We are seeking an experienced Senior / Lead Animator to join Last Arrow Games. The role is responsible for bringing player characters and a diverse range of creatures to life in Unreal Engine 5, while leading and mentoring the animation team and helping develop animation pipelines and workflows. This role is based at our studio in Gateshead.
Key Responsibilities
- Create high-quality animations for player characters and creatures
- Lead, mentor and scale the animation team
- Develop believable creature movement and behaviours
- Animate locomotion, traversal, attacks, reactions and cinematics
- Collaborate with designers, artists and engineers
- Manage rigging and export pipelines
- Improve animation workflows, tools and pipelines
- Conduct animation reviews and provide feedback
- Estimate work and support production planning
Key Skills Required
- 5+ years game development experience with at least one shipped title
- Experience animating creatures and characters
- Non-humanoid rigging expertise
- Unreal Engine animation integration
- Maya, Blender or equivalent proficiency
- Leadership, mentoring and communication skills
- Strong organisational and time management skills
Desirable:
- Animation Blueprints in UE5
- Control Rig, procedural animation or Motion Matching
- Cinematic animation experience
Qualifications
- Professional animation training desirable
- Strong portfolio and practical experience essential
- Must be eligible to work in the UK
At Last Arrow, we’re committed to creating a supportive, rewarding working environment where our people can thrive. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance your wellbeing, protect your future, and support life inside and outside work. Our benefits include:
Competitive Salary
Healthcare Cash Plan – Cashback on everyday healthcare expenses such as dental, optical, and physiotherapy.
Tech Purchase Scheme – Spread the cost of new technology through affordable monthly payments.
Cycle to Work Scheme – Save on bikes and cycling equipment while supporting a healthy, eco‑friendly commute.
Income Protection – Financial support if you’re unable to work due to long‑term illness or injury.
Critical Illness & Life Insurance – Extra peace of mind for you and your family.
Virtual GP Service – Quick and convenient access to medical advice, whenever you need it.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – Confidential support for mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
Discounts & Cashback Platform – Savings on hundreds of retailers, essentials, and lifestyle purchases.
Birthday Day Off – Enjoy an additional day of paid leave to celebrate your birthday.
A Supportive Working Environment – A culture that values wellbeing, collaboration, and personal growth.
