candidate’s deep domain knowledge, specific technical skill sets, years of relevant experience, production track record, and alignment with our hybrid working policies. This role may also be eligible for comprehensive additional compensation rewards, including an annual performance bonus and other long-term studio incentive plans. Top-Tier Corporate Benefits Naughty Dog employees have access to Sony Interactive Entertainment’s premium, competitive benefits package, designed to support long-term physical, mental, and financial well-being: Equal Opportunity & Background Checks Naughty Dog and Sony Interactive Entertainment are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive, safe, and collaborative work environment where all individuals are welcome, respected, and empowered. Please note: Sony Interactive Entertainment conducts thorough background checks at the offer stage for all prospective employees in accordance with local legal frameworks (which may include criminal history reviews for certain positions) to ensure studio safety and protect proprietary internal technologies. All personal information collected during this process is securely handled in compliance with our Candidate Privacy Notice. Naughty Dog | Senior 3D Technical Gameplay Animator, CA Apply now See open roles Explore More Jobs

Senior Lighting Artist job at Naughty Dog

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Job Overview Company: Naughty Dog (a studio of Sony Interactive Entertainment) Job Title: Senior Lighting Artist (Cinematics) Job Type: Full-Time Location: Santa Monica, CA, USA Work Model: Hybrid / On-site Seniority Level: Senior Required Experience: 7+ Years in Games, Animation, or Film Salary Range: $143,700 – $160,000 USD (Base Pay) Reporting Structure: Lighting Lead / Art Director Industry: Video Game Development / Interactive Entertainment Executive Summary Naughty Dog, the world-renowned developer behind some of the most critically acclaimed franchises in gaming history, is seeking a visionary Senior Lighting Artist to join our elite Cinematics team. Located in Santa Monica, California, this role is a cornerstone of our storytelling process, responsible for the evocative, character-driven lighting that has become a hallmark of the Naughty Dog brand. As we continue development on our latest project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, we are looking for a veteran artist who can bridge the gap between technical innovation and cinematic artistry. The ideal candidate will possess a masterful understanding of light, color, and shadow, with the ability to translate conceptual art into breathtaking, real-time cinematic sequences. Joining Naughty Dog means becoming part of a legacy of excellence, pushing the PS5 and PC hardware to its absolute limits to create enduring experiences for a global audience. Company Overview: The Naughty Dog Legacy For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been a pioneer in the interactive entertainment industry. We are defined by a relentless pursuit of perfection, crafting best-selling titles that redefine narrative depth and technical fidelity. From the harrowing journey of The Last of Us series to the globe-trotting adventures of Uncharted, our studio “kennel” is a place where the industry’s top creative and technical minds collaborate to create magic. Our Culture and Vision: Innovation: We don’t just follow industry trends; we set them. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in real-time rendering and cinematic storytelling. Attention to Detail: We believe that the smallest nuances—a flicker of light, a speck of dust, the glint in a character’s eye—are what make a world feel alive. Diversity & Inclusion: We welcome candidates from all walks of life, believing that a broad range of cultural and life experiences is essential to creating stories that resonate globally. Current Frontier: Having successfully brought our flagship titles to the PS5 and PC, we are now focused on our new IP, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, expanding our horizons into new worlds. Role Overview The Senior Lighting Artist at Naughty Dog is much more than a technical executor; you are a digital cinematographer. Your