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IT Manager job at Next Level Games (NLG), 2026

IT Manager job at Next Level Games (NLG), 2026

Next Level Games (NLG), a premier developer and wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., is seeking a strategic and composed IT Manager to lead our infrastructure team in Vancouver. In the world of AAA game development, technology is the silent engine that drives creativity. From managing the massive data pipelines required for high-fidelity animation to ensuring the ironclad security of unreleased Nintendo intellectual property, the IT department is the backbone of our studio. We are looking for a leader who moves beyond “fixing computers” to “owning outcomes”—a professional who can provide a stable, secure, and scalable environment where our developers can do their best work without friction. Job Overview: IT Manager Feature Details Company Name Next Level Games (A subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd.) Job Title IT Manager Primary Location Vancouver, BC, Canada (On-site 5 days/week) Employment Type Full-Time Level Manager / Supervisor Annual Salary Range $125,000 – $175,000 CAD Reports To Studio Director of Technology Core Focus Leadership, Strategy, Security, and Operational Readiness The Culture: Why Next Level Games? For over 20 years, Next Level Games has been a hub of innovation in the Pacific Northwest. Our portfolio is a testament to our craft, featuring titles like Super Mario Strikers, Punch-Out!!, Luigi’s Mansion 3, and Mario Strikers™: Battle League. Since becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo in 2021, we have integrated the legendary quality standards of our parent company with the agile, collaborative spirit of a boutique studio. At NLG, we believe that success is a team sport. We place careful consideration into building an environment where everyone—from the IT department to the Art team—feels welcome, respected, and empowered. We avoid “hero culture” in favor of sustainable, predictable systems that allow our employees to have a life outside of work while achieving world-class goals. The Role: What You’ll Be Doing As the IT Manager, you are the primary point of accountability for the studio’s technical infrastructure. This is a leadership-first role. While you must possess a deep technical background to make informed decisions, your daily focus will be on direction, decision-making, and people management rather than hands-on individual contribution. 1. Team Leadership & Fostering Accountability You will lead a talented IT team, providing them with the clarity and support they need to excel. 2. Strategic Operational Oversight You will partner closely with the IT Systems Architect to guide the studio’s technical direction. 3. Studio-Wide Partnership IT at NLG is not a silo; it is a service partner. 4. Planning & Future-Proofing In a rapidly evolving industry, you must think 12 to 24 months ahead. Who We Are Looking For: Qualifications We are seeking a “steady hand at the wheel”—someone who brings technical authority and a service-oriented mindset to the table. Why You’ll Love Working Here We provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial, physical, and mental well-being. Financial & Retirement Health & Lifestyle The “Nintendo” Experience The Impact of Your Role The games we create at Next Level Games bring joy to millions of people around the world. As our IT Manager, you are the architect of the environment that makes this joy possible. You ensure the lights stay on, the data stays safe, and the developers have the tools they need to make history. IT Manager job at Next Level Games (NLG), 2026 Apply now See open roles Explore More Trending jobs

