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2D 3D Animation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior 3D Motion Designer

Austin, TX · On-site

$105K - $119K/yr

Own the full 3D production process, including animation, composition, lighting, materials, camera ... Real-time rendering or interactive 3D experience. * 2D motion graphics experience, especially for ...

Senior 3D Motion Designer

Austin, TX

$105K - $119K/yr

Own the full 3D production process, including animation, composition, lighting, materials, camera ... Real-time rendering or interactive 3D experience. * 2D motion graphics experience, especially for ...

Senior 3D Motion Designer

Austin, TX

$105K - $119K/yr

Own the full 3D production process, including animation, composition, lighting, materials, camera ... Real-time rendering or interactive 3D experience. * 2D motion graphics experience, especially for ...

Animator

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$72 - $90/hr

Create 2D and 3D animations, motion graphics, explainer videos, and visual assets. * Develop storyboards, visual concepts, style frames, and animation sequences. * Translate technical and business ...

C++ OpenGL Developer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$45.25 - $60.75/hr

... around 2D/3D filters • Familiarity with 3D animations • Familiarity with visual simulations and computer games Qualifications : Required : • Hands on experience in OpenGL. • Strong ...

About MetaBull & MetaBull Labs MetaBull is an AI-native production technology company building advanced software, production systems, and automation infrastructure for animation, CGI, 2D/3D content ...

$120 - $160/hr

About MetaBull & MetaBull Labs MetaBull is an AI-native production technology company building advanced software, production systems, and automation infrastructure for animation, CGI, 2D/3D content ...

Scoreboard Operations Internship

Columbus, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

... and 2D/3D animation. • Exceptional time management and organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task. • Outstanding communication skills. • Ability and willingness to work non ...

Scoreboard Operations Internship

Columbus, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

... and 2D/3D animation. • Exceptional time management and organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task. • Outstanding communication skills. • Ability and willingness to work non ...

Scoreboard Operations Intern

Columbus, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

... and 2D/3D animation. • Exceptional time management and organizational skills, with the ability to multi-task. • Outstanding communication skills. • Ability and willingness to work non ...

Showing results 21-40

2D 3D Animation information

See salary details

$31K

$63.9K

$132.5K

How much do 2d 3d animation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for 2d 3d animation in the United States is $63,866.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $62,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 2D and 3D animation?

2D and 3D animation refer to two different types of animation techniques used to create moving images. 2D animation involves creating movement in a two-dimensional space, using flat images or drawings, and is often seen in traditional cartoons and animated TV shows. 3D animation, on the other hand, uses computer software to create characters and environments that have depth, making them appear more lifelike and realistic. Both types of animation are widely used in films, video games, advertising, and online content. The choice between 2D and 3D animation depends on the project's style, budget, and technical requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2D/3D animator?

To thrive as a 2D/3D Animator, you need a solid understanding of animation principles, visual storytelling, and proficiency in design, often backed by a degree in animation or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Toon Boom is typically required, along with knowledge of rendering and rigging techniques. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help animators bring concepts to life and work effectively within teams. These competencies ensure the creation of compelling, high-quality animations that meet project goals and client expectations.

How do 2D and 3D animators typically collaborate within a production team?

2D and 3D animators often work closely with each other and other departments such as storyboarding, modeling, texturing, and compositing. Collaboration can involve integrating 2D animation overlays with 3D environments or combining both styles for hybrid projects. Communication is key, as both roles need to ensure visual consistency and timing across shots. Regular meetings and file sharing platforms help synchronize efforts, and animators frequently provide feedback on each other's work to achieve the desired creative vision.

What is the difference between 2D 3D Animation vs Motion Graphics Designer?

Aspect2D 3D AnimationMotion Graphics Designer
Skills & ToolsAnimation software (After Effects, Maya, Blender), modeling, riggingAfter Effects, Illustrator, Photoshop, typography
Work EnvironmentFilm, gaming, advertising, visual effectsBroadcast, advertising, digital media
CredentialsAnimation courses, portfolio, technical skillsDesign background, portfolio, creativity

While both roles involve visual storytelling, 2D 3D Animation focuses on creating animated sequences using modeling and rigging in 2D or 3D space, often for films, games, or VFX. Motion Graphics Designers primarily craft animated graphics and typography for videos, commercials, and digital media. The key difference lies in the complexity and purpose of the animations, with 2D 3D Animators working on more detailed, character-driven projects, and Motion Graphics Designers emphasizing graphic elements and visual effects.

