Job Description

Join to apply for the Principal Cinematic Designer role at Absurd Ventures

1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

Summary

We are seeking a Principal Cinematic Designer to lead the development of in-game cinematic content for our open-world action-adventure video game. This hands-on leadership role involves translating narrative beats into compelling, immersive sequences that seamlessly integrate with gameplay. You will guide the creative vision and production pipeline for cinematic design, collaborating with writers, animators, designers, and engineers to deliver top-tier visual storytelling.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of cinematic sequences using Unreal Engine's Sequencer.
• Collaborate with creative leads to enhance gameplay with cinematic storytelling.
• Define workflows and pipelines for cinematic production with technical and animation leads.
• Oversee a team of cinematic designers and animators, providing direction and mentorship.
• Work with VFX and audio teams to improve cinematic polish and impact.
• Troubleshoot technical and performance issues related to cinematics.
• Innovate and explore new cinematic expression methods that blend gameplay and visual storytelling.

Core Qualifications

• 5+ years in cinematic design for games, with at least one shipped title.
• Expertise in Unreal Engine, especially Sequencer and Blueprint integration.
• Strong cinematic language skills: shot composition, lighting, pacing, camera movement, editing.
• Experience with motion capture workflows, including blocking, cleanup, and implementation.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills to align teams around a cinematic vision.
• Ability to work across disciplines in a fast-paced, creative environment.
• Creative problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset.
• Passion for narrative-driven, immersive gameplay experiences.

Plus if...

• You have directed performance capture sessions or worked with actors.
• You have a background in film, animation, or television production.
• You have experience with open-world or non-linear narrative titles.
• You are familiar with facial animation pipelines or procedural cinematic systems.
• You can prototype cinematic systems using Blueprint or scripting tools.

Description

• Full-time position with benefits.
• On-site role in Santa Monica, CA.
• Located near downtown Santa Monica, accessible by metro and freeways.

The salary range is $140,000 to $170,000 annually, based on experience and market. Benefits include vacation, sick leave, holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, 401(k) match, and potential bonuses/equity.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Design, Art/Creative, IT

Industries

• Hospitals and Healthcare, Non-profit, Government

Job Tags

Similar Jobs