Hiring Prop Artist / Animator at Next Level Games

Hiring Prop Artist Animator at Next Level Games

The world of Nintendo is built on detail. From the rattling chandeliers in a haunted mansion to the high-tech gadgets on a futuristic soccer pitch, the “props” of a game are what transform a static environment into a living, breathing world. Next Level Games (NLG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., is looking for a versatile and creative Prop Artist/Animator to join our elite development team in Vancouver. This unique hybrid role sits at the heart of our environmental storytelling. We aren’t just looking for someone who can model a chair; we are looking for someone who can model that chair, rig it to break, and animate its debris to fly across the room in a way that feels distinctly “Nintendo.” If you have a passion for the technical side of modeling and the expressive side of animation, this is your chance to make a tangible impact on world-class titles. Job Overview: Prop Artist / Animator Category Specification Company Name Next Level Games (Nintendo Co., Ltd. Subsidiary) Official Job Title Prop Artist / Animator Primary Location Vancouver, BC, Canada (Metro Vancouver residency required) Employment Type Temporary (Project-based contract) Experience Level Mid-Level (3–4 Years) Annual Salary Range $65,000 – $85,000 CAD Primary Software Autodesk Maya Core Skills Modeling, Rigging, Prop Animation, Env Art Who We Are: The Next Level Legacy For over 20 years, Next Level Games has been synonymous with quality, creativity, and a touch of whimsy. Our portfolio includes some of the most beloved entries in the Nintendo catalog, such as Super Mario Strikers, Punch-Out!!, Luigi’s Mansion 3, and Mario Strikers™: Battle League. As part of the Nintendo family, we uphold a “Quality First” philosophy. However, we believe that high-quality games are the byproduct of a high-quality work environment. Our studio culture is rooted in collaboration, inclusivity, and fun. We work hard to ensure every team member feels welcome and empowered to contribute their unique perspective to our shared goals. The Role: What You’ll Be Doing As a Prop Artist/Animator, your mission is to breathe life into the inanimate. You will be a bridge between the Environment Art team and the Animation team, ensuring that every interactive or moving element in our game worlds is aesthetically pleasing and technically sound. 1. Collaborative World Building You will work side-by-side with Level Designers and Environment Artists to dissect the gameplay needs of a specific stage. 2. Full-Spectrum Asset Creation Unlike traditional siloed roles, you will own the entire lifecycle of a prop: 3. Technical Artistry You will use your “technical eye” to inform modeling decisions. By understanding how an object needs to move (rigging/animation), you can preemptively adjust the mesh topology to avoid deformation issues. This proactive approach saves time and ensures a higher level of polish in the final product. 4. Workflow & Pipeline Standards Working in tandem with the Environment Art and Rigging departments, you will help establish and maintain best practices. Your goal is to ensure that the assets you produce are optimized for the game engine and easy for other developers to work with. Who We Are Looking For We need a “hands-on” creator who is as comfortable in a vertex editor as they are in a graph editor. The ideal candidate has a balanced portfolio that showcases both structural modeling and fluid animation. Note: Your application must include a link to your art portfolio or animation reel to be considered. We want to see how you move things! The Compensation & Benefits Package We value the talent our employees bring to the table and provide a comprehensive benefits package to match. Salary & Financial Security Holistic Well-being Studio Culture & Growth At Next Level Games, you aren’t just making a game; you’re making memories for millions of players worldwide. Every prop you animate adds a layer of magic to the Nintendo universe. If you are a mid-level artist looking to take your career to the “Next Level,” we can’t wait to see your reel. Hiring Prop Artist / Animator at Next Level Games Apply now See open roles Also Check Playrix Jobs Explore More Jobs

