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3D Animation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Graphic Artist

King George, VA · On-site

$155K - $165K/yr

PhotoShop, Adobe Illustration Package, 3D Modeling, Animation, Web-Design and HTML, Authoring of Courseware and Internet Sites. * Proposes creative input to final decision makers related to design ...

Work with forensic animators to develop scaled 3D drawings of crash scenes and vehicles. * Utilize PC Crash (or other similar collision reconstruction software) to perform simulations of automobile ...

Graphic Artist

King George, VA

$118K - $141K/yr

PhotoShop, Adobe Illustration Package, 3D Modeling, Animation, Web-Design and HTML, Authoring of Courseware and Internet Sites. * Proposes creative input to final decision makers related to design ...

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

Autodesk 3DS Max Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

... 3D modeling beginners through advanced users developing professional visualization and animation skills. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with ...

Showing results 41-60

3D Animation information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$63.3K

$131.4K

How much do 3d animation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d animation in Virginia is $63,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $62,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3d animation?

A 3D Animation job involves creating moving images in a three-dimensional digital environment using specialized software. 3D animators design characters, objects, and scenes, then animate them to tell a story or convey information. They work in industries such as film, television, video games, advertising, and virtual reality. The role requires creativity, technical skills, and a strong understanding of movement and visual storytelling. Common software used includes Blender, Maya, and Cinema 4D.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in 3d animation?

A typical day for a 3D Animator involves creating and refining character or object animations, reviewing feedback from directors or leads, and making necessary revisions to achieve the desired visual style and motion. You will likely collaborate closely with modelers, riggers, texture artists, and other teammates to ensure visual consistency and technical feasibility. Deadlines play a crucial role, so effective time management and clear communication within the production pipeline are especially important. Additionally, keeping up to date with new software features or animation techniques is often part of the workflow. This dynamic routine offers both creative satisfaction and the chance to contribute meaningfully to larger projects such as games, films, or advertising campaigns.

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

To thrive in 3D Animation, you need strong skills in visual storytelling, character animation, and a solid grasp of animation principles, often supported by a degree in animation, visual arts, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Cinema 4D, and familiarity with rendering engines, are highly valued, as are relevant certifications. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and effective time management are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure the creation of engaging and polished animations while meeting project deadlines and working cohesively within creative production teams.

Is 3D animation a good career?

3D animation is a viable career that involves creating digital models and visual effects using software like Maya or Blender. It requires strong artistic skills, technical knowledge, and often a portfolio or certification to succeed in fields such as film, gaming, or advertising. Job prospects depend on industry demand and individual skill level.

Is 3D animation still in demand?

3D animation remains in demand across industries such as entertainment, gaming, advertising, and virtual reality, with ongoing advancements in software like Maya and Blender. Skilled 3D animators with proficiency in modeling, rigging, and rendering are sought after as visual content continues to grow in importance.

What jobs can you get with 3D animation?

With 3D animation skills, you can pursue roles such as 3D Animator, Character Animator, Visual Effects Artist, Game Designer, or 3D Modeler. These jobs are common in industries like film, gaming, advertising, and virtual reality, often requiring proficiency in software like Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max.

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for 3D Animation jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most 3D Animation job openings:

Infographic showing various 3D Animation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,318 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 619 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department: Col of Visual and Performing Arts
Classification: 9-month Instructional Faculty
Job Category: Instructional Faculty
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: N/A - I/R Faculty
Location: Fairfax, VA
Workplace Type: Hybrid Eligible
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
1. Offers undergraduate game design courses leading to a BFA in Computer Game Design;
2. Provides mentorship and guidance in game production to students pursuing majors and minors in Computer Game Design; and
3. Supports a cohesive faculty and staff to carry out objectives 1 and 2.
About the Position:
Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses and helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program. Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.
Responsibilities:
  • Teaches undergraduate Game Design, 3D Modeling, and Animation courses;
  • Helps develop this future track in the Computer Game Design Program; and
  • Pursues research (traditional or applied) and/or creative endeavors to contribute significantly to the field.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field;
  • 5+ years experience in Game Design or related industry, or Master's degree in related field;
  • Experienced in all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
  • Extensive experience working with all primary game design, production, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Applicable experience (minimum of five years is desired) in the industry; and expertise using current professional game engines, editors and project management software;
  • Knowledgeable about all facets of 3D Modeling and Animation for game design and development, including technical, managerial and artistic advances; current research (traditional and applied); and industry developments;
  • Extensive knowledge working with all primary game design, game programming, and management software applications, engines, and tools, as well as related hardware;
  • Knowledge of 3D Modeling and animation software utilized in the industry;
  • Knowledge of workflow in multi-platform game production and publication;
  • Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills;
  • Proven critical thinking, problem-solving, and judgment skills;
  • Ability to successfully interact with the industry business and governmental communities;
  • Has a demonstrated commitment and ability to work collaboratively within a complex work environment; and
  • Possesses an approach that fosters a respectful, nonthreatening workplace environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in related field;
  • 5+ years experience in the Game Design industry and publication of major entertainment or serious games, or Terminal degree in Game related discipline; and
  • Demonstrated ability working with a diverse population of artists, students, faculty, staff, and community members.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for Instructor or Assistant Professor of Game Design at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent with Resume for review.
Posting Open Date: August 29, 2025
For Full Consideration, Apply by: September 12, 2025
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
George Mason University is a nationally ranked R1 research university committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world. With 40,000 enrolled students, George Mason is the largest and most diverse public research university in Virginia, offering degree programs at the master's, doctoral, and professional level, along with certificates and credentials.
George Mason fosters an All Together Different environment for students, faculty, and staff, driven by our core beliefs. We believe in inclusivity over exclusivity; we believe in advancing our mission by being willing to take risks, not avoiding them; and we believe our best work is possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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