Do 2D or 3D animators get paid more?

Generally, 3D animators tend to earn higher salaries than 2D animators due to the increased complexity, technical skills, and software expertise required for 3D animation. However, salaries can vary based on experience, industry, location, and the specific employer, with 3D roles often commanding higher pay in fields like gaming, film, and visual effects.

Is 2D 3D animation still in demand?

2D and 3D animation professionals are in ongoing demand across industries such as entertainment, advertising, and gaming. Skills in software like Adobe After Effects, Maya, or Blender, along with a strong portfolio, can enhance job prospects as animation continues to be a key component of visual storytelling and digital content creation.

Is 3D animation a high paying job?

2D and 3D animation jobs can offer competitive salaries, especially for experienced professionals skilled in software like Maya or Blender. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and industry, with senior roles and specialized skills generally earning higher pay.
More about 2D 3D Animation jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of 2D 3D Animation jobs?

The most popular types of 2D 3D Animation jobs are:

Infographic showing various 2D 3D Animation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,866 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Senior 3D Motion Designer

Roman Health Pharmacy LLC

Austin, TX • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Own production of high-quality 3D animated content for web, social, press, events, and executive presentations.

  • Lead creation of polished, artful 3D animated sequences for marketing, product storytelling, technical explainers, and similar use cases.

  • Own the full 3D production process, including animation, composition, lighting, materials, camera animation, rendering, and compositing.


Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands‑on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward‑thinking individuals to join our team.

The 3D Motion Designer owns production of high-quality 3D content for web, social, press, events, and executive presentations. This role leads complex 3D animated sequences and renders, translating technical concepts into beautiful, technically accurate visual stories, and establishes standards for modular, reusable animation assets. This position operates with general supervision, exercising independent judgment on creative and technical execution and mentoring junior designers.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Own production of high-quality 3D animated content for web, social, press, events, and executive presentations.
  • Lead creation of polished, artful 3D animated sequences for marketing, product storytelling, technical explainers, and similar use cases.
  • Own the full 3D production process, including animation, composition, lighting, materials, camera animation, rendering, and compositing.
  • Create both realistic product/system renders and abstract concept animations, with an emphasis on realistic visual execution.
  • Establish and maintain modular 3D animation assets and standards for reuse across videos, campaigns, and presentations.
  • Translate complex engineering concepts into beautiful and technically accurate visual content, independently resolving ambiguity in technical input.
  • Partner directly with engineers and designers to develop storyboards and technical concepts for complex projects.
  • Collaborate with designers, marketers, and engineering subject matter experts, serving as the primary point of contact for 3D content.
  • Apply strong visual storytelling instincts to balance technical accuracy, clarity, beauty, and brand impact across high‑visibility projects.
  • Maintain strong attention to detail and own quality for all final renders.
  • Establish file organization and asset management standards, and mentor junior designers on 3D production practices.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Animation, Motion Design, Fine Arts, or a related field, with 5–8 years of professional experience in 3D animation, motion design, or visual effects.
  • Expert knowledge of the end-to-end 3D production pipeline, including modeling, animation, lighting, materials, camera animation, rendering, compositing, and post‑production.
  • Demonstrated ability to create both realistic product/system renders and abstract concept animations, with an emphasis on realistic visual execution.
  • Ability to establish and scale modular 3D animation assets across multiple videos, campaigns, and presentations.
  • Strong portfolio or reel demonstrating 3D animation, realistic rendering, technical visualization, or cinematic product storytelling.
  • Proficiency with industry‑standard 3D software such as Cinema 4D, Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max.
  • Experience using professional rendering engines, including Redshift, Octane, Arnold, or V‑Ray.
  • Advanced proficiency with Adobe After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro for animation, compositing, and video editing.
  • Experience with Substance Painter or similar texturing and material authoring tools.
  • Ability to manage multiple creative projects simultaneously while maintaining exceptional quality, attention to detail, and adherence to deadlines.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Experience with aerospace, RF, satellite communications, hardware, phased arrays, payloads, antennas, orbital networks, software‑defined radios, or systems architecture.
  • Engineering background or technical education is a plus, with the ability to understand and accurately communicate complex engineering concepts through visual media.
  • Real‑time rendering or interactive 3D experience.
  • 2D motion graphics experience, especially for titles, labels, annotations, diagrams, and technical callouts.

CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.

CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard torace, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteris protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

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