Character Rigger job at Next Level Games, 2026

Character Rigger job at Next Level Games, 2026

Welcome to a pivotal role at the intersection of art and engineering. Next Level Games (NLG), a premier developer and wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., is seeking a visionary Senior Technical Artist – Character Rigger to join our award-winning team in Vancouver. This isn’t just a rigging job; it is an invitation to help define the physical language of Nintendo’s most iconic characters. From the frantic energy of Mario Strikers to the atmospheric charm of Luigi’s Mansion, our rigs are the literal backbone of the player experience. We are looking for a technical leader who can bridge the gap between creative intent and performance-heavy execution. Position Overview: Character Rigger Feature Details Company Name Next Level Games (A subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd.) Job Title Senior Technical Artist – Character Rigger Primary Location Vancouver, BC, Canada (Relocation or local residency required) Employment Type Temporary (Project-based contract) Experience Level Senior / Experienced (5+ Years) Annual Salary Range $100,000 – $130,000 CAD Core Software Autodesk Maya, Python (API), Perforce Industry Focus AAA Console Gaming The Next Level Culture: Who We Are For two decades, Next Level Games has been a cornerstone of the Vancouver game development scene. Our journey has been defined by a commitment to excellence and a deep-seated passion for the craft. In 2021, we officially joined the Nintendo family, further solidifying our mission to create world-class experiences for a global audience. At NLG, we don’t just build games; we build environments. We believe that the best creative work happens when people feel safe, included, and empowered to have fun. Our studio is built on the foundation of collaboration. You won’t be working in a silo; you will be part of a multi-disciplinary unit where your voice matters as much as your technical scripts. What You’ll Be Doing: The Technical Mandate As a Senior Character Rigger, your influence will be felt across the entire production pipeline. Your primary goal is to provide animators with the tools they need to bring characters to life while ensuring those characters perform flawlessly within the hardware constraints of the Nintendo Switch. 1. Asset Preparation & Standardization You will be the gatekeeper of quality for character and prop assets. This involves working closely with modelers to ensure that topology is optimized for deformation. You understand that a beautiful sculpt is only as good as its ability to move, and you will provide the technical guidance necessary to ensure shoulders don’t collapse and faces remain expressive. 2. Advanced Rigging Techniques We expect our Senior Technical Artists – Character Rigger to be at the cutting edge of the industry. You will implement: 3. Physics and Simulations Characters are more than just bone structures. You will leverage your deep understanding of: 4. Tool Development and Pipeline Optimization Efficiency is key to a healthy production cycle. You won’t just use existing tools; you will build new ones. By leveraging Python and the Maya API, you will automate repetitive tasks, create custom UI for animators, and streamline the transfer of data between departments. Your work will directly mitigate the risk of work loss during rig iterations. 5. Cross-Departmental Collaboration A Senior Technical Artist acts as a “universal translator.” You will: Who We Are Looking For: Requirements & Skills as Character Rigger The ideal candidate is a blend of a meticulous engineer and a sensitive artist. We need someone who understands the “why” behind a movement as much as the “how” of the code. Mandatory: All applicants must provide a link to an art portfolio or animation reel demonstrating their rigging work, specifically showing deformations and control setups. Why You’ll Love Working at Next Level Games Next Level Games believe in taking care of our people so they can focus on what they love. Our benefits package is designed to support every aspect of your life. Financial & Professional Rewards Health & Well-being The “Nintendo” Perks Important Application Details Work Eligibility: At this time, we are only considering applicants who currently possess valid work authorization for Canada. Applicants should be residing in, or willing to relocate to, the Metro Vancouver area. Diversity and Inclusion: Next Level Games is committed to building a diverse team. We recognize that different perspectives lead to better games. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, gender, orientation, or disability. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please reach out to careers@nextlevelgames.com. The Impact of Your Role When you join Next Level Games, you aren’t just another employee; you become a guardian of the Nintendo legacy. Every rig you build contributes to the “magic” that players feel when they pick up a controller. If you are ready to use your technical skills to bring joy to millions of people, we want to hear from you. Character Rigger job at Next Level Games, 2026 Apply now See open roles Explore More Trending jobs

