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Animation Environment Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IGT

Animator IV

Reno, NV

$105K - $120K/yr

Partner with cross-functional teams to define animation strategies, artistic direction, and final ... Play and evaluate games in studio test environments, Unity builds, and standalone game versions ...

Netflix

OR · On-site

$62.74/hr

... with traditional animation techniques. * Work closely with creative leadership to shape ... Contribute to the creation of short stories in a fast-paced, sprint-based production environment.

Arrow International, Inc.

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Must work well in a team environment Preferred Experience: * Gaming or casino-related knowledge or ... Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of Spine is considered a plus * Experience with 3D ...

Arrow International, Inc

Senior Artist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $156K/yr

Must work well in a team environment Preferred Experience: * Gaming or casino-related knowledge or ... Knowledge of animation principles. Usage of Spine is considered a plus * Experience with 3D ...

Epic Games

Technical Designer in Animation

Cary, NC · On-site

ART What We Do Push your artistic talent to the limit on a team of world-class environment ... Build animation behavior tools, techniques, and frameworks that enable complex systems and ...

Netflix

CG Artist, Experimental - INK

Los Gatos, CA

$62.74/hr

... animation techniques. Work closely with creative leadership to shape storytelling and visual ... Contribute to the creation of short stories in a fast-paced, sprint-based production environment.

Netflix

CG Artist, Experimental - INK

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$62.74/hr

... with traditional animation techniques. * Work closely with creative leadership to shape ... Contribute to the creation of short stories in a fast-paced, sprint-based production environment.

Netflix

CG Artist, Experimental - INK

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$62.74/hr

... with traditional animation techniques. * Work closely with creative leadership to shape ... Contribute to the creation of short stories in a fast-paced, sprint-based production environment.

Netflix

CG Artist, Experimental - INK

Los Angeles, CA

$62.74/hr

... animation techniques. Work closely with creative leadership to shape storytelling and visual ... Contribute to the creation of short stories in a fast-paced, sprint-based production environment.

Salt Lake Community College

Adjunct, Animation

UT · On-site

Visual Arts & Design Opening Date: 07/15/2025 Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Mountain FLSA ... A respectful work environment is its top priority; academic excellence and lasting transformation ...

Fox

Producer, AI Animation - FoxNXT

Los Angeles, CA

$114K - $152K/yr

Manage vendors, artists, and cross functional teams across animation production * Track progress, identify risks, and resolve production challenges in a fast evolving environment * Ensure consistency ...

CD PROJEKT RED

Senior Animation Programmer

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$118K - $217K/yr

... artists, and gameplay engineers. This role is key to bringing the world and characters to life ... environment, and developing realistic character reactions for deep narrative sequences. Daily ...

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Animation Environment Artist information

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$5

$29

$37

How much do animation environment artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for animation environment artist in the United States is $29.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Animation Environment Artists?

Animation Environment Artists are professionals who design and create the surrounding settings and backgrounds in animated movies, TV shows, or video games. They use digital tools to build realistic or stylized environments that help tell the story and immerse the audience in the animated world. Their work involves collaborating with other artists, directors, and animators to ensure the environments fit the artistic vision and technical requirements of the project.

How much does a 3D environment artist make?

A 3D environment artist's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level artists may earn less, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or with specialized skills can earn higher salaries.

What do environment artists do?

Environment artists create the visual backgrounds and settings for animations, video games, or films by designing and building 3D models, textures, and environments using tools like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine. They focus on creating immersive worlds that support the story and gameplay, often collaborating with concept artists and technical teams. Strong artistic skills, knowledge of modeling, texturing, and lighting are essential for this role.

How to get hired as an environment artist?

To get hired as an environment artist, develop a strong portfolio showcasing 3D environment work using tools like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine. Gain experience through internships, freelance projects, or personal work, and demonstrate knowledge of lighting, composition, and texturing. A relevant degree or certification in art, design, or related fields can also improve your chances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Animation Environment Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animation Environment Artist, you need expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, lighting, and a solid understanding of environmental design principles, often supported by a degree in art, animation, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Substance Painter, and game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity is typically expected. Strong artistic vision, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with other artists and teams are vital soft skills. These abilities are crucial for creating immersive, visually compelling environments that enhance storytelling and overall production quality.

What is the salary of 3D environment artist per month?

A 3D environment artist's monthly salary typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level artists may earn less, while experienced professionals working on high-end projects or in competitive markets can earn higher salaries. Skills in software like Maya, Blender, or Unreal Engine can also influence compensation.

What is the difference between Animation Environment Artist vs Environment Artist?

AspectAnimation Environment ArtistEnvironment Artist
Primary FocusCreating animated backgrounds and environments for scenesDesigning static or dynamic environments for games or films
Skills & ToolsAnimation, 3D modeling, texturing, animation softwareModeling, texturing, environment design, landscape creation
Work EnvironmentVFX studios, game development, animation studiosGame studios, film production, architectural visualization

Animation Environment Artists focus on creating animated backgrounds and scenes, often requiring animation skills. Environment Artists design detailed static or dynamic environments without necessarily animating them. Both roles work in similar industries but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets, with Animation Environment Artists emphasizing animation techniques and Environment Artists concentrating on environment design and modeling.

What are some common challenges Animation Environment Artists face when working on large-scale projects?

