Website Pixel Toys
Job Overview
- Company Name: Pixel Toys
- Job Title: Cinematics Camera Animator
- Industry: Game Development (Mobile / AAA)
- Department: Art
- Employment Type: 6-Month Fixed Term Contract
- Location: Leamington Spa
- Work Model: Hybrid (Studio & Remote)
- Seniority Level: Mid-Level
- Required Experience: Demonstrated experience in Layout, Previz, or Cinematics
- Salary: Competitive (Based on experience)
- Reporting To: Lead & Principal Animators
Pixel Toys – Leamington Spa, Warwickshire (Hybrid)
Pixel Toys is an award-winning developer located in the historic “Silicon Spa” hub of Leamington Spa. For over a decade, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of mobile and VR gaming, delivering high-fidelity experiences that rival console quality. Our portfolio includes acclaimed titles such as Warhammer 40,000: Freeblade and Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Realm War.
Pixel Toys currently at an exhilarating turning point as we develop a brand-new game that is unlike anything we have ever attempted before. To bring this vision to life, we are seeking a highly creative and technically proficient Cinematics Camera Animator for a 6-month fixed-term contract.
Company Overview: The Pixel Toys Mission
Based in the heart of Leamington Spa, we has spent over ten years redefining what is possible on mobile devices. Our mission is to combine the accessibility of mobile gaming with the depth and visual fidelity typically reserved for PC and console titles. As a forward-thinking and innovative studio, we are constantly exploring new technologies to make our games more engaging and immersive for a global audience.
At Pixel Toys, we take pride in our progressive, inclusive, and collaborative environment. Pixel Toys believe that great art is born from a culture where everyone can be themselves and is valued for their unique contributions. We are looking for a motivated individual who shares our passion for gaming and our commitment to technical and artistic excellence.
Role Overview as Camera Animator
As a Cinematics Camera Animator, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative and visual impact of our upcoming cutting-edge mobile title. This is a highly specialized position focused on crafting dynamic, high-quality camera sequences that elevate the player experience from a standard game to a cinematic masterpiece.
You will step into a fast-paced production environment, working closely with our Lead and Principal Animators. While your primary focus is the “lens”—camera work, framing, and layout—you will also contribute to in-game and cinematic character animation. Your work will serve as the bridge between gameplay and storytelling, ensuring that every transition is seamless and every sequence is emotionally resonant.
Key Responsibilities as Camera Animator
1. Cinematic Storytelling & Layout
Design and execute compelling camera sequences that align with the game’s narrative and visual direction.
Utilize Layout and Previz techniques to block out scenes and iterate on cinematic timing.
Focus on framing, focal lengths, and camera movement to guide the player’s eye and enhance key story moments.
2. Animation Integration
Collaborate with the animation team to integrate character performances with camera movements for a cohesive cinematic experience.
Perform “quick fixes” and polishing on in-game and cinematic animations when necessary to maintain top-tier quality standards.
Ensure all cinematic assets are optimized for mobile performance without sacrificing visual fidelity.
3. Technical Implementation & Troubleshooting
Implement and test camera sequences within the Unity engine, ensuring they function correctly across various mobile hardware specifications.
Troubleshoot technical issues related to camera clipping, transitions, and engine-specific constraints.
Maintain a structured and organized workflow, ensuring all files and assets meet studio naming conventions and pipeline requirements.
4. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
Work in lockstep with Art Leads to ensure the cinematic style remains consistent across the entire project.
Communicate effectively with technical artists and programmers to ensure camera tools are functioning as intended.
Qualifications & Technical Skills as Camera Animator
The ideal candidate for this role is an artist who possesses the soul of a cinematographer and the technical precision of a game developer.
Required Skills:
Deep Understanding of Cinematography: You must have a strong eye for composition, lighting, and dynamic camera work.
Animation Principles: A solid grasp of weight, timing, and squash-and-stretch is essential, even when focusing on camera work.
Previz/Layout Experience: Proven professional experience in Layout, Previz, or Cinematics for games, television, or film.
Unity Proficiency: Hands-on experience working within the Unity engine (or a similar game engine) is required for this role.
3D Generalist Knowledge: Broad CG knowledge and 3D generalist skills to assist with scene setup and minor asset adjustments.
Preferred Qualifications:
Mobile Experience: Familiarity with the specific constraints and opportunities of developing high-fidelity visuals for mobile/tablet platforms.
Passion for Media: A genuine enthusiasm for TV, film, and modern game development trends.
Adaptability: The ability to pivot between creative experimentation and technical polish within a fixed-term production cycle.
Benefits and Perks at Pixel Toys as Camera Animator
Pixel Toys offers a progressive work environment with a benefits package that supports both your professional growth and personal well-being:
Competitive Salary: Reviewed annually to ensure we attract and retain top talent.
Generous Leave: 25 days of annual leave (excluding bank holidays), plus up to 3 additional “Duvet Days” for long service.
Health & Wellness: Private Medical Insurance (including optical and dental) and quarterly wellness days featuring on-site massages and health initiatives.
Financial Protection: Company Pension scheme and Death in Service benefit.
Culture & Socials: Regular studio socials, including legendary summer and Christmas parties.
Flexibility: Flexi-time working hours and a hybrid work model to support a healthy work-life balance.
Application Process
Recruitment at Pixel Toys is based on a combination of skills, professional experience, and alignment with our mission and values.
Portfolio Review: Your application must include a portfolio or showreel showcasing your cinematography, camera animation, and layout skills.
Initial Interview: A conversation with our recruitment team to discuss your background and interest in the role.
Technical Assessment: (If applicable) A task designed to demonstrate your proficiency in camera work and animation.
Final Interview: A technical and cultural fit interview with the Lead and Principal Animators.
To apply for this job please visit pixeltoysltd.bamboohr.com.