Next Level Games Hiring Prop Artist / Animator, 2026

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Next Level Games (NLG) is not just a game studio; it is a cornerstone of the Nintendo family. For over two decades, we have been the creative force behind some of the most beloved titles in the Nintendo universe. Based in the vibrant tech hub of Vancouver, British Columbia, we specialize in crafting high-quality, award-winning experiences that resonate with fans across the globe. From the haunting atmosphere of Luigi’s Mansion 3 to the high-octane energy of Mario Strikers™: Battle League, our portfolio reflects a commitment to excellence, innovation, and, above all, fun. We are currently seeking a talented and versatile Prop Artist/Animator at the intermediate level to join our world-class development team. This is a unique hybrid role that sits at the intersection of environmental storytelling and dynamic movement. If you are a technical artist with a passion for rigging, modeling, and breathing life into inanimate objects, we want to hear from you. Next Level Games Job Overview Category Details Company Name Next Level Games Parent Company Nintendo Co., Ltd. Job Title Prop Artist / Animator (Intermediate) Department Environment Art & Animation Location Vancouver Employment Type Temporary (Contract-Based) Experience Level Mid-Level (3–4 Years Experience) Salary Range CAD $65,000 – $85,000 annually (subject to experience and qualifications) Work Eligibility Must be authorized to work in Canada and currently reside in Metro Vancouver Portfolio Requirement Mandatory (Art Portfolio or Animation Reel) Company Overview Next Level Games is a premier game development studio and a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd.. With over two decades of experience, the studio has established a reputation for delivering high-quality, award-winning titles that resonate with global audiences. The studio has contributed to some of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises, including: Luigi’s Mansion 3 Punch-Out!! Mario Strikers Charged Metroid Prime: Federation Force The organization prides itself on fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and creativity-driven environment, where innovation and teamwork are central to success. Employees are encouraged to contribute ideas, grow professionally, and play an active role in shaping engaging gaming experiences. Role Summary Next Level Games is currently seeking a skilled Prop Artist / Animator (Intermediate Level) to join its Vancouver-based development team. This role is designed for a versatile professional who combines 3D modelling, rigging, and animation expertise to enhance environmental storytelling and gameplay immersion. As a Prop Artist/Animator, you will be responsible for creating dynamic, interactive environmental assets that contribute directly to gameplay mechanics and player experience. You will collaborate closely with Level Designers, Environment Artists, and Animation teams to ensure all props are both visually compelling and functionally aligned with gameplay objectives. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates who are passionate about interactive storytelling, stylized animation, and game production pipelines, and who are eager to contribute to globally recognized gaming franchises. Key Responsibilities as Prop artist/Animator Asset Creation & Animation Design, model, rig, and animate a wide range of environmental props and interactive elements. Ensure assets meet both artistic and technical requirements for integration into gameplay systems. Create animations that enhance environmental storytelling and player interaction. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with Level Designers to understand gameplay mechanics and environment requirements. Partner with Environment Artists to maintain visual consistency across levels. Collaborate with Rigging and Animation teams to ensure smooth asset functionality and animation pipelines. Technical Contribution Apply strong understanding of animation and rigging principles to inform modelling decisions. Develop assets that are optimized for real-time rendering and performance. Contribute to improving workflows and pipeline efficiency within the environment and animation teams. Pipeline & Best Practices Follow established 3D production pipelines and studio standards. Help define and refine best practices for prop creation, rigging, and animation. Ensure assets are properly prepared for integration into the game engine. Creative Input Bring creativity and innovation to prop design and animation. Contribute ideas that enhance gameplay immersion and player experience. Demonstrate a passion for game design and environmental storytelling. Required Qualifications for Prop Artist/Animator Professional Experience 3–4 years of experience in: (Environment Art, Prop Art , Animation) Alternatively, at least 2 shipped game titles in a similar role. Technical Skills Proficiency in: Autodesk Maya (modelling, rigging, animation) Strong understanding of: 3D modelling workflows Animation principles Rigging systems Familiarity with real-time game pipelines and asset optimization techniques. Pipeline Knowledge Solid understanding of game development pipelines and best practices. Experience working in collaborative production environments. Ability to create assets that integrate seamlessly into existing workflows. Preferred Attributes Passion for video games and interactive experiences. Experience working on stylized or character-driven game projects. Ability to adapt to different artistic styles and technical constraints. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Soft Skills & Work Ethic Effective communication and teamwork abilities. Hands-on, proactive approach to development tasks. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage priorities. Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and grow. Ability to work efficiently in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. Work Environment & Culture at Next Level Games Next Level Games fosters a team-oriented and inclusive workplace culture. The studio emphasizes collaboration as a key driver of success, ensuring that every team member contributes meaningfully to project outcomes. Employees benefit from: A supportive and inclusive work environment Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development A culture that values creativity, diversity, and innovation Compensation & Benefits Benefit Category Details Salary CAD $65,000 – $85,000 annually Performance Bonus Discretionary bonus program Health Benefits Comprehensive health coverage Mental Health Support Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Financial & Legal Support Advisory services included Paid Leave Competitive annual leave policy Employee Perks Access to in-studio gym and media library Community Activities Participation in internal clubs (games, sports, etc.) Employee Discounts Discounted Nintendo products and merchandise Compensation & Eligibility The hiring range for this position is $65,000 to $85,000 CAD per annum. The final offer will be calculated based on your specific blend of skills, professional experience, and education. Residency Requirement: Please note that at this time, we are only considering applicants who: Are currently residing in the Metro Vancouver area. Already hold the legal right to work in Canada (Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or valid Open … Read more