role is to utilize light as a narrative tool, establishing the mood, atmosphere, and emotional weight of our cinematic sequences. Working within our high-end proprietary engine, you will collaborate across departments to ensure that every frame of a cinematic sequence meets our “gold standard” of quality. You will be responsible for the high-level development of lighting schemes for both environments and complex characters, ensuring a seamless visual transition between gameplay and cutscenes. This role requires a veteran who can work with minimal direction, troubleshoot complex memory constraints, and provide a guiding light for external vendors and junior team members. Key Responsibilities Cinematic Artistry & Lighting Design Develop and implement sophisticated lighting schemes for characters and environments, working in close alignment with Directors and the Concept Art team to realize the project’s visual targets. Interpret color keys and concept art to recreate specific moods, utilizing direct and indirect light to tell a story through the environment. Maintain visual consistency and “The Naughty Dog Look” across vast, complex cinematic sequences. Cross-Departmental Collaboration Partner with the Level Lighting team to ensure that the transition from playable gameplay to cinematic sequences is visually fluid and grounded in the same world logic. Collaborate with VFX and Animation departments to ensure that particle effects and character performances are properly integrated with the lighting environment. Work with Programming and Technical Art to ensure cinematics run within strict memory budgets and performance targets without compromising the artistic vision. Vendor & Pipeline Management Lead and collaborate with outsource vendors and internal lighting artists, providing high-level feedback on visual looks and technical implementation. Contribute to the evolution of Naughty Dog’s proprietary lighting tools, providing feedback on workflows and training newer team members on best practices. Manage time-sensitive projects under pressure, ensuring milestones are met for high-profile global releases. Required Qualifications & Technical Skills Professional Background Experience: A minimum of 7 years of professional experience within the video game, animation, or film/VFX industry. Proven Track Record: Candidates must have at least one shipped AAA game title or an equivalent high-end film/VFX credit. Portfolio: A world-class demo reel or portfolio demonstrating mastery of light, shadow, composition, and cinematic storytelling. Core Technical Skills Software Mastery: Demonstrated expertise in Autodesk Maya. Post-Production & Grading: Proficiency in industry-standard color grading and compositing software such as Nuke, Fusion, or DaVinci Resolve. Artistic Fundamentals: An expert-level understanding of color theory, exposure, contrast, and the physical properties of shading/materials in relation to light. Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot lighting artifacts, performance bottlenecks, and technical pipeline hurdles. Leadership & Soft Skills Autonomy: The ability to take a sequence from concept to final polish with minimal supervision. Organizational Excellence: Exceptional time management skills and the ability to organize complex lighting hierarchies within a proprietary engine. Adaptability: The capacity to maintain high-quality standards under the pressure of tight production deadlines. Bonus Skills (Optional) Hands-on experience with Real-Time Engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity, or proprietary AAA engines). Proficiency in generating light-maps, pre-lighting, or baked lighting solutions. Technical scripting ability (Python, C#, etc.) to help automate or optimize lighting workflows. Benefits and Perks Naughty Dog, as part of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), offers a premier benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our “Dogs”: Competitive Compensation: An estimated base pay range of $143,700 – $160,000 USD, plus potential bonus eligibility. Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, alongside a dedicated wellness program. Retirement: 401(k) with company matching to help secure … Read more

