Motion Graphics Artist at Rockstar Games | NYC 2026
Job Overview Job Title: Motion Graphics Artist Department: Video Production / Motion Graphics Team Location: Downtown Manhattan, New York City (In-Office) Employment Type: Full-Time Base Salary: $70,000 – $90,000 USD per year Total Compensation: Performance bonuses, potential equity, and comprehensive benefits package Education: Bachelor’s degree in Design, Animation, or a related field Experience: 5+ years of professional industry experience Rockstar Games is seeking a visionary Motion Graphics Artist to join our elite Video Production Department at our global headquarters in New York City. This role is not merely about technical execution; it is about defining the visual language of the most iconic entertainment properties in the world. As a key member of our creative engine, you will bridge the gap between cinematic storytelling and graphic design, ensuring that every frame reflects the “Rockstar” standard of excellence. The Role & Departmental Mission At Rockstar Games, we do not just release products; we launch cultural milestones. The Video Production Department is the guardian of the brand’s visual identity. Our Motion Graphics Artist Team is responsible for the “glue” that binds our narratives together. Whether it is the sleek interface of a high-stakes heist trailer, the visceral typography of a social media teaser, or the immersive title sequences for a cinematic campaign, your work will be seen by millions of players globally. As a Motion Graphics Artist, you will operate within a high-velocity, highly collaborative environment. You will be expected to push the boundaries of 2D and 3D design, utilizing industry-standard tools and proprietary workflows to create assets that are as polished as the games themselves. Comprehensive Responsibilities as Motion Graphics Artist 1. Creative Execution and Production Asset Creation: Design and animate high-fidelity 2D and 3D motion graphics for a wide array of marketing materials, including game trailers, TV commercials, and cinema-grade advertisements. Narrative Integration: Work closely with directors to ensure that motion graphics enhance the storytelling rather than distracting from it. This includes developing transitions, overlays, and UI elements that feel native to the specific game world. Technical Versatility: Seamlessly pivot between different artistic styles—from gritty and realistic to sleek and stylized—depending on the project’s creative direction. Collaboration and Pipeline Management Cross-Functional Teamwork: Engage with other artists (Video Editors, Technical Directors, and Sound Designers) to break down project requirements and establish efficient production timelines. Feedback Loops: Take constructive criticism from Creative Directors and Producers, iterating on designs with speed and precision to meet the unified vision of the project. Standardization: Assist in maintaining a clean, organized, and scalable pipeline, ensuring that project files are easily accessible and interpretable by other team members. 3. Quality Control and Versioning Technical Precision: Maintain an obsessive attention to detail regarding frame rates, color spaces, and resolution requirements across different platforms (Console, PC, Web). Global Adaptation: Oversee the “versioning” process, adapting final assets for international markets. This involves localized text integration, legal disclaimer formatting, and platform-specific aspect ratio adjustments. Technical Requirements & Qualifications To be successful in this role, candidates must demonstrate a mastery of both the creative “why” and the technical “how.” Core Academic and Professional Background Formal Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Motion Design, Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience will be considered for exceptional candidates. Industry Tenure: Minimum of 5 years of experience in a professional post-production house, gaming studio, or high-level creative agency. Software Mastery Adobe After Effects: You should be an expert in After Effects, including advanced compositing, expression-based animation, and third-party plugin integration (e.g., Trapcode Suite, Optical Flares). Cinema 4D (C4D): Deep proficiency in 3D modeling, lighting, and animation within C4D is non-negotiable. Render Engines: Fluency in Octane or Redshift is required. You must understand how to optimize render settings for both speed and quality. Professional Competencies Post-Production Fluency: A comprehensive understanding of the entire post-production lifecycle, from storyboard to final color grade and delivery. Organizational Prowess: Ability to manage complex projects with hundreds of assets while maintaining a clear file structure and naming convention. Adaptability: The ability to remain “fluid” in your creative approach, responding to shifting deadlines and evolving creative briefs without compromising quality. The “Rockstar” Edge (Pluses) While the following are not mandatory, they will significantly distinguish a candidate from the pool: Title Design: Experience in creating high-end Film or Television title sequences that demonstrate a sophisticated sense of typography and pacing. Style Framing: The ability to illustrate and design “style frames” during the pre-visualization phase to sell a concept to stakeholders. Creative Direction: A history of not just executing tasks, but contributing to the conceptual development of a campaign. Compensation, Benefits, and Culture Salary and Financial Incentives The base pay for this role is between $70,000 and $90,000 USD per year. Rockstar Games utilizes a performance-based philosophy. Final compensation is determined by: Individual Expertise: Specific depth in 3D rendering or specialized motion design. Market Location: Factors specific to the NYC labor market. Performance Metrics: Potential for discretionary bonuses based on individual and departmental success. The “Rockstar” Workplace Inclusive Environment: We are committed to a diverse workforce. We believe that the best creative work comes from a variety of perspectives and backgrounds. Location: Our Downtown Manhattan office is a hub of innovation, situated in the heart of NYC’s creative district. This is an in-office position, fostering real-time collaboration and a high-energy team culture. Health and Wellness: Full-time employees have access to a robust suite of medical, dental, and vision insurance, alongside financial planning resources and retirement benefits. Application Guidelines Rockstar Games is an “at-will” employer. We are looking for candidates who are passionate about the medium and dedicated to their craft. Submission Requirements Resume: A concise, professional history of your work and technical skills. Cover Letter: A brief explanation of why you are a fit for Rockstar Games specifically. Portfolio/Demo Reel: Mandatory. Applications without a link to a professional portfolio or motion reel will not be reviewed. We are looking for work that demonstrates high-end 3D integration, rhythmic editing, and aesthetic sophistication. Equal Opportunity Statement Rockstar Games is an equal opportunity employer. … Read more