ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

3D Animator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

3D Animator (Short Term)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

We're seeking a talented Senior 3D Animator to join our team at Roblox for a 6-month engagement. You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform ...

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. You'll focus on creating high-quality, foundational character animations for the Roblox platform ...

Ember Lab

Senior Gameplay Animator

Orange, CA

$88K - $120K/yr

As a Senior Gameplay Animator, you will conceptualize, design, develop and execute 3D animations. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life! Description

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. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life! Description

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. You will collaborate across teams to bring these animations and Ember Lab work to life! Description

Prisms VR

3D Artist

San Francisco, CA

$110K - $140K/yr

As a 3D Artist, you will craft characters, environments, and educational 3D motion graphic animations for virtual reality. The ideal candidate should know and enjoy every aspect of the 3D content ...

TechLink Systems

Flash - Animator

Torrance, CA

Qualified candidate must be competent in compiling 2D/3D illustration sequences, video, web and mobile content development. 5+ years of experience in building interactive Flash animation and mobile ...

TechLink Systems

Flash - Animator

Torrance, CA · On-site

Qualified candidate must be competent in compiling 2D/3D illustration sequences, video, web and mobile content development. 5+ years of experience in building interactive Flash animation and mobile ...

Jam City

Technical Animator

San Francisco, CA

$90K - $110K/yr

Skilled in 3D character animation for bipedal humanoids, creatures, and organic forms. * Expertly apply animation principles to in-game animation: timing, acting, & body mechanics. * Experience with ...

Jam City

Technical Animator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Skilled in 3D character animation for bipedal humanoids, creatures, and organic forms. * Expertly apply animation principles to in-game animation: timing, acting, & body mechanics. * Experience with ...

Jam City

Technical Animator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Skilled in 3D character animation for bipedal humanoids, creatures, and organic forms. * Expertly apply animation principles to in-game animation: timing, acting, & body mechanics. * Experience with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobs3D Animator Jobs3D Animator Jobs in California

3D Animator information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$63K

$130.8K

How much do 3d animator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d animator in California is $63,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $61,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3D animator?

A 3D animator combines art and science to produce 3D animated creations. These artists generate visual designs on a computer and use 3D printing technology to make a tangible model of their concept. Examples of 3D animation products include gaming equipment, film props, and medical illustrations. Most 3D animators work in a studio setting among a team of other 3D animators, each person contributing to the projects based on their strengths.

What does a 3D animator do?

A 3D Animator creates three-dimensional moving images for films, video games, advertisements, and other media. They use specialized software to design characters, objects, and environments, and then animate them to bring stories or concepts to life. Their work often involves collaborating with other artists, directors, and technical staff to ensure the animation fits the overall vision of the project. 3D Animators must have strong artistic skills, technical proficiency, and attention to detail.

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

To thrive as a 3D Animator, you need a strong understanding of animation principles, modeling, texturing, and a portfolio demonstrating your creative and technical abilities, often supported by a degree in animation or related fields. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max and familiarity with rendering engines and motion capture systems are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, collaboration, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for translating ideas into compelling visual stories and working with production teams. These skills and qualities are vital for producing high-quality animations that meet project goals and industry standards.

What are some common challenges 3D animators face when working on team-based projects?

3D Animators often collaborate closely with modelers, riggers, and technical directors, which can present challenges such as ensuring animation timing matches the project's vision and maintaining consistency across multiple characters or scenes. Communicating effectively to align on feedback and revisions is crucial, especially when working with remote teams or tight deadlines. Being adaptable and open to creative input helps animators navigate these challenges while contributing to a cohesive final product.

Is 3D animation a good career?

3D animation is a viable career that offers opportunities in entertainment, gaming, advertising, and film industries. Success typically requires strong artistic skills, proficiency with software like Maya or Blender, and continuous learning to keep up with technological advancements.

Is there a demand for 3D animators?

The demand for 3D animators remains strong across industries such as entertainment, gaming, advertising, and virtual reality, driven by ongoing growth in digital media and content creation. Skills in industry-standard software like Maya, Blender, or Cinema 4D, along with a strong portfolio, can enhance job prospects as companies seek talented animators for various projects.

What jobs can a 3D Animator do?

A 3D Animator can work in industries such as film, video games, advertising, and virtual reality, creating animated characters, environments, and visual effects. They often use software like Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max and may collaborate with designers, directors, and developers to produce visual content for various media platforms.
More about 3D Animator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for 3D Animator jobs?

Cities in California with the most 3D Animator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to 3D Animator jobs in CA?

For 3D Animator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

3D Animator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Animator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,030 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Lead 3D Animator - Virtual Reality

Immersive Entertainment

Irvine, CA

Contractor

Re-posted 19 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