Cinematic Lighting Artist at Naughty Dog 2026

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Cinematic Lighting Artist  Job Overview Company: Naughty Dog (Sony Interactive Entertainment) Project (Working Title): Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet Role Title: Cinematic Lighting Artist (Contingent) Employment Type: Temporary Engagement via Yoh Enterprise Solutions Location: Santa Monica, California (Hybrid / Onsite) Compensation Type: Hourly (Salaried Equivalent Available) Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States Naughty Dog, the legendary studio behind some of the most critically acclaimed titles in gaming history—including The Last of Us and Uncharted—is seeking a world-class Cinematic Lighting Artist. For nearly four decades, our “kennel” has been the birthplace of industry-defining narratives and technical breakthroughs. We are currently deep in development on our next ambitious project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and we are looking for a lighting specialist to help us define the next generation of real-time cinematic storytelling. As a Cinematic Lighting Artist at Naughty Dog, you are not just illuminating a scene; you are directing the player’s emotion. You will join a legacy of excellence, working alongside the industry’s most innovative minds to craft the evocative, character-driven atmospheres that have become our studio’s hallmark. Salary & Compensation Table (USD) Naughty Dog and Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) provide a highly competitive compensation structure for contingent talent, reflecting the specialized skills required to meet our “Naughty Dog Quality” standards. Component Estimated Range / Details Hourly Pay Rate $57.98 – $72.00 USD per hour Annual Equivalent $120,598 – $149,760 USD (Based on 40hr week) Health Benefits Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage Financial Security Matching 401(k) program Time Off Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave Employee Perks Top-tier wellness programs and Sony product discounts Bonus Eligibility Potential eligibility for performance-based bonus packages Detailed Responsibilities: The Art of the Narrative Glow At Naughty Dog, cinematics are the heartbeat of our storytelling. As a Cinematic Lighting Artist, you are responsible for the visual continuity and emotional impact of these sequences. 1. Cinematic Look Development Atmospheric Design: Develop complex lighting schemes for characters and environments, working in lockstep with Art Directors and the Concept Art team to translate 2D color keys into 3D masterpieces. Character Portraits: Utilize proprietary tools to achieve high-fidelity “hero” lighting that emphasizes performance, skin shaders, and micro-expressions during pivotal narrative moments. Mood & Tone: Recreate the mood and atmosphere defined by the script, ensuring the lighting guides the player’s focus and reinforces the narrative stakes. 2. Technical Integration & Optimization Seamless Transitions: Collaborate with the Level Lighting team to establish a smooth visual flow between active gameplay and in-game cinematics, avoiding jarring shifts in exposure or color. Budget Management: Work across departments (VFX, Environment, Tech Art) to ensure cinematic lighting runs within strict memory budgets. You must deliver peak visual quality without compromising the game’s performance or frame rate. Problem Solving: Address technical bottlenecks in the lighting pipeline, ensuring that shadows, reflections, and global illumination are technically sound and artifact-free. 3. Vendor & Pipeline Collaboration Outsource Management: Work with external vendors and lighting partners. You will provide clear feedback, technical guidance, and workflow training to ensure external work matches Naughty Dog’s internal bar. Peer Review: Actively participate in lighting reviews, giving and receiving constructive feedback to constantly elevate the studio’s visual output. Professional Skills & Qualifications We are looking for a candidate who possesses a sophisticated eye for traditional cinematography and a deep understanding of modern real-time rendering. Core Technical Skills: Experience: Minimum of 2 years in the Games, Animation, or VFX/Film industry. Shipped Credits: Experience shipping at least one AAA game title or an equivalent high-end film/VFX project. Lighting Fundamentals: An excellent mastery of direct/indirect lighting, color theory, exposure, and contrast. You should understand how light interacts with various material types (PBR). Software Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in Autodesk Maya. Post-Production Expertise: Proficiency in industry-standard color grading software such as Nuke, Fusion, or DaVinci Resolve. Professional Attributes: Artistic Interpretation: The ability to take a loose concept sketch or a verbal brief and translate it into a fully realized, three-dimensional lighting scheme. Autonomy: The ability to work with minimal direction while maintaining a dedicated attention to detail. Pressure Management: Resilience and the ability to work under the high-pressure environment of a time-sensitive AAA production schedule. Bonus Skills (The “Dog” Factor): Real-Time Engines: Previous experience with proprietary or commercial real-time engines (Unreal, Unity, etc.). Baking & Pre-Lighting: Experience generating light-maps, pre-lighting, or baked lighting solutions. Technical Scripting: Familiarity with Python or other scripting languages to improve lighting workflows. Life at the Kennel: Why Naughty Dog? Joining Naughty Dog means joining a culture that obsesses over the details. We believe that a broad range of cultural and life experiences contribute to the success of our studio. Narrative Focus: You aren’t just a technician; you are a storyteller. Every light you place helps tell the story of Intergalactic. Innovation Culture: You will work with the top creative minds in the industry, utilizing proprietary tech that pushes the PS5 and PC hardware to its limits. Diverse & Inclusive: We welcome diverse candidates and strive for an environment where every individual can thrive. Santa Monica Legacy: Work in a beautiful hybrid/onsite environment in the heart of the California gaming hub. The Application Process As part of the Naughty Dog application process, candidates are required to submit a professional Portfolio or Demo Reel. We are looking for work that shows a sophisticated understanding of cinematic composition, character lighting, and environmental storytelling. Note: Candidates may be asked to complete a lighting-specific art test to demonstrate their technical and artistic proficiency within our standards.

