Gameplay Animator job at EA SPORTS FC,Vancouver 2026

As a Gameplay Animator for EA SPORTS FC, you will be at the epicenter of sports innovation. This role is not just about making characters move; it is about pioneering the future of “The World’s Game.” You will work at the intersection of high-fidelity artistry and cutting-edge technology, utilizing Motion Matching and Machine Learning (ML) to create the most authentic football experience ever seen in interactive entertainment.

Based in the vibrant tech hub of Vancouver, British Columbia, you will join a team of industry veterans dedicated to pushing the boundaries of realism and responsiveness.

Job Overview: Gameplay Animator

The Role: Pioneering Next-Gen Animation

The animation landscape is shifting from traditional state-machine logic to data-driven, procedural, and AI-assisted systems. As a Gameplay Animator at EA SPORTS, you are the architect of this transition. Your primary focus will be the “end-to-end” lifecycle of animation—from the initial spark of a motion capture session to the final, seamless implementation in the game engine.

Core Responsibilities

1. Data-Driven Implementation

• Curate and Edit: Process massive datasets of high-fidelity motion capture. You won’t just “clean” data; you will curate it to feed complex Motion Matching databases.

• Machine Learning Integration: Collaborate with technical teams to review and refine animation results generated by AI models. You will provide the “human eye” needed to ensure ML outputs meet the rigorous standards of EA SPORTS authenticity.

2. Tool and Pipeline Innovation

• R&D Collaboration: Participate in Research and Development projects involving procedural runtime systems.

• Pipeline Development: Use your proficiency in Python to help design and automate tools that empower other animators and designers, reducing friction in the creative workflow.

3. Directing the Vision

• Mocap Mastery: Take responsibility for directing motion capture actors to ensure the data captured aligns with specific gameplay mechanics.

• Cross-Domain Synergy: Work side-by-side with Software Engineers to solve unique architectural challenges and with Game Designers to ensure the “feel” of the controller matches the fluidity of the on-screen movement.

Qualifications and Expertise

We are seeking a “Technical Artist” hybrid—someone who understands the soul of a performance but possesses the logic of a programmer.

Technical Requirements

• AAA Experience: A proven track record in gameplay animation for large-scale titles, specifically with experience in Motion Matching and procedural solutions.

• Software Mastery: Expert-level knowledge of Autodesk Maya and MotionBuilder.

• Scripting: Proficiency in Python is essential for navigating and improving our modern animation pipelines.

• Foundational Skills: A deep, intuitive understanding of animation principles (timing, weight, anticipation) and human anatomy/biomechanics.

Soft Skills

• Problem-Solving: The ability to “debug” an animation—identifying why a transition feels “off” and whether the fix lies in the data, the code, or the blending logic.

• Collaborative Spirit: EA SPORTS FC is a massive undertaking; the ability to communicate effectively across different departments (QA, Engineering, Art) is paramount.

The Vancouver Studio Experience

The Burnaby/Vancouver campus is one of EA’s flagship locations. It features state-of-the-art motion capture studios, a full-sized soccer pitch, and an environment designed to foster creativity.

Hybrid Culture

We believe in the power of face-to-face collaboration. Our 3-day on-site model (Tuesday through Thursday) allows teams to brainstorm and iterate in person while providing the flexibility of remote work for the remainder of the week.

Diversity and Inclusion Statistics

EA is committed to a diverse workforce. Based on our 2024–2025 global insights, we continue to strive for representation that reflects our global player base:

• Gender: Our technical and creative teams are seeing a steady increase in gender diversity, with women and non-binary professionals making up approximately 31% of more recent hiring cohorts.

• Ethnicity: We are actively diversifying our talent pool; while historical data showed a majority Caucasian workforce (approx. 75%), recent recruitment initiatives have significantly increased representation from Asian, Black, and Latinx communities to ensure “The World’s Game” is built by the world.

Compensation, Benefits, and Wellness

At EA Sports FC, compensation is viewed holistically. While the base salary is competitive ($91,100 – $126,900 CAD), the total rewards package is designed to support your life inside and outside the studio.

Financial and Career Growth

• Annual Salary: Structured ranges based on experience and geographic location.

• Bonus & Equity: Many roles are eligible for annual performance bonuses and stock grants (RSUs).

• Retirement: A robust retirement savings plan with company matching.

Health and Family

• Comprehensive Coverage: Extended health, dental, and vision insurance from day one.

• Parental Leave: We offer a 100% base salary “top-up” for new parents (12 weeks for birth parents; 4 weeks for parental/adoption leave).

• Paid Time Off: 3 weeks of vacation to start, plus 10 dedicated sick days per year and additional studio “recharge” breaks.

Perks of the Game

• Free Games: Access to the EA library to keep you connected to the products we build.

• Wellness Programs: Mental health support, fitness reimbursements, and on-site amenities.

How to Apply

Portfolio Requirement: All candidates must submit a digital portfolio or demo reel. We are looking for:

1. Examples of gameplay animation (in-engine).

2. Demonstrations of technical implementation (State Machines, Motion Matching setups).

3. Any Python-based tools or scripts you’ve authored to improve workflows.

Electronic Arts is an equal opportunity employer. We value the unique perspectives you bring to the table and are eager to see how your creativity can help us define the next generation of football.