Next Level Games Hiring Prop Artist / Animator, 2026

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

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

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:

1. Are currently residing in the Metro Vancouver area.
2. Already hold the legal right to work in Canada (Citizenship, Permanent Residency, or valid Open Work Permit). We are not providing relocation or sponsorship for this temporary role.

Diversity & Inclusion Commitment

Next Level Games is committed to building diverse teams that reflect a wide range of skills, perspectives, and experiences. The studio believes that inclusivity is essential to innovation and creative excellence.

Applicants requiring accommodations during the hiring process are encouraged to reach out via the official careers contact. The company is dedicated to providing support to ensure an accessible and equitable recruitment experience.

Why Join This Role

• Opportunity to work under the global legacy of Nintendo Co., Ltd.
• Contribute to high-impact, globally recognized game titles
• Work in a collaborative and innovation-driven environment
• Develop expertise across modelling, rigging, and animation disciplines
• Access industry-leading tools, mentorship, and career growth opportunities

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply directly through the official careers channel of Next Level Games. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further steps.