Naughty Dog is hiring Senior Gameplay Animator

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Job Overview Company Name: Naughty Dog / Sony Interactive Entertainment Position Title: Senior Gameplay Animator USA Base Pay Range: $126,400 – $227,000 USD Employment Type: Full-time Location: Santa Monica / Los Angeles, CA Work Model: Hybrid / On-site Incentives: Annual Bonus & Additional Incentive Plans Current Project: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet Naughty Dog, the world-renowned developer behind The Last of Us and Uncharted series, is currently seeking a Senior Gameplay Animator. Known for pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling and technical fidelity, the studio—affectionately known as “The Kennel”—is currently developing its next major title: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. This is a high-impact role requiring a blend of elite artistic sensibility and deep technical expertise. As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will be responsible for defining the movement language of characters and creatures, ensuring that every frame of animation serves both the gameplay mechanics and the narrative immersion. The Role: Innovating at the Frontier of Animation At Naughty Dog, gameplay animation is not a secondary concern; it is the core of the player’s emotional connection to the world. You will work within a highly collaborative environment, bridging the gap between the Animation, Design, and Engineering teams. Core Responsibilities 1. Systems Development & Tooling Advanced Implementation: Facilitate the creation of complex, high-quality animation systems that allow for seamless character movement. Pipeline Innovation: Streamline and innovate the animation pipeline to ensure the “Kennel” remains at the forefront of the industry. Technical Strategy: Contribute to the strategic development of internal technologies and proprietary artistic processes. 2. Animation Content & Quality High-Fidelity Creation: Develop high-quality animation content for new character behaviors and systems, implementing them directly into the game engine. Style Maintenance: Work with animation leadership to define and maintain the quality bar, ensuring the “Naughty Dog look”—characterized by weight, momentum, and emotional nuance. Troubleshooting: Analyze and resolve in-game animation implementation issues, ranging from IK solver glitches to complex state machine transitions. 3. Leadership & Mentorship Project Ownership: Take full ownership of challenging animation projects from concept to final polish. Mentoring: Provide guidance to mid-level and junior team members, fostering a culture of growth and shared knowledge. Documentation: Create thorough documentation of new techniques and workflows to build a lasting internal knowledge base. Candidate Requirements & Skills This is a senior-level position requiring a “Technical Animator” mindset—someone who can create beautiful motion while understanding exactly how that motion is computed in real-time. Professional Experience Industry Veteran: Minimum of 5+ years of professional experience in technical animation for AAA games. Proven Track Record: A portfolio demonstrating visually stunning animations across diverse genres, with a focus on realism and character-driven movement. Technical Proficiencies Programming/Scripting: Proficiency in Python, C#, or C++ is required to facilitate tool creation and pipeline automation. Engine Tools: A deep understanding of in-game animation systems, including State Machines, Blend Trees, and IK Solvers. DCC Expertise: Expert-level mastery of Maya or Motionbuilder, specifically within motion capture (mocap) and keyframe-based