🌟 Next Level Games is Hiring: Lighting Artist

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About UsNext Level Games, a proud subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., has been crafting award-winning titles for over 20 years. From Super Mario Strikers and Punch-Out!! to Luigi’s Mansion 3 and Mario Strikers™: Battle League, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable gaming experiences for players worldwide. At NLG, collaboration is at the heart of our success. We strive to build an inclusive, fun, and creative environment where every team member thrives while working toward shared goals. The RoleWe’re seeking a Lighting Artist to bring Nintendo’s beloved worlds to life. You’ll collaborate closely with Environment, Prop, and Tech Artists, as well as the Art Director, to craft visually stunning and gameplay-focused lighting across both environments and cinematics. What You’ll Do🔹 Set lighting benchmarks and share best practices with the team🔹 Light environments and cinematics to enhance mood and gameplay clarity🔹 Collaborate with Environment Artists for consistency across levels🔹 Improve lighting systems, pipelines, and workflows🔹 Mentor and support other Lighting Artists What We’re Looking For✔ 3+ years of lighting experience, with at least one shipped title✔ Strong technical skills and engine proficiency (Unreal or similar)✔ Expertise in real-time dynamic lighting Bonus Skills✨ Deep knowledge of lighting/shadowing techniques (radiosity, ray tracing, HDRI, lightmaps, vertex lighting)✨ Experience with post-processing and tone mapping✨ Strong grasp of composition, colour, and visual storytelling✨ Great communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills Why You’ll Love It Here💼 Competitive salary ($74,000–$93,000 CAD) + performance bonuses🏥 Comprehensive health coverage + Employee Assistance Program🏋️ Access to in-studio gym & extensive games/book library🎮 Discounted Nintendo products & merchandise🤝 Inclusive, supportive culture with growth opportunities🎲 Join fun committees – from board games to sports! EligibilityWe’re currently considering applicants with existing work eligibility in Canada, ideally those residing in or open to relocating to Metro Vancouver. 📩 Interested? Apply now and be part of Nintendo’s legacy of creating award-winning games loved worldwide.

🎮 Next Level Games Hiring: Mid Level Lighting Artist 🎮

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At Next Level Games, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo, we’ve been creating award-winning titles like Luigi’s Mansion 3 and Mario Strikers: Battle League for 20+ years. Now, we’re looking for a Lighting Artist to help bring Nintendo’s beloved worlds to life! 🎮✨ 🔦 What You’ll Do: Light environments & cinematics to enhance gameplay and storytelling Establish lighting benchmarks and improve pipelines Collaborate with Environment, Prop & Tech Artists to ensure visual consistency Use light creatively for immersion & gameplay clarity Mentor and guide other Lighting Artists 🎯 What We’re Looking For: 3+ years’ experience in Lighting (with at least one shipped game/project) Strong technical skills with Unreal Engine (or similar) Knowledge of dynamic lighting, HDRI, ray-tracing, lightmaps & postprocessing Strong sense of composition, color, and visual storytelling Team player with great communication & problem-solving skills 💎 Why You’ll Love Working Here: Competitive salary $74,000 – $93,000 CAD + benefits Performance bonus, health coverage & EAP support In-studio gym, media library, and employee store discounts Inclusive, fun, and growth-oriented culture A chance to shape worlds for Nintendo fans worldwide 🌍 👉 If you’re passionate about lighting and storytelling in games, this is your opportunity to join a studio that values creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

🎮 Next Level Games Hiring: Senior Lighting Artist 🎮

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📍 Location: Metro Vancouver, Canada (Work eligibility & relocation required) About Us Next Level Games, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nintendo Co., Ltd., has been developing award-winning games for 20 years. Our titles include Luigi’s Mansion 3, Mario Strikers™, Punch-Out!!, and Metroid Prime Federation Force. At NLG, we believe success comes from working in harmony. We nurture an inclusive, fun environment where everyone contributes to creating unforgettable gaming experiences. What You’ll Do Establish lighting benchmarks and share best practices across the team. Light environments and cinematics with creativity and clarity. Collaborate with Environment, Prop, Tech Artists, and the Art Director. Develop and improve lighting systems and processes. Ensure consistency and quality across all levels. Provide guidance and mentorship to other Lighting Artists. What We’re Looking For 3+ years’ experience in lighting, with at least one shipped title. Proficiency with Unreal Engine (or similar). Strong technical understanding of runtime dynamic lighting. Solid grasp of lighting & shadow techniques (radiosity, ray-tracing, HDRI, lightmaps). Knowledge of post-processing, tone mapping, composition, and color theory. Excellent communication & collaboration skills. Why You’ll Love Working Here 💰 Competitive salary: $74,000–$93,000 CAD annually 🎁 Performance bonus program + health coverage 🧘 Employee Assistance Program (mental health, financial, legal support) 🏋️ In-studio gym + extensive media library (games & books) 🎲 Join staff committees – board games, sports & more 🎮 Employee discounts on Nintendo products & merchandise 🌱 Inclusive workplace with growth opportunities 📩 How to ApplySend your application to careers@nextlevelgames.com ⚠️ Please note: Only candidates with work eligibility in Canada and those already in or willing to relocate to Metro Vancouver will be considered.