Motion Designer & Character Animator (Contract-to-Hire)
RillaFull Time
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)
Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Animation, Computer Graphics, Digital Media, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience, along with over 5 years of professional digital animation experience, preferably in tech, robotics, gaming, or product-focused environments. A strong portfolio demonstrating character and mechanical animation, with robotic or procedural animation being a significant advantage, is required. Proficiency in animation software such as Blender, Maya, or Cinema 4D is essential, and familiarity with Unity, Unreal Engine, or ROS-based visualizers is highly advantageous. Experience with motion capture data, FBX files, and skeletal rigs is necessary, as is a technical mindset comfortable working with engineers and robot telemetry or simulation data. Strong storytelling instincts and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced setting are crucial. Willingness to travel for project execution is also required. Experience animating humanoid movement or biomechanical systems, knowledge of rigging and model integration with engineering teams, and an interest in robotics, biomechanics, or machine learning visualization are considered nice to have.
The Digital Animator will create high-quality animation content for robot performances, dances, emotes, customer animation-as-a-service packages, and general marketing usage using in-house software. This role involves generating timelines, animatics, graphics, and layout maps to visualize project scope and development, as well as conducting reliability robustness testing. The animator will collaborate closely with the Creative Director, Product Marketing, and Engineering teams to translate real robot behaviors into engaging and realistic animations for digital and video content across various channels. They will leverage internal and external tools, including robot models and motion data, to create both stylized and accurate movement, and support storytelling around new product features, software capabilities, and use cases. Responsibilities also include optimizing and streamlining the creative process for building animated content across platforms, ensuring visual consistency and technical performance, and maintaining an organized animation pipeline that supports version control, feedback loops, and rapid iteration. Occasional assistance with motion graphics or visual effects for broader marketing campaigns may be required.
Develops advanced robots for industrial applications
Boston Dynamics creates advanced robots that enhance human capabilities and safety, focusing on legged robots with high mobility, dexterity, and intelligence. Their flagship products, Spot and Pick, are designed for commercial, industrial, and research applications, performing tasks that are dangerous or physically demanding for humans. Spot, for example, is a 65-pound robot that can navigate complex terrains and avoid obstacles autonomously using built-in AI. Unlike many competitors, Boston Dynamics emphasizes responsible use of their robots, limiting sales to commercial and research clients and ensuring high-quality standards through domestic manufacturing. The company's goal is to improve safety and efficiency across various industries while exploring future consumer applications.