pipelines. Diversity, Demographics, and Inclusion in Game Development Naughty Dog and Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) have made significant strides in fostering an inclusive environment. Understanding the broader demographic landscape of the industry provides context for Naughty Dog’s commitment to diverse candidate recruitment. Industry Demographics (General Statistics) According to recent industry-wide surveys (such as those by the IGDA and various studio transparency reports): Gender Representation: In AAA game development, approximately 24% to 30% of the workforce identifies as women. Naughty Dog actively encourages female and non-binary applicants to bridge this historical gap. Ethnic & Racial Diversity (USA): White/Caucasian: ~64% Asian: ~16% Hispanic/Latinx: ~8% Black/African American: ~4% Multi-ethnic/Other: ~8% Inclusion Initiatives: PlayStation Studios, including Naughty Dog, operates several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to support Black, LGBTQ+, and female developers. Their “Fair Chance” hiring policy ensures that qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records are considered, prioritizing current skill and character over past history. Compensation, Perks, and The Naughty Dog Lifestyle Naughty Dog is famously located in the Los Angeles area, offering a competitive salary range that reflects the high cost of living and the elite skill level required. Financial Rewards Competitive Base: A wide salary band ($126k – $227k) allows for growth and recognizes specialized technical skill sets. Incentives: Eligibility for annual bonuses and other long-term incentive plans (LTIPs) based on studio and individual performance. Benefits & Wellbeing Comprehensive Health: Elite medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families. Retirement & Savings: Competitive 401(k) matching and financial planning resources. Work-Life Integration: A hybrid work model that balances the creative energy of on-site collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. Studio Culture: Known for “The Kennel” atmosphere—a place of high standards, intense creative passion, and a shared pride in producing “Game of the Year” contenders. Working Conditions: The Los Angeles Hub The position is based in the Los Angeles zone, the global epicenter of entertainment. Environment: A studio environment that prizes “attention to detail” and “character-driven” storytelling. On-Site Collaboration: While hybrid options exist, the role requires proximity to the studio to facilitate real-time collaboration with Engineering and Design teams on complex animation behaviors. Equal Opportunity & Fair Chance Statement Sony Interactive Entertainment is an Equal Opportunity Employer. They do not discriminate based on gender identity, race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. Furthermore, as a Fair Chance Employer, Naughty Dog considers qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local and federal laws, focusing on the individual’s ability to contribute to the future of play. How to Apply Naughty Dog maintains a rigorous selection process to ensure that only the most dedicated and technically proficient animators join the team. Submission Requirements: Portfolio/Demo Reel: Essential. This must showcase your technical implementation (nodes/blend trees) as well as your final artistic output. Animation Test: Shortlisted candidates will likely be asked to complete a specific animation or technical implementation test. Documentation Sample: Highlighting your ability to communicate complex systems to others. Ready to help craft the next narrative masterpiece? Join Naughty Dog and define the future of interactive animation.