Animation Environment Artists often encounter challenges with maintaining consistency and quality across vast, complex environments, especially when multiple team members contribute assets. Balancing creative vision with technical constraints, such as polygon budgets and optimization for rendering, is also a frequent hurdle. Close collaboration with concept artists, modelers, and technical directors is essential to ensure the environments not only look visually compelling but also function seamlessly within the animation pipeline. Being adaptable and having strong communication skills help overcome these challenges and contribute to successful project outcomes.
Animator IV

Animator IV

IGT

Reno, NV

$105K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

IGT rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

IGT, where innovation meets entertainment on a global scale!  From the casino floor to your mobile screen, we deliver thrilling, responsible, and unforgettable gaming experiences-powered by worldclass content, strong technical and commercial capabilities and nurtured by a culture of collaboration, accountability, and ownership.

 

Whether it's spinning reels, placing bets, or enabling secure payments, we turn innovation into impact through disciplined execution and longterm value creation. With a team of over 6,000 employees across 30+ countries and products delivered in more than 100 jurisdictions worldwide, we operate at scale while staying closely connected to costumers we serve. If you're ready to bring your talent to a team shaping the future of entertainment, your next big move starts here - www.igt.com.

Overview

Step into a lead role within IGT's Vibe Game Studio in Reno, Nevada, as an Animator IV, where your creativity, technical expertise, and artistic vision will help shape both our next generation of games and the culture of innovation within the studio. In this senior-level role, you will lead animation efforts from concept to final implementation, establishing the visual tone and quality standards for groundbreaking gaming experiences while mentoring and elevating fellow animators.

Working closely with Game Designers, Engineers, Technical Artists, and Art peers, you will drive a collaborative and holistic approach to game development that pushes the boundaries of casino gaming entertainment. Your contributions will directly support IGT's mission to pioneer the future of gaming by creating animations that captivate players, enhance gameplay, and deliver memorable experiences.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Create and lead the development of complex animations and dynamic visual effects for EGM (Electronic Gaming Machine) development, including both real-time and pre-rendered content.
  • Drive and collaborate on the creative vision for animation across multiple game development projects, establishing high standards for quality, style, and player engagement.
  • Develop storyboards, animatics, and gameplay sequences that maximize excitement and enhance the overall player experience.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to define animation strategies, artistic direction, and final animation assets that align with gameplay and narrative goals.
  • Spearhead the creation of specialized animation techniques supporting advanced game mechanics such as progressive bonuses, jackpots, immersive bonus rounds, and attract sequences.
  • Mentor and coach junior animators, helping them refine their artistic skills and technical expertise while fostering a culture of growth and collaboration.
  • Review and provide feedback on animation assets from peers and junior team members to ensure successful integration into the game engine and adherence to visual and performance standards.
  • Play and evaluate games in studio test environments, Unity builds, and standalone game versions, providing constructive feedback to elevate animation quality and player impact.
  • Innovate new animation workflows, tools, and techniques, incorporating advanced visual effects such as particle systems and motion graphics to enhance gameplay experiences.
  • Ensure all animations maintain the intended tone, atmosphere, and visual integrity of the game experience, making adjustments and providing direction as needed.
  • Collaborate closely with Game Designers, Technical Artists, and Art peers to conceptualize animation sequences that strengthen storytelling, gameplay clarity, and player interaction.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Animation, Art, Game Design, or a related field - or equivalent professional experience.
  • 8+ years of professional animation experience, including at least 5 years focused on game development.
  • Proven success leading animation projects or mentoring teams within the gaming industry, particularly in EGMs or other real-time interactive experiences.
  • Strong demo reel showcasing visual storytelling, choreography, timing, and mastery of animation principles across effects, symbols, environments, and gameplay sequences.
  • Expert-level proficiency in 2D and 3D animation tools such as After Effects, Spine, Maya, and Blender.
  • Experience creating and implementing real-time animations in Unity.
  • Strong understanding of EGM-specific animation elements including reel spins, transitions, base and bonus features, math screens, attract sequences, and jackpot effects.
  • Familiarity with slot game or casino gaming animation pipelines, including integration into proprietary game engines and development platforms.
  • Exceptional attention to detail in animation principles, movement, composition, and timing within fast-paced production environments.
  • Animation test required as part of the interview process.
Keys to Success

 Building collaborative relationships
Decision making
Drive results
Foster innovation
Personal energy
Self-leadership
#LI-CK1

At IGT, we believe compensation should be as individual as you are, reflecting your skills, experience, background, and location. For this role, the starting compensation range is $117,400 to $145,450, with flexibility to adjust higher or lower based on the full scope of qualifications. We proudly comply with all applicable local pay transparency laws and collective bargaining agreements.

And compensation is just the beginning. Our Total Rewards program is designed to support your success, both professionally and personally, and may include:

  • Commission opportunities for eligible sales roles
  • Discretionary bonus potential for non-sales positions
  • Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance
  • A 401(k) Savings Plan with company contributions to help you plan for the future
  • Tuition reimbursement to support continued learning and growth
  • Paid time off to rest, recharge, and reset
  • Wellness programs that support your overall well-being
  • Identity theft protection for added peace of mind

What IGT employees say

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Benefits

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About IGT

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

IGTis a global leader in gaming. We deliver entertaining and responsible gaming experiences for players across all channels and regulated segments, from Lotteries and Gaming Machines to Sports Betting and Digital. Leveraging a wealth of compelling content, substantial investment in innovation, player insights, operational expertise, and leading-edge technology, our solutions deliver unrivaled gaming experiences that engage players and drive growth. We have a well-established local presence and relationships with governments and regulators in more than 100 countries around the world, and create value by adhering to the highest standards of service, integrity, and responsibility.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

London, Greater London, GB

Social media

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