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Animation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TechLink Systems

Flash - Animator

Torrance, CA · On-site

... animation and mobile content, and in object-oriented designed methodologies and programming languages is a must (e.g. ActionScript, CSV, XML, and HTML5, etc.) Bachelor's degree or equivalent in ...

TechLink Systems

Flash - Animator

Torrance, CA · On-site

... animation and mobile content, and in object-oriented designed methodologies and programming languages is a must (e.g. ActionScript, CSV, XML, and HTML5, etc.) Bachelor's degree or equivalent in ...

Epic Games

Animation Systems Programmer

Larkspur, CA · On-site

$167K - $245K/yr

What You'll Do Epic Games is looking for an experienced Animation Systems Programmer for our Special Projects team. As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in driving future projects ...

Mattel

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$112K - $128K/yr

Mattel Studios is seeking a Sr. Manager, Adult & Four-Quad TV Animation to help drive the development and execution of a slate of premium animated programming based on Mattel's dynamic portfolio of ...

Mattel

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA

$112K - $128K/yr

Mattel Studios is seeking a Sr. Manager, Adult & Four-Quad TV Animation to help drive the development and execution of a slate of premium animated programming based on Mattel's dynamic portfolio of ...

Mattel

Sr Manager, TV Animation

El Segundo, CA

$112K - $128K/yr

Mattel Studios is seeking a Sr. Manager, Adult & Four-Quad TV Animation to help drive the development and execution of a slate of premium animated programming based on Mattel's dynamic portfolio of ...

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All JobsAnimation Engineer JobsAnimation Engineer Jobs in California

Animation Engineer information

See California salary details

$79.9K

$143.5K

$202.3K

How much do animation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for animation engineer in California is $143,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animation engineer?

An Animation Engineer is a technical specialist who develops and optimizes animation systems for video games, films, and interactive media. They work closely with animators and software developers to create smooth, efficient, and realistic animations using programming languages, game engines, and animation tools. Their responsibilities often include developing animation rigs, physics-based movement, and real-time character interactions. Strong coding skills, knowledge of animation principles, and experience with tools like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine are essential for this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an animation engineer?

As an Animation Engineer, your day-to-day tasks often include developing and optimizing animation systems, collaborating with animators and designers to implement new features, and troubleshooting technical issues related to character or object animation. You may also write scripts and tools to streamline animation workflows or assist in integrating animations into game engines or production software. Regular communication with both artistic and technical team members is essential to ensure that animations look and perform as intended. This collaborative environment supports innovation and continuous improvement, making each project engaging and dynamic.

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

To thrive as an Animation Engineer, you need strong programming skills—often in C++, Python, and graphics APIs—paired with a solid understanding of computer graphics, mathematics, and animation principles. Proficiency with tools like Maya, Unity, Unreal Engine, and experience working with animation pipelines or real-time rendering systems are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and clear communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure seamless integration of technical and artistic requirements, efficient collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and the creation of high-quality animated experiences.

What does an animation engineer do?

An animation engineer designs and develops algorithms, tools, and systems to create and optimize animations for video games, films, or virtual environments. They often work with programming languages like C++ or Python and collaborate with artists and designers to ensure smooth, realistic motion and visual effects. Strong technical skills and knowledge of animation principles are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animation Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Animation Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Animation Engineer jobs in California?

For Animation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animation Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Animation Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Animation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Animation Engineer job openings:

Animation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 12% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,455 per year, or $69 per hour.

Senior Real-Time Animation Engineer - Simulations & ML (Cupertino)

Apple Inc.

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$172K - $305K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 680 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

A leading technology company is seeking a Senior Simulation Animation Engineer to develop innovative simulations and generate synthetic data. The ideal candidate should have strong C++ skills, experience in real-time animation systems, and a collaborative spirit. Responsibilities include designing animations, integrating motion capture data, and optimizing animation features across platforms. This position offers comprehensive benefits and competitive compensation based on qualifications and experience, with a salary range of $172,100 to $305,600.
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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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