Technical gameplay animator jobs – Naughty Dog

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senior technical gameplay animator jobs Overview Company: Naughty Dog (Sony Interactive Entertainment) Location: Los Angeles, CA (Hybrid / Onsite) Project: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet Experience Level: Senior (5+ years) Compensation: $126,400 — $227,500 USD (plus bonus and benefits) Join the “Naughty Dog” at one of the world’s most prestigious game development studios. Naughty Dog is currently seeking a Senior Technical Gameplay Animator jobs to help shape the future of interactive narrative and character-driven action. This is a pivotal role within our Santa Monica studio, focusing on our highly anticipated new IP, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. As a Senior Technical Gameplay Animator Jobs, you will bridge the gap between artistic vision and technical execution. You will be responsible for the “feel” of our characters, ensuring that every movement is fluid, responsive, and grounded in the evocative realism that defines our studio’s legacy. About Naughty Dog For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been a beacon of innovation in the gaming industry. From the whimsical worlds of Crash Bandicoot and Jak and Daxter to the cinematic intensity of Uncharted and the profound emotional depth of The Last of Us, our studio has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. Naughty Dog are a studio that values attention to detail, emotional resonance, and technical mastery. Our culture is built on the belief that diverse perspectives lead to better games. We invite creators from all walks of life to help us craft the next generation of masterpieces. Currently, our primary focus is the development of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, a bold new sci-fi epic. This project represents our most ambitious undertaking to date, featuring a lone bounty hunter, Jordan A. Mun, stranded on the mysterious planet of Sempiria. What You Will Do: Responsibilities & Impact In this role, you aren’t just moving bones in a rig; you are architecting the soul of character movement. Your work ensures that the player feels a direct, seamless connection to the protagonist. 1. System Architecture & Tooling Innovate Implementation: Facilitate the creation and deployment of advanced tools and techniques to build complex, high-quality animation systems. Workflow Optimization: Constantly evaluate the animation pipeline to identify bottlenecks. You will innovate and streamline processes to ensure the team can work at the highest level of efficiency without sacrificing quality. Strategic Growth: Contribute to the long-term development of internal technologies, ensuring Naughty Dog remains at the cutting edge of the industry. 2. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration The “Glue” Role: Act as the primary technical bridge between Animation, Game Design, and Engineering. Troubleshooting: Analyze and resolve complex in-game implementation issues. When a behavior doesn’t look right or a transition is jarring, you are the one who finds the solution. Defining Style: Work alongside animation leadership to define and maintain the “quality bar.” You will help ensure the animation style remains consistent across all gameplay systems. 3. Hands-On Animation & Mentorship Content Creation: Create and implement high-quality animation content in-engine to support newly developed gameplay behaviors. Project Ownership: Take the lead on challenging technical projects, seeing them from concept to final polish. Mentorship: Share your expertise with junior and mid-level team members. You will be responsible for creating technical documentation and guiding others through complex workflows. Skills & Requirements Naughty Dog are looking for a veteran who possesses both the artistic eye of an animator and the logical mind of a programmer. Experience: A minimum of 5+ years of professional experience in technical animation specifically for the gaming industry. Technical Proficiency: Strong programming skills are required. You should be proficient in Python, C#, or C++. Engine Mastery: A deep understanding of modern in-game animation tools is essential. This includes State Machines, Blend Trees, IK Solvers, and Procedural Systems. DCC Expertise: Expert-level knowledge of Maya or Motionbuilder. You should be comfortable working with both motion capture data and keyframe-based pipelines. Portfolio: A proven track record of creating visually stunning, responsive animations. A demo reel or portfolio is required for all applicants. Benefits & Compensation As a part of the Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) family, Naughty Dog offers a “top-tier” benefits package designed to support your life both inside and outside the kennel. Financial & Security Annual Bonus: Eligible for performance-based annual bonuses and incentive plans. 401(k) Matching: Comprehensive retirement savings with a company match. Insurance: Top-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage. Life & Disability: Standard life insurance and disability protection. Wellness & Lifestyle Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday schedules. Wellness Program: Dedicated programs to support physical and mental health. Sony Discounts: Enjoy coveted employee discounts on Sony hardware, electronics, and PlayStation products. Hybrid Flexibility: A modern approach to work-life balance through our hybrid working policy. The Project: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet Working on this title offers a unique challenge. Unlike the grounded, contemporary settings of our recent work, Intergalactic takes us thousands of years into the future. The Setting: Sempiria, a planet cut off from the rest of the universe for over 600 years. The Themes: A deep exploration of faith, religion, and the isolation of being alone in a hostile, alien world. The Music: Scored by Academy Award-winning composers Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. As a Technical Gameplay Animator, you will be instrumental in bringing the unique biology and physics of this sci-fi world to life. Whether it’s the way Jordan’s suit reacts to Sempiria’s atmosphere or the visceral feel of melee combat against unknown threats, your fingerprints will be on every frame. How to Apply Naughty Dog is a studio that values the “test.” Candidates should be prepared for the following: Portfolio Submission: A reel demonstrating technical animation setups and in-game implementation. Technical Animation Test: You may be asked to complete a specific task to demonstrate your proficiency with our required toolsets. Interview Rounds: Discussions with Animation, Engineering, and Design leads. Naughty Dog is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Naughty Dog is hiring Senior Gameplay Animator (IGC/ Gameplay)

