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3D Animation Maya Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement ... Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation production and Tools * Familiarity with ...

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$9.1K - $11K/mo

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement ... Expert-level skills in Autodesk Maya for animation production and Tools * Familiarity with ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Excellent Maya animation skills * Proficient with animation systems in UE5 * Strong verbal and ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging. * Strong understanding of ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

Exemplary skills in keyframe, stylized 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging. * Strong understanding of ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Excellent Maya animation skills * Proficient with animation systems in UE5 * Strong verbal and ...

ISHE

AI Pipeline & Production Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Familiarity with 2D/3D production pipelines (layout, animation, lighting, rendering, compositing, or post-production). * Software & Formats: Familiarity with tools such as Maya, Blender, ShotGrid ...

New

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA · On-site

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations ... Excellent Maya animation skills * Proficient with animation systems in UE5 * Strong verbal and ...

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3D Animation Maya information

What is a 3d animation maya?

A 3D Animation Maya job involves creating animated scenes, characters, and special effects using Autodesk Maya, a leading 3D animation software. Professionals in this role work in industries like film, gaming, and advertising to produce high-quality visuals. They use keyframe animation, rigging, texturing, and rendering techniques to bring concepts to life. Strong artistic skills, technical proficiency, and an understanding of animation principles are essential. Many 3D animators collaborate with designers, modelers, and VFX artists to achieve the final look.

What does a typical workday look like for a 3d animation maya?

A typical workday for a 3D Animation Maya artist involves interpreting storyboards or scripts, developing and refining 3D models and animations using Autodesk Maya, and collaborating closely with directors, artists, or technical teams to achieve the desired visual outcomes. You may attend daily team meetings to discuss progress, receive feedback, and align on project goals. The work often consists of creative problem-solving, making revisions based on input, and meeting project deadlines. Tasks can vary depending on the studio, but you'll regularly balance creative development with technical execution. This collaborative and dynamic environment encourages ongoing learning and skill development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 3d animation maya position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Animation Maya artist, you need solid skills in 3D modeling, animation principles, texturing, and rendering, often supported by a degree in animation, computer graphics, or a related field. Proficiency in Autodesk Maya, as well as familiarity with other industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite or ZBrush, is typically required, and certifications in these programs are highly valued. Strong creativity, attention to detail, time management, and effective communication with team members help you stand out in this position. These combined skills are vital for delivering visually compelling animations on schedule and collaborating efficiently in a production environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of 3D Animation Maya jobs in California?

The most popular types of 3D Animation Maya jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to 3D Animation Maya jobs in California?

For 3D Animation Maya jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3D Animation Maya jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for 3D Animation Maya jobs in California are:

3D Animation Maya jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Animation Maya job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 67% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Lead 3D Animator - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA • On-site, Remote

Contractor

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Company Description
We create next-generation Virtual Reality Content that represents a new form of entertainment. We bridge the gap between video games and movies, providing a level of immersion, emotional engagement and realism never before seen.
Job Description
  • Creation of high quality game animations in collaboration with concept artists and CCO
  • Define the animation pipelines for maximum quality and efficiency
  • Leading the animation team
  • Ensure animation deliverables meet project defined timelines and budgets
  • Set quality standards for animation on the project
  • Set up a system to share knowledge and techniques across the studio
  • Mentoring animators

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in game development
  • Expert knowledge in key frame creature & character animation of Max/Maya using FK and IK in a variety of styles
  • Expertise in knowledge of creature anatomy, motion, weight, acting and timing applied to 3D animation
  • Understanding of game animation practices and standards
  • Foundational knowledge of composition, editing and cinematic storytelling
  • Exceptional skill in animating realistic creatures
  • Create unique and innovative solutions for solving character animation issues
  • Experience with both motion capture in key frame techniques
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • English language
  • Strong team player and leader by example

Additional Information
Pluses
  • Shipped AAA PC or console titles as a Senior 3D Animator
  • Work experience with Unreal Engine 4
  • Understanding the difference between developing for VR compared to traditional game development.
  • A passion for developing and playing virtual reality experiences

Apply