2D Game Animator

About TapOrbit Studios

TapOrbit Studios is a small indie team based in Ontario. We’re a tight-knit group of developers and artists building games together and sweating the details. We care about clear communication, steady progress, and making something we’re genuinely proud to share.

The project

We’re working on a story-driven tactics RPG inspired by classic grid-based strategy games, with deep party building, turn-based combat, and a strong sense of character. The scope is focused and shippable, but still rich in content and systems, with its own voice, world, and style.

Role summary

We’re hiring a 2D Gameplay Animator to support animation production for our game. You’ll create clean, expressive, game-ready animations that bring characters and environments to life. Expect to iterate quickly, incorporate feedback, and contribute ideas. You’ll work closely with the art and tech teams, supporting the Game Artist and reporting to our Creative Director.

What you’ll do

• Animate 2D character actions and loops (idle, walk/run, attacks, reactions, interactions).
• Brainstorm, design, rig, and produce expressive 2D skeletal animations for characters, animals, monsters, and environmental elements.
• Work in a lineart-forward, cartoon–anime hybrid style (style references: Arknights, Fate/Grand Order).
• Collaborate with the art and tech teams to keep animations aligned with technical constraints while maintaining quality.
• Iterate on feedback efficiently and communicate progress clearly in writing (we’re remote-first, so written updates matter).
• Deliver production-ready exports with organized files, naming conventions, and consistent formats.
• Import, integrate, and implement animations in Unity.

Requirements

• A game-focused 2D animation portfolio or demo reel showing your process (design, rigging, and in-engine implementation).
• Experience with 2D skeletal animation tools such as Spine, DragonBones, Live2D, and/or Unity Animation.
• Strong comfort with lineart-focused animation in a cartoon–anime hybrid style.
• Reliable turnaround and comfort with revision cycles.
• Clear English communication (written and spoken) for remote collaboration.
• Legally authorized to work in Canada.

Nice to have

• Unity VFX experience.
• Live2D experience.
• Sprite sheet animation.
• Traditional frame-by-frame animation for promotional materials.
• 3D rigging and animation.

How to apply

Email [email protected] with:

• A link to your portfolio/demo reel
• A short note on your tools and workflow
• Your availability and typical weekly capacity

Equal opportunity & accommodations

TapOrbit Studios is committed to fair, inclusive hiring. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request throughout the hiring process.

Compensation

• Pay range: $19.00 - $24.00 hourly