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Senior Gameplay Animator (IGC/ Gameplay) Location – United States, Santa Monica, CA Ability to work hybrid from our Santa Monica, CA studio is required. For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been crafting best-selling, critically acclaimed games that constantly push the boundaries of narrative, gameplay, and technology. Naughty Dog recently released The Last of Us Part II Remastered as well as a current generation remake of The Last of Us Part I for the PS5. We’re also proud to say that The Last of Us Parts I & II are now available for the first time on PC. Currently, we’re busy at the kennel working on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and we’d love to find talented individuals to join us. Naughty Dog games have long been lauded for their evocative, character-driven stories and attention to detail. We are committed to innovation within our games and as such have curated some of the top creative and technically innovative minds in the industry. We welcome diverse candidates and believe that a broad range of cultural and life experiencescontribute to the overall well-being and success of the studio and the titles we craft together. We’d love to find an experienced gameplay animator to join us! What you’ll do: What skills you will use: Bonus Skills: As a part of the Naughty Dog application process, candidates will be expected to provide a portfolio or demo reel of their work and may be asked to complete an animation test. More Jobs

Naughty Dog is hiring Senior Technical Artist

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festybay

🎮 Senior Technical Artist – Naughty Dog (Hybrid | Santa Monica, CA) 📍 Location: Santa Monica, California (Hybrid work required)💼 Type: Full-time💰 Compensation: $138,200 – $172,700 USD (Base pay) + bonuses & incentives 🐾 About Naughty Dog For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been redefining what’s possible in video games — blending storytelling, artistry, and technology like no one else in the industry. From Uncharted to The Last of Us, our games have set new benchmarks for emotional storytelling, technical excellence, and cinematic gameplay. Recently, we’ve released The Last of Us Part II Remastered and the PS5 remake of The Last of Us Part I — now also available on PC for the first time ever 💻.Our next big adventure, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, is currently in development 🚀 — and we’re looking for talented, passionate creators to join the pack. At Naughty Dog, we believe creativity thrives in diversity and collaboration. Our studio is home to world-class artists, engineers, and storytellers united by a common mission: to craft unforgettable experiences. 🧠✨ 🎨 About the Role – Senior Technical Artist As a Senior Technical Artist, you’ll be the vital link 🧩 between the artistic and technical sides of game development. You’ll develop visual features, craft efficient tools and pipelines, and ensure that Naughty Dog’s signature visual quality runs smoothly at every frame. You’re equal parts artist and engineer — creative yet technical, aesthetic yet analytical. Your code empowers our artists to push visual storytelling to the next level, and your artistic eye ensures every pixel looks just right. If you love solving complex problems, writing elegant code, and shaping the look of world-class games — this role is for you. 🛠️ What You’ll Do ✅ Write fragment, vertex, and compute shaders to achieve the creative vision of our art team.✅ Develop advanced shading features — like skin, cloth, wetness, mud, and environmental effects 🌧️💧🌿.✅ Build and optimize toolsets, pipelines, and workflows that empower artists to deliver stunning visuals efficiently.✅ Write and maintain Python and C++ tools to automate and streamline production.✅ Contribute to real-time rendering features and cinematic effects while maintaining performance goals.✅ Drive optimization efforts, balancing fidelity and performance without compromise ⚙️.✅ Support the content team in debugging and problem-solving related to tools, assets, or performance.✅ Write clean, scalable, and long-term maintainable code — built to last for future Naughty Dog projects. 💡 What You Bring 🎯 5+ years of experience in a related technical art or graphics role, having shipped at least one major title.🎯 Expert-level skills in HLSL or GLSL, Python, and C++.🎯 A strong artistic foundation — whether in texturing, lighting, VFX, or similar fields — with a keen eye for polish and detail.🎯 A self-starter attitude, capable of thriving in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.🎯 Excellent debugging, problem-solving, and optimization abilities.🎯 Strong communication skills, able to collaborate effectively across technical and creative disciplines.🎯 A genuine passion for game visuals, innovation, and pushing boundaries. 🌟 Bonus Skills ✨ Experience with content creation tools like Houdini, Substance Designer, or Substance Painter.✨ Familiarity with QT for developing tool interfaces.✨ Previous industry presentations or publications (GDC, SIGGRAPH, etc.) are a plus.✨ A collaborative spirit and love for cinematic storytelling 🎥. 🐕 Why Join Naughty Dog? At Naughty Dog, you’re not just making games — you’re helping craft experiences that move millions of players worldwide 🌍💖. You’ll work alongside some of the most talented artists and developers in the industry, using cutting-edge tools and workflows to create emotionally resonant, visually stunning worlds. We value innovation, inclusivity, and excellence, and we’re proud to cultivate an environment that supports creative freedom and professional growth. If you’re ready to merge art and technology in a way that redefines interactive storytelling — we want you on our team! 🚀 📋 Additional Information 🏢 This is a hybrid role, requiring on-site collaboration at our Santa Monica, CA studio.🧩 As part of the hiring process, selected candidates will participate in a technical interview.🔒 Please review our Candidate Privacy Notice for details on how your personal data is handled. 💰 Compensation Range: $138,200 – $172,700 USD(Additional bonuses and incentive plans may apply) Ready to create the next generation of unforgettable worlds? 🌌 👉 Apply now and join Naughty Dog — where creativity runs wild! 🐾

