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Cloud Imperium Games

Technical Animator

Manchester
Posted about 21 hours ago
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About Us

We are a crowdfunded company and have a dedicated and enthusiastic community of backers who are helping us create the “Best Damn Space Sim Ever”. We want to build the best we can deliver and we believe wholeheartedly in the value of exceptional diverse talent. Founded in 2012 by renowned game developer Chris Roberts, Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) is one of the largest independent studios globally, dedicated to delivering next-generation AAA experiences. We think outside the box, encourage creativity, and develop ground-breaking technology that raises the bar for the gaming industry and our community.

About the Role

Join an industry-leading team of veterans building the pinnacle of animation pipelines and technologies. As a Technical Animator III, you'll bridge the gap between technical innovation and creative expression—making highly complex systems accessible and empowering for artists and animators across the company. Your work spans the full spectrum of animation technology: next-gen facial and body rigs, Maya pipeline development, cross-platform deformation systems, version control workflows, external tool integration, and in-engine implementation. If it moves in our games, you'll help make it possible.

What You'll Do

  • Support cutting-edge animation pipelines and tools that empower multiple animation teams.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring characters and vehicles from concept to polished in-game implementation in StarEngine.
  • Implement character interaction systems, transitions, and behaviours that delight players.

Reasons to use Rodeo

I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?

Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.

Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.

Start with a chat, not a search bar

Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.

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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme

PwC·London, UK
£35,000/yr

Why you're a good match

Strong

Your economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.

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It searches the market for you

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Why you're a good match

You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.

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Strong

Experience fit

Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.

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Only hits

No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.

What We're Looking For

Required:

  • Proficiency with Maya animation and rigging systems.
  • Proven coding skills in Python.
  • Shipped at least one game using a commercial game engine.
  • Proven ability to communicate technical concepts & requirements clearly across disciplines.
  • Proactive, hands-on approach with a passion for getting great animation in players' hands.

You'll thrive here if you:

  • Use critical thinking to guide technical decisions and advocate for your solutions.
  • Excel in collaborative, agile team environments.
  • Stay curious about emerging animation technologies.

Diversity Statement

CIG is a global company, staunchly committed to cultivating a culture and workplace that celebrates all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives. Together, we are creating a space where authentic recognition, appreciation, and understanding of the importance of diversity is fostered by everyone. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strive to build a team that represents all walks of life, and we want every employee to bring all the things that make them unique to the work environment. The universe is as vast and varied as the people in it, and it’s our differences that make it special.

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Fraud Statement

We are aware of people receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from CIG. These types of fraud can be carried out through false websites, fake email addresses claiming to be from our company, or social media. We do not ask for your personal info like bank account numbers, identification numbers, etc through social media or chat-based apps, nor do we request or send money for the purchase of business equipment. If you suspect fraud, please report it to your local authorities, as well as reaching out to us at info[@]cloudimperiumgames.com with any information you may have.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us! Founded in 2012, Cloud Imperium Games creates cutting-edge videogames that defy expectations. We’re currently developing Star Citizen, a record-breaking multiplayer online space sim, and Squadron 42, a cinematic single-player adventure set in the same universe. Join us as we break boundaries and make videogame history.

With studios in Manchester, Los Angeles, Austin, and Frankfurt our colleagues work in a relaxed, innovative, and future thinking environment. We host various sports and social groups, such as tabletop games, wargaming, yoga, football, and tennis, to name a few.

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Skills

Maya Animation
Rigging Systems
Python
Game Engine Implementation
Technical Communication
Character Interaction Systems
Facial Rigs
Body Rigs
Pipeline Development
Deformation Systems
Version Control
Tool Integration

Location

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

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