Senior / Lead Animator

<p><span><strong>This role is based at our studio in Gateshead and therefore it is imperative that you live within a commutable distance</strong></span></p><p><span>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. </span></p><p>• Create high-quality animations for player characters and creatures<br>• Lead, mentor and scale the animation team<br>• Develop believable creature movement and behaviours<br>• Animate locomotion, traversal, attacks, reactions and cinematics<br>• Collaborate with designers, artists and engineers<br>• Manage rigging and export pipelines<br>• Improve animation workflows, tools and pipelines<br>• Conduct animation reviews and provide feedback<br>• Estimate work and support production planning</p><p>Key Skills Required</p><p><span>• 5+ years game development experience with at least one shipped title<br>• Experience animating creatures and characters<br>• Non-humanoid rigging expertise<br>• Unreal Engine animation integration<br>• Maya, Blender or equivalent proficiency<br>• Leadership, mentoring and communication skills<br>• Strong organisational and time management skills<br><br>Desirable:<br>• Animation Blueprints in UE5<br>• Control Rig, procedural animation or Motion Matching<br>• Cinematic animation experience</span></p><p>Qualifications</p><p><span>• Professional animation training desirable<br>• Strong portfolio and practical experience essential<br>• Must be eligible to work in the UK</span></p><h3><strong>What We Offer</strong></h3><p>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:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Competitive Salary</strong></p></li><li><p><strong>Healthcare Cash Plan</strong> – Cashback on everyday healthcare expenses such as dental, optical, and physiotherapy.</p></li><li><p><strong>Tech Purchase Scheme</strong> – Spread the cost of new technology through affordable monthly payments.</p></li><li><p><strong>Cycle to Work Scheme</strong> – Save on bikes and cycling equipment while supporting a healthy, eco‑friendly commute.</p></li><li><p><strong>Income Protection</strong> – Financial support if you’re unable to work due to long‑term illness or injury.</p></li><li><p><strong>Critical Illness &amp; Life Insurance</strong> – Extra peace of mind for you and your family.</p></li><li><p><strong>Virtual GP Service</strong> – Quick and convenient access to medical advice, whenever you need it.</p></li><li><p><strong>Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)</strong> – Confidential support for mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.</p></li><li><p><strong>Discounts &amp; Cashback Platform</strong> – Savings on hundreds of retailers, essentials, and lifestyle purchases.</p></li><li><p><strong>Birthday Day Off</strong> – Enjoy an additional day of paid leave to celebrate your birthday.</p></li><li><p><strong>A Supportive Working Environment</strong> – A culture that values wellbeing, collaboration, and personal growth.</p></li></ul><p></p>