We're currently developing Responding, an open-world emergency services simulator built in Unreal Engine 5, set in a New York-inspired environment.
The project is already live on Steam and focuses heavily on systemic simulation, including large-scale AI traffic, emergency response gameplay, and open-world interactions.
We're looking for an Animation Systems Developer / Technical Animator to help build and own the animation framework for both characters and vehicles.
What you'll be working on:
This is not a traditional animation role.
You'll be working on systems such as:
- Animation Blueprints and state machines for gameplay-driven characters
- Control Rig setups (procedural adjustments, IK, etc.)
- Vehicle animation systems (suspension, steering, interaction with physics)
- Integration between animation and gameplay systems (AI, player input, physics)
- Helping define a scalable animation pipeline for an open-world project.
Our project includes custom systems built on Unreal's Mass framework (AI traffic, entity processing, etc.), so you'll be working closely with gameplay and systems code rather than just assets.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has strong experience with Unreal Engine (AnimBlueprints, Control Rig, IK setups)
- Thinks in systems, not just animations (Data Driven)
- Is comfortable bridging animation, gameplay, and technical implementation
- Can take ownership of features and propose solutions
- Has experience with physics-driven or procedural animation (big plus)
You do NOT need to be perfect in every area, we value problem-solving and adaptability over a perfect checklist.
Bonus experience:
- Experience with vehicle animation or simulation
- Familiarity with Unreal's Mass framework or large-scale AI systems
- Basic C++ or Blueprint scripting for gameplay integration
Project context:
- Open-world UE5 project
- Already released on Steam (early-stage but actively growing)
- Small, focused team with a strong technical foundation
- Long-term development with ongoing content and system expansion
Engagement:
- Contract-based (with potential for long-term collaboration)
- Remote
- Flexible scope depending on your strengths
How to apply:
Send:
- Portfolio or examples of relevant work
- Brief explanation of your experience with Unreal animation systems
- (Optional) Any examples of systems you've built, not just animations
Contact: business@playresponding.com / Discord: #DySands
