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3D Animator Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Itshipsa coordinated stack of image, video, animation, and 3D generation models that need to work together. You'll design the orchestration layer: how a character generated in the image model ...

Ability to use AutoCAD, Photoshop, SketchUp or other 3D Modeling, Animation, Rendering computer graphics programs a plus. * Superior client focus/service mentality. * Strong problem-solving and ...

Ability to use AutoCAD, Photoshop, SketchUp or other 3D Modeling, Animation, Rendering computer graphics programs a plus. * Superior client focus/service mentality. * Strong problem-solving and ...

Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries. * Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or ...

Experience with motion capture, animation, virtual production, robotics, biomechanics, or related industries. * Experience with 3D applications such as Maya, MotionBuilder, Blender, Unreal Engine, or ...

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3D Animator information

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$34.9K

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How much do 3d animator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d animator in Renton, WA is $71,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $70,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Does Disney hire 2D animators?

Disney has historically hired 2D animators for traditional animation projects, especially for classic animated films and television series. However, in recent years, the company has shifted focus toward 3D animation and CGI, with fewer opportunities specifically for 2D animators, though some roles in 2D animation still exist for specialized projects or legacy work.

What is 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.

Is 3D animation a good career?

3D animation is a viable career that involves creating visual effects and models for entertainment, advertising, and other industries. Success often requires proficiency in software like Maya or Blender, strong artistic skills, and continuous learning to keep up with technological advances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D Animator, and why are they important?

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.

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 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.

Is AI replacing 3D animators?

AI is increasingly used to assist 3D animators by automating repetitive tasks and enhancing workflow, but it does not fully replace the need for human creativity, artistic judgment, and technical skills essential to the role. 3D animators continue to be vital for creating complex, expressive, and high-quality animations that require artistic direction and problem-solving. Proficiency in animation software and understanding of AI tools can improve efficiency but do not eliminate the need for skilled professionals in the field.
What job categories do people searching 3D Animator jobs in Renton, WA look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Animator jobs in Renton, WA are:
What cities near Renton, WA are hiring for 3D Animator jobs? Cities near Renton, WA with the most 3D Animator job openings:
Infographic showing various 3D Animator job openings in Renton, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,838 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
CONTRACT - Associate Environment Artist I (NST)

CONTRACT - Associate Environment Artist I (NST)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Nintendo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 190 rated software companies


Job description

Nintendo Software Technology Corporation
 
Nintendo Software Technology Corporation, based in Redmond, Washington , is a wholly owned subsidiary of the world's largest manufacturer and marketer of video games, Nintendo Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan.  Nintendo Software Technology's mission is to design, develop and deliver the very best video games. We conduct research, use state-of-the-art equipment and review methods of operation so that we may continually improve the quality of the games that we produce. Each person employed at Nintendo Software Technology Corporation is a valued team member and is encouraged to participate in our efforts to create the highest quality games. 

Nintendo is an equal opportunity employer. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, the diverse consumers we represent, and the communities we call home. We do all of this with kindness, empathy and respect for each other.

Nintendo Software Technology is a tight-knit game development studio located in Redmond, WA. As part of the Nintendo family, we're passionate about creating games designed to surprise and delight our customers. We're always on the lookout for exceptional artist to help support our Art Department.

As an Environment Artist, you will have proven Substance Designer experience and a deep passion for stylized texture authoring for hard surface and organic subjects. If this sounds like you then we'd love to see your portfolio!

SUMMARY: 

  • A developing individual contributor that participates and assists in creations of visual assets for digital entertainment products.
  • Implement defined subset of visual asset tasks of assigned team or project

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

  • Participates in the creation of 3D content that meets required direction and quality specifications.
  • Participates in assigned illustrations, 3D models, and textures for characters, environments, and objects.
  • Participates in assigned animations for 3D and 2D assets.
  • Utilizes and maintains proficient knowledge of required commercial and Nintendo proprietary art production tools.
  • Implements game play features aligned to game design goals.
  • Applies professional expertise to review, analyze and test products under development as a contributing member of a production team to ensure delivery of Nintendo's high standard of quality and timeliness.

SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum of 1 year of professional experience having shipped at least 1 game.
  • Proven artistic and technical skills in basic 3D and or 2D art production.
  • Experienced with game development pipelines and game engines (E.g. Unreal, Unity or a proprietary engine)
  • Proven proficiency with commercial art production software (E.g. Photoshop, Maya, Zbrush, Substance Painter, etc).
  • Capable of excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Can respond to feedback and iterations quickly and efficiently.
  • Undergraduate degree in art or related field; or equivalent education and experience.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.