Naughty Dog hiring Gameplay Animator

by
festybay

🎮 Gameplay Animator 📍 Location: Santa Monica, CA, United StatesOnsite work required (Monday–Wednesday–Friday) For nearly four decades, Naughty Dog has been shaping the landscape of storytelling in games — from Crash Bandicoot and Uncharted to The Last of Us series. With a legacy of innovation and artistry, our team continues to push the boundaries of gameplay, narrative, and technology. Following the release of The Last of Us Part I and Part II on PS5 and PC, and the remastered The Last of Us Part II, our kennel is now hard at work on our next big adventure — Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet — and we’re searching for a Gameplay Animator to join the journey. 🧩 What You’ll Do As a Gameplay Animator at Naughty Dog, you’ll bring motion and emotion to life — creating high-quality animations that make our characters feel real, responsive, and unforgettable. Your responsibilities will include: Producing high-quality animation content in Maya and implementing it seamlessly in our proprietary engine Collaborating closely with the Animation, Design, and Engineering teams to develop innovative, systemic animation workflows Taking ownership of animation features and developing creative, technical solutions Participating in motion capture shoots and refining data for gameplay Learning and applying Naughty Dog’s unique gameplay systems Utilizing engine debugging tools to identify and resolve gameplay issues alongside designers and programmers Providing constructive feedback to improve internal tools, pipelines, and animation workflows 🎨 What We’re Looking For Bachelor’s degree in Computer Animation, Computer Graphic Art, or a related field Minimum 2 years of professional experience as a Gameplay Animator or in a related animation role Strong grasp of human and animal anatomy, skeletal structures, and biomechanics Solid understanding of animation technologies — including sequencing, blending, time/space warping, and state machines Proficiency in Autodesk Maya and MotionBuilder Passion for crafting animations that serve gameplay, enhance narrative, and elevate the player experience 🏢 Work Environment Location: Santa Monica, California Schedule: Onsite three days per week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) 💰 Compensation Estimated Base Pay Range (Los Angeles area):💵 $123,600 – $154,500 USD annuallyAdditional compensation may include bonuses and incentive plans. At Naughty Dog, we believe great games are made by great teams. If you’re ready to animate unforgettable moments and help define the next chapter of our legacy — we’d love to meet you. 📩 Apply now and bring your craft to life at Naughty Dog.

Naughty Dog is Hiring – Senior Gameplay Animator (Creatures)

by
festybay

For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been redefining narrative, gameplay & technology. From The Last of Us series to Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, we create groundbreaking games loved by millions 🌍✨. We’re seeking an expert Gameplay Animator passionate about creature animation and pushing AAA standards 🚀. If you love detail, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to work on industry-defining games — this could be your next adventure! 🎯 What You’ll Do 🎬 🦖 Create high-quality creature gameplay animations in Maya & implement them in Naughty Dog’s engine📽️ Collaborate & prototype with mood boards & investigative animations🐾 Craft realistic animations for diverse creatures with attention to weight, balance & detail💡 Mentor and inspire junior animators🎥 Direct motion capture shoots & guide systemic animation workflows🤝 Work closely with design & engineering to innovate gameplay systems🛠️ Solve animation & gameplay challenges with efficiency and creativity What We’re Looking For 🔍 ✅ Minimum 5 years in the video game industry & 1 shipped AAA title as a Senior Gameplay Animator✅ Expert in Maya — layers, time/trax editor, mocap tools✅ Strong understanding of creature animation & physical motion✅ Experience in rapid prototyping & iteration✅ Excellent problem-solving & communication skills✅ Familiarity with modern animation systems (Unreal, Morpheme, Unity, etc.) Bonus Skills 🌟 💻 Python, C, C#, or C++ knowledge Why Join Naughty Dog? 🎉 ✅ Work on award-winning AAA titles✅ Collaborate with top-tier creative & technical talent✅ Competitive compensation: $139K–$173.8K USD + bonus packages✅ Comprehensive benefits package (health, wellness, 401(k), product discounts & more) 📩 Apply now & be part of crafting the next generation of unforgettable game worlds.

Naughty Dog hiring Camera Layout Artist

by
festybay

For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been creating award-winning, narrative-driven games like The Last of Us and Uncharted. We’re pushing boundaries once again with our upcoming project, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and we’re looking for a Camera Layout Artist to help bring our storytelling to life! What You’ll Do🎬 Previs and block out cinematic sequences from script to screen🎥 Hand-animate cameras for interactive & cinematic moments🕹 Support animation & design teams with in-game cameras📡 Work with mocap data to enhance storytelling💡 Provide creative solutions and final polish on camera sequences What You Bring✔ 5+ years as a Camera Layout/Previs Artist (games or film)✔ Strong Maya skills (animation, rigging, lighting, etc.)✔ Experience with motion capture data✔ A strong eye for cinematography, staging & editing✔ Detail-oriented, collaborative, and creative mindset Bonus Points✨ Experience with scripting, Photoshop, After Effects, Premiere Pro✨ Hands-on mocap set or virtual camera experience 💼 Pay Range (Hourly): $57.98 – $72.45 USD📩 Apply now with your resume + reel to join us in crafting the next generation of storytelling.