ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

3D Character Animation Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Roberts Recruiting, LLC

SDK Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

... 3D animation tools and pipelines Qualifications : Required : • BS in Computer Science • 5+ ... or interactive character design • A passion for human/computer interaction, art pipelines ...

All Jobs3D Character Animation Jobs3D Character Animation Jobs in Boston, MA

3D Character Animation information

See Boston, MA salary details

$33.7K

$69.4K

$143.9K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3d character animation in Boston, MA is $69,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,800.00 and $67,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to 3D Character Animation jobs in Boston, MA?

For 3D Character Animation jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 3D Character Animation jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for 3D Character Animation jobs in Boston, MA are:

3D Character Animation jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Character Animation job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,384 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

SDK Engineer

Roberts Recruiting, LLC

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
Roberts Recruiting, LLC is the creator of the world’s first social robot for the home, and they are looking for an SDK Engineer to join their SDK team. The role involves designing and developing core APIs and tools to support internal and third-party developers in creating content and skills for the robot.
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop, and deploy our core APIs, state-of-the-art web-based tools, and a packaged SDK that will enable internal and 3rd party developers to create and debug content (animations, graphics, sound) and skills (applications)
• Drive the design and development of robotics simulations, AI, debuggers, behavior editing tools, and 3D animation tools and pipelines
Qualifications:
Required:
• BS in Computer Science
• 5+ years of related work experience
• Demonstrated success bringing products to market
• Expertise in JavaScript (ES6/ES7), Node.js, and front-end development.
• Experience in one or more of the following: game AI, 3D engines, WebGL, scripting systems, tools programming, CMS, animation tools, data visualization
Preferred:
• Experience with TypeScript and C++
• Experience with Pixi.js, React.js, Adobe Animate
• Experience in gaming, interactive web apps, games (mobile, web, console, etc), or interactive character design
• A passion for human/computer interaction, art pipelines, content management tools, AI, simulations, and interactive character design and development
Company:
Roberts Recruiting, LLC is a contingency based boutique recruiting firm that specializes in the IT and Software Engineering market. Founded in 2014, the company is headquartered in Cambridge, USA, with a team of 2-10 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.

Apply