Character Animator - Generative AI Experiences SW

Character Animator - Generative AI Experiences SWAt Apple, we strive to make great products that empower people and improve their lives. We are looking for a great Character Animator to join our diverse team of engineers, artists and designers and help us take our state of the art character animation systems to the next level. This position focuses on creating high-quality, stylized character animation with emphasis on creative expression, performance, and facial animation to push the limits of the next generation of interactive computing.This role requires a deep understanding of animation artistry, technical proficiency in Maya, and the ability to work within real-time constraints while maintaining high creative standards.ResponsibilitiesCreate compelling character performances using creative and stylized animation techniquesDevelop expressive facial animation that conveys emotion and personalityCollaborate with directors and technical teams on animation pipelines and workflowsExplore emerging animation technologies and techniquesWork with motion capture data to create polished, performance-driven animationEnsure animation quality meets real-time performance requirementsMinimum QualificationsSolid grasp on the traditional principles of animationExperience in expressive facial animationExpert level of knowledge of Autodesk MayaUnderstanding of technical constraints in real-time environmentsGreat at providing and receiving feedbackEnsure animations run efficiently across target platforms and use cases, both real time with frame rate budgets and non-real timePreferred QualificationsUSD format and workflow familiarityExperience with procedural animation techniquesMotion capture cleanup and performance enhancement experienceExperience with real-time game engines (Unity, Unreal, or proprietary engines)Experience with non-linear animation systems, animation statemachines and/or motion matching techniques.Skilled in modeling and rigging is a plusAt Apple, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The base pay range for this role is between $150,400 and $277,600, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple's discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You'll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.