Lead Animator

We’re working with an independent game studio that’s known for a critically successful melee combat title. They’re now building a new action-oriented PC & console project and are looking for a Lead Animator to join their animation team on-site or in a hybrid setup in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
In this role, you’ll lead a team of four animators and remain directly hands-on, setting the standard with your own high-quality gameplay animations. The majority of the work will involve first- and third-person melee combat animations, so strong keyframe ability and experience working on action combat systems are essential.
You’ll be responsible for driving animation quality across the project — from prototyping through to implementation in-engine — and will work closely with the graphics and production teams to ensure assets are delivered efficiently and at a high standard.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor a team of 4 animators.
• Create polished and reactive keyframe animations for human characters and creatures, primarily focused on melee combat.
• Manage the full animation pipeline from concept to in-engine delivery.
• Implement animations using systems such as blend trees and state machines.
• Collaborate with other departments to maintain a cohesive visual style and smooth integration.

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Senior or Lead Animator in the games industry.
• Strong keyframe animation skills with a gameplay-focused reel.
• Recent hands-on experience — ideally still actively animating in your current or most recent role.
• Experience working with animation systems in Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Solid understanding of animation principles, with attention to movement, weight, and responsiveness.
• Effective communication and leadership skills.

Bonus:

• Unreal Engine experience.
• Background in combat-heavy titles or multiplayer action games.

What’s On Offer:

• Hybrid work model with flexible hours.
• VISA and relocation support.
• Friendly, international team environment with regular studio events.
• Spacious office located near the center of Ljubljana.

Salary: 50,000 - 75,000 Euros