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3D Character Animation 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 ... Strong experience in character animation , with a focus on creating believable, game-ready ...

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 ... Strong experience in character animation , with a focus on creating believable, game-ready ...

Spellbrush

3D Game Programmer (Unity)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

You're good at 3D character animation Bonus if you have used mocap and understand the mocap workflow at a studio. Bonus for having your assets on the Unity store. You're excited about the potential ...

Human Computer Lab

Character Artist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$142K - $149K/yr

Are pursuing a degree in screen-writing, animation, character design, industrial design, or a ... Have a portfolio that shows character design or expressive design work, in 2D or 3D. * Document ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

... 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging. * Strong understanding of character performance, form, gesture, and ...

Cloud Chamber

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

... 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging. * Strong understanding of character performance, form, gesture, and ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA

$124K - $142K/yr

... 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging. * Strong understanding of character performance, form, gesture, and ...

2K

Senior Gameplay Animator

Novato, CA · On-site

$124K - $142K/yr

... 3D animation, using Maya and/or Motion Builder. * Experience working in Unreal Engine for animation implementation and debugging. * Strong understanding of character performance, form, gesture, and ...

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All Jobs3D Character Animation Jobs3D Character Animation Jobs in California

3D Character Animation information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$63K

$130.8K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d character animation 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D character animator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Character Animator, you need strong artistic skills in character movement, an understanding of anatomy, and typically a degree in animation or a related field. Mastery of industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max, and familiarity with rigging and motion capture systems are highly valuable. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration and communication skills make animators stand out in team-based environments. These abilities ensure the creation of lifelike, engaging characters that effectively tell stories and enhance visual projects.

What are some common challenges 3D character animators face when working on collaborative projects?

3D Character Animators frequently collaborate with modelers, riggers, and technical artists to bring characters to life. One common challenge is ensuring that the animation matches the intended style and technical specifications set by the art and design leads, especially when multiple animators are involved. Integrating animations seamlessly with game engines or film pipelines can also pose technical hurdles. Effective communication and regular feedback sessions are vital to overcoming these challenges and ensuring a consistent, high-quality result.

What is the difference between 3D Character Animation vs 3D Modeler?

Aspect3D Character Animation3D Modeler
Primary FocusCreating movement and performance for charactersBuilding and designing 3D models, including characters
Skills RequiredAnimation, rigging, storytellingModeling, texturing, topology
Work EnvironmentAnimation studios, game development, filmModeling studios, game design, visual effects
Tools UsedAutodesk Maya, Blender, 3ds MaxAutodesk Maya, ZBrush, Blender

While both roles involve 3D software and creative skills, 3D Character Animation focuses on bringing characters to life through movement, whereas 3D Modelers create the detailed models that serve as the foundation for animation. Both roles often collaborate in the same industry settings like gaming and film production.

What is 3D character animation?

3D character animation is the process of creating and manipulating digital characters in a three-dimensional space to make them move, act, and express emotions. Animators use specialized software to design characters, rig their skeletal structure, and animate their movements for films, video games, and other media. The goal is to bring characters to life in a way that is believable and engaging to the audience.
What are popular job titles related to 3D Character Animation jobs in California? For 3D Character Animation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Character Animation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Character Animation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for 3D Character Animation jobs? Cities in California with the most 3D Character Animation job openings:
3D Character Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Character Animation job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% 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 • On-site, Remote

Contractor

Re-posted 27 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